I’ve been asked to build a Royal Navy Avenger. I know that around 100 were supplied in the 50’s, but I only have one photo. It looks like the belly gun windows are blanked off, but the wing hides the turret. Was that taken out on some aircraft? if it was left in, was the gun normally fitted?
If anyone knows of a site I could go, to I’d be grateful.
BTW, I’m using the Airfix 1/72nd kit. it’s dated I know, but it’s all I’ve got.
I’ve already lengthened the fuselage by 2mm before I start on the rest!
Cheers, Pete[:)]
Hi Pete,
This was the only references I found during a brief search on Google, hope you can use them.
Take care,
Frank
Mr Sponson, (or may I call you Albert). I think the Avenger was the only US built aircraft kept on by the FAA post war. Originally they were identical to US Navy TBMs but being incompatible with British torpedoes, were never used as torpedo bombers by the Royal Navy. Postwar, they were modified (with gun armament removed) for the ASW role (think Gannet) and later the AEW role, (again, think Gannet!) The first picture “Oldhooker” has posted above shows the aircraft in European theatre colours (temperate sea scheme) pacific Avengers were in the same scheme as their US Navy comrades but for the national markings.
Thanks guy’s. I like the scheme on the Canadian example, but I’ve been asked for RN, so it’s going to be dark blue. If anyone is wondering about the 2mm, I have some 1/72nd side views of USN Avengers. According to those the Airfix kit is too short around the starboard door area and the fin/rudder is too short by around 2mm too. I’ve put the kit aside for now until I get some more ‘gen’
Thanks again, Pete