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Description
- Brand new 1/48 scale diecast model of Panavia Tornado GR.1 Aircraft “Johnnie Walker ‘Still Going Strong’, No. 9 Squadron” (1998) British Royal Air Force “The Aviation Archive” Series die cast model by Corgi.
- Brand new box.
- Detailed exterior.
- Has landing gear.
- True-to-scale detail.
- Has opening canopy.
- Detailed crew figures.
- Includes display stand.
- Officially licensed product.
- Includes missile accessories.
- Manufacturer’s original unopened packaging.
- Dimensions approximately Length- 14, Wingspan- 11.5 inches.
- Diecast metal and plastic construction for durability and a heavy, realistic feel.
- It is a highly detailed and accurate model, perfect for collectors and enthusiasts of military history.
- Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels, and surface details for an authentic representation of the real-life airplane.
HISTORY ASPECTS:
The Panavia Tornado GR.1, ZD748/AK, famously adorned with the “Johnnie Walker ‘Still Going Strong'” livery, served with distinction in RAF No. 9 Squadron, known as the “Bats.” This aircraft became a symbol of the Tornado’s versatility and effectiveness during its service, particularly during the Gulf War and subsequent operations. Introduced in the early 1980s, the Tornado GR.1 was a multi-role combat aircraft developed by the UK, Germany, and Italy. It was designed for deep strike missions, electronic warfare, and close air support, and it quickly became the backbone of NATO’s tactical air force. No. 9 Squadron played a crucial role in utilizing the Tornado’s capabilities to their fullest extent.
During the Gulf War in 1991, ZD748/AK was part of Operation Granby, the British contribution to the coalition forces’ efforts to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi occupation. The Tornado GR.1s, including ZD748/AK, undertook high-risk low-level bombing missions against heavily defended Iraqi airfields, radar sites, and other strategic targets. These missions demonstrated the Tornado’s ability to deliver precision strikes at low altitudes and high speeds, often flying through intense anti-aircraft fire and surface-to-air missile threats. The aircraft’s robust build and advanced avionics enabled it to perform admirably in these challenging conditions, establishing the Tornado’s reputation as a formidable strike platform.
Following the Gulf War, ZD748/AK continued to serve in various operational theaters, including Bosnia and Kosovo, where it played a key role in NATO operations in the 1990s. The aircraft’s distinctive “Johnnie Walker ‘Still Going Strong'” nose art became iconic, reflecting both the squadron’s spirit and the enduring capability of the Tornado. The Tornado GR.1’s role in conflicts such as the Gulf War, and its adaptability to evolving warfare tactics, underscored the aircraft’s significance in modern air combat history. For No. 9 Squadron, ZD748/AK was not just another aircraft; it was a symbol of resilience and adaptability, characteristics that defined the Tornado throughout its service life.
The 1:48 scale model authentic squadron markings and distinctive livery make it a striking addition to any military aircraft collection. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or a collector of military history, this replica offers a unique glimpse into the legacy of the RAF’s Tornado fleet and its crucial role in modern combat aviation.
