This is the recently released Airfix 1:24 scale Spitfire MK IX. Airfix has a MK II version of the aircraft, but that’s a very old kit released back in the 1970s. This is a brand new tooled kit and is extremely impressive. The Merlin engine alone is worth the price of admission. Sadly it’s not perfect, there are sink marks on the instrument panel, and some of the IP gauge decals are too big for their bezels. I’ve already designed a 3D printable replacement part that should correct that in future builds on this same kit. Beyond a few little flaws, this is definitely an amazing kit, but not for the beginner.
The lower photos show the finished model. All national markings and unit codes were painted using masks created in Illustrator and cut on a digital cutter.
Click images below for details.
Cockpit showing instrument panel, pedals, and control column, as well as landing gear controls.
Cockpit minus seat and Frame 11.
Instrument Panel
Seat and Frame 11 added. The Sutton Harness is made from paper and brass.
Seat and Frame 11 added. The Sutton Harness is made from paper and brass.
Port side cockpit sidewall with throttle and compressed air tanks. The compressed air was used to operate pneumatic systems such as the landing gear.
Merlin engine mount.
Merlin engine mount.
Merlin engine.
Merlin engine. Quarter coin included for scale.
Fuselage halves in place with seam filling putty applied.
Fuselage halves in place with seam filling putty applied.
Fuselage halves in place with seam filling putty applied.
Fuselage with firewall and lower wings attached.
Fuselage with firewall and lower wings attached. The internal wing detail is included should the builder want to open up the gun bays.
