Airfix 1/48 Vampire-RAE Meteorological Research Flight. Completed

[AeroplaneDriver]

As jet aircraft became more capable of flying in all weathers, it once again became evident that the greatest threat to aviators was Mother Nature.  In 1954 the RAF began research into inflight icing with a DeHavilland Vampire F.3.  This Vampire was modified with heated wing leading edges and engine intakes, with bleed air from the engine providing the heat source.  This aircraft was used to explore the capabilities of thermal inflight anti-icing systems and contributed to both increased all-weather capabilities for military aircraft, but also increased safety for civilian aviation. 

This model depicts the Vampire operated at the Royal Aircraft Establishment by the Meteorological Research Flight in late 1956.  It is painted in the distinctive red and white scheme that much later became commonly used and known as the "Raspberry Ripple" scheme.  The wings are painted with a black stripe aft of the thermal anti-icing leading edges to make icing more visible as it spread beyond the heated area. 

[Tophe]

Very good!

[perttime]

Oh. I Like That! 
Always really preferred the esthetics of an aircraft with a splash of colour.

[Dizzyfugu]

That's nice! 

[zenrat]

Good job.   

[PR19_Kit]

Love it! 

That colour scheme shouts 'Farnborough' at you, doesn't it? 

[Old Wombat]

Yep, that came together really well, Nick!    


Paint, decals & weathering are all spot-on!

[NARSES2]

That does look good mate 

[Wardukw]

Ive already given my 2 thumbsup for a Wiffie..this is a beautiful build  .

[AeroplaneDriver]

Thanks for all the kind comments fellas!  Good to finally finish one after a bit of a mojo-lull.

[Nick]

FAANN-TASTIC! Are you sure it isn't a real world build?   

[comrade harps]

Believable and beautifully executed 

[Devilfish]

Love it!!!

[Captain Canada]

Doesn't that just look the part ! Excellent ! Also, somehow how makes the diminutive bird look much bigger.

[The Rat]

Absolutely beautiful!