Tamiya 60756 - 1/72 Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Vb/Trop  [60756]

About the Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Vb/Trop

The Supermarine Spitfire stands as one of the most iconic aircraft in aviation history, with over 20,000 units produced from 1936 to 1948. The Mk.V series, particularly the Mk.Vb, became a staple of the Royal Air Force, renowned for its superior combat capabilities. By early 1941, the Mk.I was the standard fighter, but pilots pushed for enhancements that led to the adoption of the more powerful Merlin type 45 engine.

The Mk.Vb variant featured a mixed armament configuration, incorporating four 7.7mm machine guns and two 20mm cannons, enhancing its versatility in combat. To improve performance at low altitudes, some Mk.Vb models were equipped with clipped wings. In 1942, the need for a version suited for overseas operations led to the development of the "TROP." variant, designed specifically for North African conditions. This adaptation included a Vokes air filter to protect the engine from sand, although initial designs impacted speed. A streamlined solution was later developed by the 103rd maintenance unit at Aboukir.

Throughout World War II, the Spitfire underwent numerous modifications, serving effectively across various battlefronts. It remains a celebrated symbol of aerial engineering and wartime resilience.