Hobby Master HA6726 Tornado GR.4 ZA600, 41 (R ) Test and Evaluation Sqn., RAF Coningsby, 2011 PRICE: £71.99 (RRP £79.99)

Hobby Master Air Power Series - 1/72 Scale

HA6726 - Tornado GR.4 ZA600, 41 (R ) Test and Evaluation Sqn., RAF Coningsby, 2011

LIMITED EDITION OF ONLY 500 MODEL GLOBALLY

In 2011, Tornado GR.Mk 4 #ZA600, based at RAF Coningsby, England, was decorated in this special commemorative paint scheme to celebrate RAF No.41 Squadron's 95th Anniversary. No.41 Squadron is one of the RAF's oldest and most distinguished squadrons. Initially flying biplanes, the squadron played a crucial role in both World Wars, transitioning through various aircraft, including the Spitfire in WWII. Post-war, No. 41 Squadron has operated a range of jet aircraft, including the Tornado GR4 and the Eurofighter Typhoon. Today, it serves as a test and evaluation unit, responsible for developing and integrating advanced weapons and systems. The squadron's rich history and ongoing contributions underscore its importance in the RAF's operational capabilities.

The Panavia Tornado was a joint effort between the UK, West Germany and Italy to produce a two-seat, dual-engine aircraft with variable-sweep wings. The Tornado took its maiden flight on August 14, 1974 with the first aircraft being delivered to the German Air Force on July 27, 1979. There are three main variants of the Tornado, the IDS (interdictor/strike), ECR (electronic combat/reconnaissance) and ADV (air defence variant) interceptor. By the end of production in 1998 there had been 992 aircraft of all versions built of which 745 were IDS variants.