{"product_id":"airfix-a07117-westland-lysander-mk-iii-special-duties","title":"A07117 - Airfix - Westland Lysander Mk.III Special Duties","description":"\u003csection class=\"section section--pattern-grey\" id=\"theModel\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"container\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"grid grid--1-col@medium\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"grid__item grid__item--60\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis remarkable 1:48 scale model kit of the Westland Lysander Mk.III Special Duties aircraft consists of 197 parts and provides an accurate depiction of one of the RAF's most audacious aircraft used in secret operations. Ideal for modellers aged 8 and up with intermediate skills, this kit replicates the unique alterations made to about 40 Lysander communication planes in 1941 for covert missions aiding the French Resistance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e197 piece model kit at 1:48 scale with 316mm wingspan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSkill level 3 - suitable for intermediate modellers aged 8 years and above\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThree authentic paint schemes included\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrecise depiction of Special Duties modifications including external fuel tank and access ladder\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWorld War Two era RAF aircraft\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDetailed features including modified gunner's compartment with rear-sliding canopy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRepresents unarmed variant configured for secret agent transport operations\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHistory\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1941, the RAF set a requirement for the modification of around 40 Westland Lysander communication aircraft to undertake a new secretive role, termed 'Special Duties'. The aircraft were stripped of defensive weaponry and had their range extended by installing a larger internal oil tank and an external 150-gallon fuel tank beneath the fuselage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe gunner's section was altered with the addition of a rear-sliding single-piece canopy, allowing space for up to three individuals. A sturdy ladder was attached to the port-side fuselage, enabling swift boarding and disembarking for passengers during their new 'Spy Taxi' missions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFlying under the cover of night and with the assistance of the French Resistance, specialised crews courageously piloted these unarmed planes across the English Channel, transporting agents at significant personal risk to all involved. These operations were vital to the eventual success of the Second World War.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 1:48 scale Westland Lysander model kit is an excellent addition to your workbench, enhancing any military aircraft collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"grid__item grid__item--40\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"section section--default\" id=\"whatsInside\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"container\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"heading--3\"\u003eWhat's Inside\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"grid grid--2-col\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"grid__item wysiwyg\"\u003ePlastic model kit, instruction sheet, paint layout sheet and decals.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e","brand":"Airfix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53857625604435,"sku":"A07117","price":39.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1028\/2985\/0963\/files\/Harburn_A07116.jpg?v=1780573433","url":"https:\/\/www.harburnhobbies.co.uk\/products\/airfix-a07117-westland-lysander-mk-iii-special-duties","provider":"Harburn Hobbies","version":"1.0","type":"link"}