Airfix de Havilland Chipmunk T.10/T.20 1:48 Plastic Kit

This meticulously crafted 1:48 scale model of the de Havilland Chipmunk T.10/T.20 includes 84 precisely moulded plastic components, enabling enthusiasts to assemble one of three genuine paint schemes. The Chipmunk, an aircraft pivotal in training countless pilots and providing experience flights to many more, succeeded the esteemed Tiger Moth in this crucial role from 1950 onwards. As one of the RAF's longest-serving aircraft, the Chipmunk continues to offer training and currency support for the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight's pilots.

Key Features

• 84 precision plastic components for an accurate assembly
• 1:48 scale with a wingspan of 217mm
• Includes three genuine paint schemes
• Suitable for modellers aged 8 and up
• Skill level 2 - perfect for developing modellers

History

The de Havilland Chipmunk was introduced in the post-war era as a primary trainer aircraft, designed to modernise pilot instruction across the Commonwealth and beyond. First taking to the skies in May 1946, the Chipmunk was crafted by de Havilland Canada to replace the outdated Tiger Moth, providing enhanced performance, improved visibility, and more modern handling, better equipping student pilots for transitioning to contemporary aircraft.

Equipped with a de Havilland Gipsy Major engine, the Chipmunk featured a sturdy tandem two-seat layout with dual controls, allowing instructors to demonstrate techniques while retaining full control. Its forgiving flight characteristics, coupled with sufficient performance for teaching advanced manoeuvres, made it an ideal training platform for a new generation of aviators.

The Royal Air Force adopted the Chipmunk T.10 in 1950, quickly establishing it as the standard primary trainer across RAF flying training schools. The type served with distinction for over three decades in this role, introducing countless young pilots to the fundamentals of military aviation. The T.20 variant was developed for civilian use, becoming popular for air experience flights, flying clubs, and private owners who appreciated its reliability and classic handling.

Remarkably, the Chipmunk remains in limited RAF service today, with several examples operated by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. These cherished aircraft provide currency training for pilots maintaining their tailwheel endorsements and offer air experience flights to cadets and fortunate members of the public, continuing a training tradition that spans over seven decades.

BAE SYSTEMS is a registered trade mark of BAE Systems plc.