A striking, highly detailed 1:72 scale diecast replica honoring the vital maritime patrol and defensive legacy of RAF Coastal Command during the early years of the Second World War. This premium model from Corgi's Aviation Archive Collector Series (AA38405) represents the Bristol Blenheim Mk IV as operated by RAF No. 254 Squadron.
Based at RAF Aldergrove, Northern Ireland, in the autumn of 1941, this specific twin-engine aircraft (Serial V5735 / coded DY-D) was deployed in a diverse array of roles. The Blenheim IV entered service with Coastal Command in late 1939, quickly becoming the most important version of the aircraft and replacing the Mk I in frontline service by 1940. It was heavily utilized for shipping protection, coastal patrols, reconnaissance, and as an attack aircraft.
Despite its versatility, the Blenheim sustained high combat losses, primarily due to its vulnerability when intercepted by modern enemy fighters. To bolster its capabilities, many Coastal Command Blenheims were adapted as long-range fighters. Designated as the Blenheim IVF, this variant featured a special gun pack mounted beneath the fuselage armed with four machine guns, an additional machine gun in the mid-upper turret, and a dedicated three-man crew. No. 254 Squadron operated from Aldergrove from May to December 1941, continuing to fly this resilient type until June 1942.
The Bristol Blenheim itself was originally designed in response to a bold challenge by media mogul Lord Rothermere, who wanted a private aircraft to recapture the title of "fastest European civilian aircraft". First flying as "Britain First" on April 12, 1935, the aircraft was faster than any fighter in service with the RAF at the time, prompting the Air Ministry to issue a bomber specification. It went on to become one of the first British aircraft to feature retractable landing gear, flaps, and variable-pitch propellers.
Highly sought after by advanced military collectors for its extremely scarce 1,100-piece limited worldwide release, this 1:72 scale diecast model is beautifully engineered. The Mk IV is distinguished by its longer, asymmetric "scooped out" nose section, which was specifically designed to provide the pilot with maximum visibility. The model showcases a detailed, 360-degree rotating dorsal-mounted gunner's station with a pivoting Lewis machine gun, and a robust metal landing gear assembly that is quick and easy to install for ground display.
Fact Sheet
Brand: Corgi
Series: Aviation Archive Collector Series
Model code: AA38405
Aircraft: Bristol Blenheim Mk IV (Blenheim IVF Long-Range Fighter Variant)
Serial/Tail Markings: V5735 / DY-D (DODY)
Unit: RAF Coastal Command, No. 254 Squadron (No.254 Sqn)
Base Command: RAF Aldergrove, Northern Ireland
Date/Period: Autumn 1941 (World War II)
Scale: 1:72
Limited Edition Size: 1,100 pieces worldwide
Material: Heavyweight Diecast Metal with Quality Components
Special Features: Authentic RAF Coastal Command camouflage livery, signature asymmetric "scooped out" nose glazing, four-gun belly pack, 360-degree rotating dorsal gun turret with detailed pivoting Lewis machine gun, realistic engine cowls, easily configurable robust metal landing gear, original presentation display stand
Model Dimensions
Length: 7.25" or 18.4 cm
Width (Wingspan): 9.25" or 23.5 cm