A distinctive and highly detailed 1:72 scale diecast representation of the Arado Ar 196A-3 maritime reconnaissance floatplane operated in support of the German Kriegsmarine during the Second World War. Released as part of the Oxford Aviation range, AC027 depicts aircraft 7R+GK of 2./SAGr.125 in a dark green maritime camouflage scheme.
The Arado Ar 196 became the principal shipboard reconnaissance aircraft used by the Kriegsmarine. Aircraft of the type operated from major German warships and coastal bases, undertaking reconnaissance, maritime patrol, convoy protection and observation duties across several naval theatres.
Aircraft 7R+GK is represented with the unit code applied prominently along the rear fuselage, together with black and white German national markings across the wings and fuselage. The dark green camouflage, red spinner and detailed twin-float arrangement give the model a particularly distinctive maritime appearance.
Designed by Walter Blume to meet a requirement for a modern catapult-launched reconnaissance aircraft, the Arado Ar 196 first flew in 1937. Its low-wing monoplane configuration represented a significant advance over the biplane floatplanes it replaced, combining stable handling with a robust airframe suitable for operations from both warships and coastal seaplane bases.
The Ar 196 was powered by a BMW radial engine and carried a crew of two beneath an extensively glazed canopy. Depending on the variant and intended mission, its armament could include wing-mounted cannon, a forward-firing machine gun, a flexible defensive gun for the observer and a small external bomb load.
This Oxford Diecast release is particularly appealing to collectors of maritime aviation, German naval aircraft and Second World War reconnaissance subjects. The model features diecast construction, detailed twin floats and supporting struts, a glazed cockpit with crew positions, rotating propeller, rear-mounted defensive machine gun, authentic unit markings and a dedicated presentation display stand identifying the aircraft and unit.
Fact Sheet
Brand: Oxford Diecast
Series: Oxford Aviation
Model code: AC027
Aircraft: Arado Ar 196A-3
Tactical Markings: 7R+GK
Unit: 2./SAGr.125
Role: Maritime reconnaissance floatplane
Campaign / Event: Second World War naval operations
Operator / Country: Kriegsmarine / Germany
Scale: 1:72
Range: Oxford Aviation
Material: Diecast metal with quality sub-components
Special Features: Authentic 7R+GK unit markings, dark green maritime camouflage, detailed twin-float arrangement and supporting struts, glazed crew canopy, rear defensive machine gun, rotating propeller and dedicated presentation display stand
Model Dimensions
Length: 6" or 15.2 cm
Width (Wingspan): 6.75" or 17.1 cm