Handley Page Hampden Bomber Aircraft (Level 2) 1/72 Plastic Model Kit by Airfix

Brand new plastic model kit of Handley Page Hampden Bomber Aircraft (Level 2) 1/72 plastic model kit by Airfix. Brand new box. Vintage style packaging. Officially licensed product. Contains 123 detailed parts. Does NOT include display stand. Paint and cement required (not included). Manufacturer's original unopened packaging. Parts molded in Light Gray, unless otherwise indicated. Dimensions approximately L-8.875, W-11.5 inches assembled. HISTORY ASPECTS: The Handley Page Hampden, affectionately nicknamed the "Flying Suitcase" due to its narrow fuselage, was a British twin-engine medium bomber developed in the late 1930s. Entering service with the Royal Air Force (RAF) in 1938, the Hampden was part of Britain’s first generation of monoplane bombers, alongside the Wellington and Whitley. Powered by two Bristol Pegasus radial engines, the Hampden boasted a top speed of approximately 260 mph and a range of nearly 1,000 miles, making it suitable for long-range bombing missions during the early years of World War II. During the war, the Hampden was primarily used by RAF Bomber Command in the early strategic bombing campaign against Germany. It participated in some of the first bombing raids on industrial targets and cities, including the infamous raid on Wilhelmshaven in 1939. The aircraft’s relatively high speed and maneuverability for its class allowed it to evade enemy fighters during nighttime operations, although its limited defensive armament and crew exposure made it vulnerable in daylight missions. The Hampden was also instrumental in laying naval mines in enemy shipping lanes, a critical component of Britain’s effort to disrupt German supply chains. As newer and more capable bombers like the Avro Lancaster and Handley Page Halifax entered service, the Hampden was gradually relegated to secondary roles. Many were converted into torpedo bombers and served with Coastal Command, conducting anti-shipping operations in the North Sea and Atlantic. Despite its early limitations, the Hampden played a vital role in the RAF’s transition to modern air warfare and demonstrated the importance of versatility in aircraft design during a time of rapidly evolving military technology. This 1:72 scale model captures the distinctive silhouette and historical significance of this early WWII bomber. Featuring detailed markings, precise craftsmanship, and a realistic design, it’s the perfect piece for aviation enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate the aircraft that helped lay the foundation for strategic bombing.