Sopwith Camel F.1

Sopwith Camel airplane model. The Sopwith Camel fighter biplane, which superseded the Pup in service on the Western Front, is regarded as the finest British fighter plane of World War I. This airplane was basically a further development of the Pup. Somewhat heavier and with a more powerful engine as standard, the Camel had armament, fuel, pilot, and powerplant concentrated within a short distance, resulting in outstanding maneuverability. This was enhanced by the torque of the large engine, making possible snap turns to starboard which were so fast that some pilots would make a three-quarter right instead of one-quarter left turn, not only did they believe this to be faster in combat, it was tactically confusing to an enemy pilot. This combination of capability made the Camel the most successful Allied fighter of World War I. Remarkably, for more than 70 years, its official tally of victims was universally accepted as 1,294. Final production totaled 5,490 airplanes.

Mahogany Wood. Scale: 1/24. Wingspan 14 1/4 inches, Length 9 3/4 inches.