Vickers Supermarine Merlin Seafire: Warpaint #72 softcover
Published 2013, Reprint, 36 pages, black & white and colour photographs, 40 colour profiles, colour multi views, 1:72 scale line drawing plans, production and unit lists, model kit decal and accessory list, softcover, A4 Format, 21 cm (8 1/4”) x 29.7 cm (11 3/4 “)
In 1941 the Fleet Air Arm was equipped with the Hawker Sea Hurricane and the Fairey Fulmar. While both would give a good account of themselves it was obvious that at some point their opposition would outstrip them in agility and speed.
The answer was to navalise the Supermarine Spitfire as an interim before lend lease aircraft became available in quantity from America. Starting with the hooked Spitfire conversions of the Mk V the FAA would eventually receive the fixed wing Mk 1b, various versions of the Mk II and the very capable Mk III.
The Mk 1b would quickly be replaced by the folding wing versions which made the type far more flexible, thus all the fleet and escort carriers were able to carry a complement of the speedy fighter.
The Seafire did have some faults, the first was a lack of endurance which was cured by adding external fuel tanks, while the tendency to ping the deck on touch down was cured by better training and the ability to trim the blades should such an event occur. During its service the Merlin powered Seafire served in all theatres of war and would provide vital air cover over the fleet during operations. At wars end the Merlin powered machines would be quickly retired although some newer build aircraft would see service with Aeronavale and the Irish Air Corps.
Written by Kev Darling this latest Warpaint covers all versions of this naval fighter and is illustrated in colour by Richard J.Caruana. Unique 1:72nd scale plans are also included as well as lists of user units plus production details.
Warpaint Series
Designed with both the aircraft enthusiast and the model maker in mind, the publishers of the Warpaint series try to establish as near as possible a comprehensive and accurate account of a single aircraft type within one set of covers. Each book sets standards in the quality of the history and the accuracy of the drawings both in colour, side and plan view and the 1:72nd scale plans that appear in each one.
Aircraft titles range from World War 2 to the post war period, and include a majority of RAF and Fleet Air Arm aircraft but also feature many USAAF, USAF, US Navy and Luftwaffe machines. Variety is the keyword in the attempt to satisfy as many specialist interest groups as possible during the year. Few contemporary aircraft are featured as an attempt is made to write and illustrate the definitive history of the aircraft involved, although it is appreciated that in some cases there might be a few still flying in non-operational roles.
The publishers employ authors who have established reputations in aircraft historical journalism where their own notes and files can produce facts and data that may, in many cases, not have been published hitherto. Artists used for the illustrations are also well-established in their field and very knowledgeable on camouflage colours and the use of computer generated art work which adds so much to the completeness of the finished book.
Warpaint books on aircraft set the standards that others would like to follow...
-Complete and detailed history
-1:72nd scale plan line drawings
-In detail photographs
-Kit, decal and accessory list
-Pages of superb colour profiles, black & white and colour photography
-Complete production list
-Squadrons, units and individual aircraft serials and codes
-Comprehensive specifications
While we make every effort to maintain our online inventory, If this item is not available to order online, it is likely out of stock. We would be happy to order it in for you, or confirm availability of the item. Please feel free to email us at [email protected] or call 416-674-5959.
