Sheet #

Techmod 48-801 for Lancaster B.I

Price:

$11.49

Units:

300 Squadron, RAF

Review By:

Scott Van Aken

Notes:

Also available in 1/72

It wasn't until the introduction of the Avro Lancaster that the RAF finally had a heavy bomber worthy of the name. Previous to that, the most capable bomber was the Wellington, but despite its ruggedness and range, it lacked the bomb carrying capability that was really needed to carry the war to the Germans.

Having been badly mauled in daylight precision operations, the RAF turned to night time carpet bombing, and with the USAF entering the war and doing daylight raids, there was round the clock bombing of German-held Europe by late 1943. As with other units of the RAF, the Lancaster squadrons had at least one that was primarily manned by Polish aircrew.

In the case of this sheet, that was 300 Squadron. There are common markings for one plane (like you are going to build a lot of 1/48 Lancasters!), and the unique markings for all three. As with every Techmod sheet I have seen, printing is crystal clear, registration is spot on and the decals are quite thin.

The aircraft differ only in the aircraft number and any nose art that they may carry. Most Americans do not realize that the RAF had a history of bomber nose art. Though it wasn't often as flamboyant and those on US planes, it was often just as nicely done.

The use of any of these markings on your next Tamiya Lancaster (as no one else makes a kit of this plane) will surely enhance it.

Review copy courtesy of Air Connection. They have a full selection of Polish and other Eastern European products. When you shop there, say Modeling Madness sent you! Thanks for your support.

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