1/72 Supermarine Spitfire PR Type G - Playing with Death

The Supermarine Spitfire is arguably the most famous British fighter aircraft of the Second World War. Its all-metal construction, featuring low-set, characteristically elliptical wings, classic tail surfaces and retractable landing gear, was conceived on the drawing board of Supermarine’s chief designer, R. J. Mitchell. The prototype took to the air on 5 March 1936, and during the war the Spitfire became the backbone of the RAF’s fighter force – from the Battle of Britain in 1940 right through to its deployment on all fronts where the RAF operated. The aircraft saw a whole series of production variants and, for many Britons, became a symbol of victory in the Second World War.

A special chapter in the history of the Spitfire was its photo-reconnaissance (PR) variants. In order to fly high and fast into enemy territory, they were usually stripped of their armament and armour in favour of greater range and speed; their pilots relied solely on altitude and speed. It is precisely for this reason that the nickname ‘Playing with Death’ became associated with this type of service. The Type G (PR Mk. IG) was an exception in this respect: as an armed reconnaissance variant, it retained its machine-gun armament, which allowed for operations at lower altitudes, where there was a greater risk of encountering the enemy. These aircraft carried photographic equipment and were usually repainted in specific reconnaissance camouflage colours distinct from those of standard fighters.

The IBG 1:72 scale kit is a glue-together model that captures the distinctive features of the early reconnaissance version of the Spitfire. Thanks to the 1:72 scale, this is a space-saving yet detailed model suitable for both Spitfire collectors and modellers interested in the less common but historically significant photographic reconnaissance branch of the RAF. To achieve a realistic appearance, the reconnaissance Spitfire is usually finished with subtle panel line highlighting and moderate service soiling appropriate to its operational deployment. The pack does not contain the paints or adhesives required for assembly.