Spitfire Mk.IXe F/O Johnnie Houlton

Made by Hobby Master this is a highly detailed diecast model that measures approximately 19.7cm long with a wingspan of 23.4cm
Limited release: Yes
Production: Limited only 500 units worldwide
Scale: 1/48
Includes stand: Yes
Squadron: P485 (NZ) Squadron, France, Sept 1944
Markings:  RAF
Interchangeable/retractable landing gear
Pre-painted
Pilot figure
Pad applied markings.
Fully assembled.
Option to display model with wheels up or down.
Minimum use of plastic
 
HISTORY:
 
The Mk. IX replaced the Mk. V in June 1942 
On September 12, 1942 a Mk. IX brought down a Ju-86R flying at 43,000 feet
Another major achievement of the Mk. IX took place on October 5, 1944 when 401 Squadron became the first allied aircraft to shoot down an Me-262 jet.
Even with the arrival of the Griffon powered Mk. XIV the Mk. IX continued in service until the end of WWII
There were 5,665 Mk. IX Spitfires and its variants produced.
In April 1944 Spitfire Mk. IXe ML407 was built at Castle Bromwich and delivered to the RNZAF 485 Squadron on April 29, 1944 based at ALG Selsey, Sussex. RNZAF 485 Squadron was the first New Zealand squadron to be formed and it was placed under RAF command. On D-Day this aircraft shot down the first enemy aircraft, a Ju-88 over Omaha Beach. The pilot was F/O Johnnie Houlton whose final tally was 7 kills and 4 damaged. In September 1944 the registration ML407 was added to the fuselage.