Trumpeter 1634 Lightning F.1A/F.2

English Electric developed the ultimate interceptor of the Cold War in the early 1960s with the Lightning F.1. The aircraft was an advanced twin-engined design that also featured significant wing area while minimizing frontal area - a highly swept wing. This aircraft would become the only all-British Mach 2+ design that could also climb at over 50,000 feet per minute. Armed with the Firestreak or Red Top air-to-air missiles, the Lightning could get onto its target in very short time and still had two 30mm cannons in reserve should the missiles not finish off the threat(s).

Despite its high performance, the Lightning was supposed to be an interim solution that ended up serving the Crown into the late 1980s when it finally was replaced by the Tornado air defence variant. Few aircraft could match Lightning's performance, with the F-15 Eagle being the closest to matching Lightning's ability to go from brake release to eyes on target in the least amount of time.

The kit features an intake duct with the centerbody shock cone that leads back to the lower engine's compressor face. The ductwork for the upper engine wasn't provided since it wouldn't be visible after assembly and greatly reduces the complexity of the build.

The ailerons and stabilisers are moulded separately whilst the rudder is moulded in place.

This kit has the parts to build either the F.1A or the F.2. The aircraft were virtually identical and both armed with the Firestreak missile. The canopy is moulded in two parts so you have the option of posing the cockpit open or closed.

Markings are included for three examples, the Lightning F.1A, XM181, 19 Sqn, RAF, 1971, the Lightning F.1A, XM182, 56 Sqn, RAF, 1962 and the Lightning F.2, XN779, 19 Sqn, RAF, 1973.