An impressive and highly detailed 1:72 scale diecast representation of a Royal Air Force Blackburn Buccaneer deployed during Operation Granby in the 1991 Gulf War. Released as part of the Corgi Aviation Archive Collector Series, AA34112 depicts Buccaneer S.Mk 2B XW533 of RAF No. 237 Operational Conversion Unit, carrying the distinctive “Miss Jolly Roger” artwork.
Although the Buccaneer was approaching the end of its operational career by 1991, the aircraft made an important contribution to the British campaign in the Gulf. RAF Buccaneers were deployed to provide laser target designation support, allowing Tornado strike aircraft to deliver precision-guided weapons with substantially greater accuracy than had been possible during the opening stages of the conflict.
Known informally as the “Sky Pirates”, the deployed Buccaneers operated in demanding conditions and undertook missions over heavily defended territory. Their arrival helped improve the effectiveness of RAF precision-strike operations and demonstrated that the veteran low-level attack aircraft remained a highly capable operational platform despite its age.
Aircraft XW533 is reproduced in the pale desert-pink finish associated with RAF aircraft during Operation Granby. The model carries low-visibility national markings, operational stores beneath the wings and fuselage, and the individual “Miss Jolly Roger” nose artwork, giving the aircraft a distinctive identity among Gulf War aviation subjects.
Originally developed as a specialised low-level strike aircraft for the Royal Navy, the Blackburn Buccaneer first flew in 1958. Its robust construction, powerful twin engines and advanced aerodynamic design allowed it to fly quickly and smoothly at extremely low altitude. Following the withdrawal of the Royal Navy's conventional aircraft carriers, Buccaneers transferred to the RAF and continued serving in the maritime strike, reconnaissance and attack roles until 1994.
Limited to only 1,000 pieces worldwide, this release is particularly appealing to collectors of modern Royal Air Force aircraft and Gulf War subjects. The model features heavyweight diecast construction, finely reproduced vortex generators, simulated metallic leading edges and a detailed cockpit beneath a clear canopy. Further features include a large articulated rear airbrake that can be displayed open or closed, a positionable arrestor hook, detailed underwing stores, robust landing gear and the original Corgi Aviation Archive presentation stand.
Fact Sheet
Brand: Corgi
Series: Aviation Archive Collector Series
Model code: AA34112
Aircraft: Blackburn Buccaneer S.Mk 2B
Serial: XW533
Aircraft Name: Miss Jolly Roger
Unit: Royal Air Force No. 237 Operational Conversion Unit
Campaign / Event: Operation Granby / Gulf War
Theatre / Base: Persian Gulf
Date/Period: 1991
Operator / Country: Royal Air Force / United Kingdom
Scale: 1:72
Limited Edition Size: 1,000 pieces worldwide
Material: Heavyweight diecast metal with quality sub-components
Special Features: Low-run limited edition release, authentic Operation Granby desert-pink finish, Miss Jolly Roger nose artwork, low-visibility RAF markings, detailed cockpit with clear canopy, articulated rear airbrake, positionable arrestor hook, finely reproduced vortex generators, simulated metallic leading edges, detailed underwing stores, robust landing gear and original presentation display stand
Model Dimensions
Length: 10.5" or 26.7 cm
Width (Wingspan): 7.25" or 18.4 cm