Hobby Master 1/72 RAF WW2 Bristol Beaufighter NT 950/MB-T 236 Sqdrn Die-cast Model (HA2301)
Crisply modelled, crisply painted, this is an excellent model of the Beaufighter in a very distinctive livery of 236 Squadron based at RAF North Coates 1944. Detailed under carriage, pilot and navigator figures, display with undercarriage down if required.
The North Coates Strike Wing (Coastal Command), based at RAF North Coates on the Lincolnshire coast, developed attack tactics combining large formations of Beaufighters on anti-flak suppression with cannon and rockets while the Torbeaus attacked on low level. These tactics were put into practice in mid 1943 and in a 10 month period 27,000 tonnes of shipping were sunk. Tactics were further adapted when shipping was moved from port during night hours. North Coates Strike Wing operated as the largest anti-shipping force of the Second World War, and accounted for over 150,000 tons of shipping and 117 vessels for a loss of 120 Beaufighters and 241 aircrew killed or missing. This was half the total tonnage sunk by all strike wings between 1942-45 Nice Beaufighter Poem which can be found on the North Coates Strike Wing Memorial Cleethorpes of which MBT 236 Sqn was attached. When a Beau goes in Into the drink It makes you think, Because, you see, they always sink; But nobody says "Poor lad!" Or goes about looking sad; Because, you see, it's war, It's the unalterable law. Although it's perfectly certain The pilot's gone for a Burton And the observer too, It's nothing to do with you; And if they both should go To a land where falls no rain nor hail nor driven snow-- Here, there, or anywhere, Do you suppose THEY care? You shouldn't cry Or say a prayer or sigh. In the cold sea, in the dark It isn't a lark But it isn't Original Sin-- It's just a Beau going in. | |