Product Highlights
This 1:72 scale diecast model by Corgi replicates the Fairey Swordfish Mk.I (AA36312), a Fleet Air Arm biplane torpedo bomber of World War II.
Features
- Model measures approximately 8.75" long with a wingspan of 9.75"
- Diecast metal construction with some plastic components
- Propellers rotate
- Includes pilot figure
- Metal display stand included
About the Taranto raid
After Italy declared war on Britain, its navy posed a major threat to British forces in the Mediterranean. On the night of November 11-12, 1940, "Operation Judgement" sent 20 Fleet Air Arm Swordfish, armed with torpedoes or bombs, against the Italian fleet moored at Taranto in two waves 20 minutes apart, inflicting significant damage. Swordfish L4M, crewed by Lt(A) H. Swayne and Sub Lt(A) J. Buscall, was part of the first wave's second-element torpedo attack, releasing its torpedo at low level from 400 yards against the battleship Littorio and passing through the ship's masts during the pullout, hitting and seriously damaging the vessel. The raid demonstrated that carrier air power could cripple a battle fleet at anchor and was studied by Japanese naval commanders ahead of the attack on Pearl Harbor the following year.
