Bristol Blenheim Mk.1F (Airfix 1/72)

The Blenheim was a victim of the rapid pace of aircraft development during the latter half of the 1930s. when it first took to the air as a light bomber in 1935 it was faster than the biplane fighters of the day, but by the beginning of WW2 it was outclassed by the newer all-metal monoplanes, such as the Bf 109 and Bf 110, that it would be pitted against. Even when configured as a fighter, it was hard-pressed to out-pace the modern German bombers. However, during the dark days of the spring and early summer of 1940 every effort had to be made to keep the enemy at bay.

The subject of this model, L8679, flew with No. 600 (city of London) Squadron, based a Manston in Kent and was piloted by F/O le Rougetel wit Sgt Smith as Observer/Gunner. On the evening of 9th August 1940, whilst on patrol near Margate, it "got into difficulty" and the crew had to bale out. Several different accounts exist for the loss of this aircraft, ranging from being shot down, hit by Allied (friendly) flak or engine failure. Both crew members were rescued and, interesting to note, both survived the war.

From the kit perspective, the most challenging aspect was the multi-part clear nose section, but it all fitted together well in the end. While painting the underside, I experimented with different shades of the Duck Egg Green to show the effect of weathering. the exhaust stains were done with soft pastels. On the upper surfaces I used oil dots to show some weathering and grime.

I noticed, when reviewing the photos, that the flat spot on one of the tyres was not where it should be!

6 additional images. Click to enlarge.