Tamiya 31910 - 1/700 Royal Australian Navy Destroyer Vampire  [31910]

Tamiya 1/700 Royal Australian Navy Destroyer Vampire Model Kit

The Tamiya 1/700 scale model of the Royal Australian Navy Destroyer Vampire offers an intriguing glimpse into the storied past of this historic naval vessel. Originally constructed in Britain during World War I, the HMAS Vampire served both the British and Australian navies, playing a significant role during World War II. This model captures the essence of the ship's service history, making it a compelling addition for collectors and model builders interested in naval history.

Historical Significance of the HMAS Vampire

The HMAS Vampire was initially part of the British Royal Navy before its transfer to the Royal Australian Navy in 1933. It notably participated in the Mediterranean theater and later joined the British Navy's Force Z in Singapore. The ship was present during the Battle of Malaya, witnessing the sinking of both the Prince of Wales and Repulse by Japanese aircraft. Despite these losses, the Vampire continued its operations until it was ultimately sunk in 1942 alongside HMS Hermes off the coast of Ceylon.

Model Features and Display Opportunities

This 1/700 scale model kit by Tamiya is designed for precision and realism, offering polycaps for free rotation of main gun positions and torpedo launchers. Such features allow for dynamic display options that enhance the model's visual appeal. High-quality decals are included for accurate ship markings, along with a flag sheet, which adds authenticity to the model.

Display and Collection Potential

The HMAS Vampire model can be showcased alongside other ships from Force Z, such as the British Battleship Prince of Wales and the Battle Cruiser Repulse, to recreate historical naval scenes. This makes it not only a standalone piece but also a valuable component of a larger collection depicting significant WWII naval engagements.