Corgi: 1/72 Tornado F.3: RAF ‘Desperation’ – Diecast Model

The successful liberation of the Falkland Islands from invading Argentine forces in June 1982 was a triumph of logistics, determination and the sheer bravery of Britain’s military personnel. It did, however, clearly illustrate the vulnerability of this British Overseas Territory to attack and a permanent defensive presence would be required in the future. Central to this plan would be the protection of the airspace above the Islands and the exclusion zone beyond, but in the months following the end of the conflict, this air defence task would be the responsibility of the available Harrier GR.3 ground attack aircraft of the Royal Air Force.

The unsuitable runway at Port Stanley would require significant upgrade before any dedicated RAF air defence fighters could be stationed there, but as the work neared completion, the McDonnell Douglas Phantom FGR2s of No.29 Squadron prepared to embark on their transit to the South Atlantic. Arriving in October 1982, the Islands now had a dedicated air defence force. After ten years of steadfast service, the Phantoms were replaced by Britain’s latest air superiority fighter the Panavia Tornado F.3 in 1992, which in turn went on to defend the Falkland Islanders for the next seventeen years.

Features:

• Armament/Weapons
• Detailed Crew Figure(s)
• Fuel TanksFuel Tanks
• Moveable Sweeping Wings
• Opening Canopy
• Optional Undercarriage Down

Specifics:

• Scale: 1:72
• LE Szie: 885
• Wingspan: 193mm
• Age Suitability: 14+

Corgi's famous model vehicles captured the imagination of millions of baby boomers and, what were once simply toys for boys, are highly sought-after in the expanding collectables market.