This is my build diary for the "RAF 100" competition.

The build will be of the "Tamiya" 1:48 scale Fairey Swordfish Mk1.

Colours and insignia will be from the Bismark Attack as flown by Lieutenant A.W.D Beale

Etch and gauge decals will be added from Eduard.

Tamiya paints will be used as recommended in the instructions.



Below is some brief information on the Swordfish:

The Fairey Swordfish was a biplane torpedo bomber designed by the Fairey Aviation Company. Originating in the early 1930s, the Swordfish, nicknamed "Stringbag", was operated by the Fleet Air Arm of the Royal Navy, in addition to having been equipped by the Royal Air Force (RAF) alongside multiple overseas operators, including the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) and the Royal Netherlands Navy. It was initially operated primarily as a fleet attack aircraft; during its later years, the Swordfish became increasingly used as an anti-submarine and training platform. The type was in frontline service throughout the Second World War, but it was already considered obsolescent at the outbreak of the conflict in 1939.

Nonetheless, the Swordfish achieved some spectacular successes during the war; notable events included a flight of the type sinking one battleship and damaging two others of the Regia Marina (the Italian Navy) during the Battle of Taranto, and the famous attack on the Bismarck, which contributed to her eventual demise. By the end of the war, the Swordfish held the distinction of having caused the destruction of a greater tonnage of Axis shipping than any other Allied aircraft. The Swordfish remained in front-line service until V-E Day, having outlived multiple aircraft that had been intended to replace it in service.

Pictures attached below are of the box artwork and the brass etch.

Will update with the box opening soon.

Regards
delboy271155
(Derek)

Nice model, good luck Derek. I look forward to following this

Mark

OMG That`s some awesome footage.



Thanks for posting.

Regards
delboy271155
(Derek)

Never seen this kit built up before looks a great looking kit will be following regards Phil

Should look great with all that etch good luck with the build.

Al

Hi all,

Many thanks for your messages of support,info and ideas.



Very close to making a start with this, as have today received two more items in the post.

1: The Tamiya "Bracing wire set" (Pic 1), scary bit is that it says for "EXPERTS"

Definition of an expert: Ex - something that was
Spurt - A "drip" under pressure




2: A cracking "How to" book on the kit (Pic 2). Thanks Jase for the heads up on this one. It`s got some great pics of a Swordfish, with some excellent tips on some finer detailing tips that I`ll attempt later.


So Where am I with this ?

Some paints/washes etc to source, fishing line to get from the local tackle shop and working on an idea for a display base.

As soon as paints/washes sourced and with the workspace cleared, it will be all systems go.

See below todays deliveries.

Regards
delboy271155
(Derek)

Wings will be opened because of the display idea I have and as with your Walrus it`s one or the other.

Thanks for your interest.

Regards
delboy271155
(Derek)

Lots of paint there, have fun