Corgi 48703 1:144 Handley Page Victor SR.2 RAF No.543 Sqn XL161 RAF Wyton

A substantial and highly distinctive 1:144 scale diecast representation of Handley Page Victor SR.2 XL161, operated by Royal Air Force No. 543 Squadron during the Cold War. Released as part of Corgi's Aviation Archive Military Air Power range, model 48703 recreates the aircraft in its camouflaged strategic reconnaissance configuration while serving from RAF Wyton.

No. 543 Squadron specialised in long-range strategic reconnaissance and operated the Victor SR.2 from RAF Wyton between the mid-1960s and 1974. The aircraft's considerable range, high-altitude performance and internal capacity made the Victor well suited to the demanding reconnaissance role.

XL161 originally entered Royal Air Force service as a Victor B.2 during 1961 and was used in support of Blue Steel missile trials in Australia. The aircraft was converted to B(SR).2 reconnaissance configuration during March 1966 before joining No. 543 Squadron at RAF Wyton.

The model recreates XL161 in the disruptive green and grey camouflage adopted by RAF strategic aircraft, combined with contrasting white lower surfaces and period national markings. Its broad crescent wing, high-mounted tailplane, recessed engine installation and sharply pointed nose capture the unmistakable profile of the Victor.

The Handley Page Victor was developed as one of Britain's three Cold War V-bombers and first flew during the early 1950s. Originally intended to deliver Britain's strategic nuclear deterrent, the aircraft featured an advanced crescent-shaped wing and a highly aerodynamic fuselage unlike almost any other bomber of its generation.

The more powerful Victor B.2 was equipped with four Rolls-Royce Conway turbofan engines and was initially used in the strategic bomber role. As Britain's nuclear deterrent requirements changed, several aircraft were converted for reconnaissance duties, while others later became K.2 aerial refuelling tankers. XL161 was converted to tanker configuration during 1974 and continued serving for many years afterward.

Limited to 4,000 pieces worldwide, this early Corgi Aviation Archive release is particularly appealing to collectors of RAF V-bombers, Cold War reconnaissance aircraft and larger British military jets. The model features extensive diecast construction, clear cockpit glazing, detailed engine nacelles, authentic No. 543 Squadron markings, supplied landing gear, original presentation display stand and numbered limited-edition certificate.

Fact Sheet

Model Dimensions

Model Condition - Very Good (7/10)

• Model is in very good condition overall and comes complete.
• A few marks are present in places, which have been pointed out with red arrows in the photos.
• Some further marks are visible on the underside, as shown in the images.
• Despite the noted imperfections, the model still displays very well overall.

Box condition - Very Good (7/10)

• Box is in very good condition for its age, with some shelf wear present.
• Small perforation present to the corner of the display cover.

Photographed under studio lighting to highlight even the smallest imperfections. Buy with confidence, what you see is exactly what you get.

Any imperfections are shown in the images and description. Refer to the grading tab for more details. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask.