{"product_id":"airfix-fairey-gannet-as1as4","title":"Airfix Fairey Gannet AS1AS4","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis Airfix 1:48 scale model kit showcases the Fairey Gannet AS.1\/AS.4, a standout aircraft from the Fleet Air Arm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eComprising 334 parts and offering three livery options, this Skill Level 4 kit provides seasoned modellers the opportunity to build a detailed replica of the innovative turboprop-powered anti-submarine hunter-killer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a wingspan measuring 344mm, this model represents the sole post-war military contract secured by the renowned Fairey Aviation Company, designed to address the Soviet submarine threat during the Cold War.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHistory\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Fairey Gannet, recognised as one of the most distinctive aircraft to serve with the Fleet Air Arm, was both unique and capable, marking the only post-war military contract won by the esteemed Fairey Aviation Company.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConsidered the most unconventional design by Fairey to reach full production, the Gannet was developed in response to a 1945 Royal Navy call for a sophisticated carrier-based, turboprop-powered anti-submarine hunter-killer, robust enough for maritime operations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDesigned to counter the expansion of the Soviet submarine fleet at the Cold War's onset, the Gannet was fitted with state-of-the-art electronic detection systems and could identify, track, and engage enemy submarines using bombs, depth charges, rockets, and air-launched acoustic torpedoes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA notable feature was its powerplant, the innovative Armstrong Siddeley Double Mamba. This configuration consisted of two gas turbine engines placed side by side in the nose, sharing a common gearbox but functioning independently, each driving its own coaxial, contra-rotating propeller.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe engines could operate on kerosene or diesel fuel, which was safer and less refined than traditional aviation fuels. This arrangement provided sufficient power for carrier operations and the assurance of two engines for extended ocean patrols. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnother distinctive design element was the bi-folding wing system, enabling this large aircraft to operate safely and be stored on the Royal Navy's relatively small carriers. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFavoured by air and ground crews alike, 348 Gannets were produced. In addition to serving Britain's Fleet Air Arm, the aircraft also served with the navies of Australia, Germany, and Indonesia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e334 component kit presenting a challenging build for seasoned modellers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSkill Level 4 - appropriate for ages 8 and up\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIncludes three distinctive livery options\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1:48 scale with a wingspan of 344mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDetailed depiction of the unique Double Mamba engine configuration\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAccurately recreated bi-folding wing mechanism\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eComplete anti-submarine equipment and weaponry options\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Key Publishing Ltd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56951863083383,"sku":"A11007","price":44.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/2152\/0450\/files\/A11007-FAIREY-GANNET-AS-1-AS-4-Size-100-FRONT.jpg?v=1776605729","url":"https:\/\/shop.keymodelworld.com\/products\/airfix-fairey-gannet-as1as4","provider":"Key Model World Shop","version":"1.0","type":"link"}