1:72 Scale Diecast Hawker Hurricane Mk I Model, RAF No.73 Sqn, "Paddy III", Edgar 'Cobber' Kain, Rouvres, France, Spring 1940 (Limited Edition)

This model measures 5.25" long by 6.75" wide.

Edgar James ‘Cobber’ Kain, a New Zealander, joined the RAF in 1936. He was quickly recognized as an outstanding pilot, flying Gladiators with 73 Sqn. In 1938 the squadron converted to Hurricanes and flew to France just 4 days after war was declared. Kain's first victory, a D017, was achieved on 8th Nov 1939. His career rapidly became one of firsts, first RAF Pilot to claim a Me109E; first WW2 RAF Ace; first to receive the DFC. By 6th June 1940 ‘Cobber' was the top RAF Ace with 16 kills and one probable and was due to return to England the following day. Leaving Echimenes in a Hurricane he proceeded to 'beat up' the airfield but on his third roll the aircraft went into a spin and crashed, killing him instantly. No one knows for sure the serial number of Kain’s Hurricane ‘Paddy III’ but it is likely an early ‘L’ prefix aircraft (possibly L1766). From Sept 1939 all Hurricanes were fitted with a metal wing in place of the early canvas covered wing and any surviving ‘L’ prefix machines were upgraded. This model represents such a modified machine during the height of the Battle of France in the spring of 1940.

The Corgi "Aviation Archive" presents highly-detailed, ready-made diecast models of military and civilian aircraft. The vast Aviation Archive range has become the standard by which all other diecast airplane ranges are judged. Each Corgi model is based on a specific aircraft from an important historical or modern era of flight, and has been authentically detailed from original documents and archival library material. Famous airplanes and aviators from both military and commercial airline aviation are all honored.

Corgi "Aviation Archive" diecast airplanes feature:

* Diecast metal construction with some plastic components

* Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details

* Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals

* Optional extended/retracted landing gear with rotating wheels

* Poseable presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight"

* Many limited editions with numbered certificate of authenticity

* Detailed pilot and crew member figures

* Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards

* Selected interchangeable features such as airbrakes, opened canopies and access panels

* Selected moving parts such as gun turrets, control surfaces and swing-wings

Note: This model is scheduled to ship in March, 2010 and this is a pre-order item.