Airfix 1/48 Scale Fairey Gannet AS.1/AS.4 - A11007

This 1:48 scale model kit showcases the Fairey Gannet AS.1/AS.4, a standout aircraft from the Fleet Air Arm. Comprising 334 parts and offering three livery options, this Skill Level 4 kit provides seasoned modellers the opportunity to build a detailed replica of the innovative turboprop-powered anti-submarine hunter-killer. With a wingspan measuring 344mm, this model represents the sole post-war military contract secured by the renowned Fairey Aviation Company, designed to address the Soviet submarine threat during the Cold War.

Key Features

• 334 component kit presenting a challenging build for seasoned modellers
• Skill Level 4 - appropriate for ages 8 and up
• Includes three distinctive livery options
• 1:48 scale with a wingspan of 344mm
• Detailed depiction of the unique Double Mamba engine configuration
• Accurately recreated bi-folding wing mechanism
• Complete anti-submarine equipment and weaponry options

History

The Fairey Gannet, recognised as one of the most distinctive aircraft to serve with the Fleet Air Arm, was both unique and capable, marking the only post-war military contract won by the esteemed Fairey Aviation Company. Considered the most unconventional design by Fairey to reach full production, the Gannet was developed in response to a 1945 Royal Navy call for a sophisticated carrier-based, turboprop-powered anti-submarine hunter-killer, robust enough for maritime operations. Designed to counter the expansion of the Soviet submarine fleet at the Cold War's onset, the Gannet was fitted with state-of-the-art electronic detection systems and could identify, track, and engage enemy submarines using bombs, depth charges, rockets, and air-launched acoustic torpedoes. A notable feature was its powerplant, the innovative Armstrong Siddeley Double Mamba. This configuration consisted of two gas turbine engines placed side by side in the nose, sharing a common gearbox but functioning independently, each driving its own coaxial, contra-rotating propeller. The engines could operate on kerosene or diesel fuel, which was safer and less refined than traditional aviation fuels. This arrangement provided sufficient power for carrier operations and the assurance of two engines for extended ocean patrols. During flight, the pilot could shut down one engine to save fuel, which reduced maximum speed but increased loiter time. Pilots typically alternated engine use during lengthy patrols, running each for about an hour before switching, with the port engine driving the front propeller. Another distinctive design element was the bi-folding wing system, enabling this large aircraft to operate safely and be stored on the Royal Navy's relatively small carriers. When the pilot activated the wing unfold, the system prepared the wings for flight and automatically connected all flight controls, hydraulics, and fuel lines without ground crew assistance. Reports indicate the Gannet was so robust that one aircraft, after losing the outer sections of both wings during a violent manoeuvre, still managed to return safely to its carrier, further endearing it to crews. The Fairey Gannet proved to be a durable and highly effective anti-submarine aircraft, capable of carrying a formidable array of offensive ordnance and engaging submarines both on the surface and submerged. Favoured by air and ground crews alike, 348 Gannets were produced. In addition to serving Britain's Fleet Air Arm, the aircraft also served with the navies of Australia, Germany, and Indonesia.