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Brian Kirwan
17 articles

Biafra Invader

May 20, 2021 · in Aviation · · 12 · 1.4K
This article is part of a series:
  1. Biafra Invader
  2. Mobutu's Mirage V in 1:48

Here is an Italeri 1:72 A26B , 1967.

The standard A26B was modified to represent the unique nose, the a/c had been used in France as a radar calibration/survey a/c. I had to improvise for the colours and decals. Both the rudder markings and the shark's mouth being a mix of spray painting and decals.

This was the colorful Johnny Zumbach's mount in the early stages of the ill-fated Biafran secession attempt. This is one of two Invaders operated by the Biafrans with help from their friends. Inspired by the Helion Publishing title "Biafra- The Nigerian Civil War 1967-1970” It's my second African Invader, the other being the Congolese A26K. Apparently there is also a B25 to be made in these colours but I have to find out more info.

Reader reactions:
6  Awesome

12 responses

  1. Interesting bird with that nose! I really like the scheme - makes for a nice, unusual Invader. Well done.

  2. Unusual it is indeed, Brian.
    I like that a lot and the mouth does add something special.
    Well done.

  3. Interesting scheme on an interesting version of the airplane. Last stand of the Free Polish pilots.

  4. Interesting subject Brian, nicely done.

  5. What a great project, my friend @info4!
    Excellent build and I love the scheme!
    I love those "less common" schemes: usually they carry quite interesting stories for the planes which worn them, as is the case here.
    Looking forward to your B-25!
    P.S. Any pics of your Congolese A26?

  6. 🙂 ... Greetings ... 🙂 :
    A very interesting and rare looking Invader model Brian.
    The camouflage alone is a total standout, and yet add
    to it the facial markings and the nose detail, you have a good attention screaming model.

  7. Gents
    Thanks for all the kind comments I am glad you liked it.

    For those interested in the Biafran conflict I see that Helion &Company have just released a new title about the Biafran Army featuring the A26 on the cover and rereleased their original "BIAFRA
    The Nigerian Civil War 1967-1970 " featuring artwork of the B25 on the cover.
    I have the original release of the latter (without artwork) but have yet to get my hands on a copy of the former but these Africa at War series are quiet good and its not a subject widely covered.

    kind regards
    Brian

  8. Great job on a great subject, Brian!

  9. Sorry to bring back an old post but I've just joined and found this article. Great interest in African Conflicts, Biafra, Congo, etc.
    Your Invader is great! I built one several years back. These kind of builds are not found often. You've done a wonderful job and given some great info as well. Nice to find someone with the same modeling passion.
    Again, great subject, beautifuly done.
    Paul

  10. Thanks Paul glad you like it. I actually have more African stuff which I have to post on here amongst others Biafra B25. Been rather busy ...

    regards
    Brian

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