Tracing its lineage back to the famous Lancaster of the Second World War, the Avro Shackleton was a long-range maritime patrol aircraft used primarily for anti-submarine operations, but it was also required to perform several other roles. 

Entering RAF service in 1951, the majority of Shackletons were powered by the mighty Rolls Royce Griffon engine, and became the last aircraft in the illustrious line of four-engined propeller-powered bomber/strike aircraft to see service with the Royal Air Force. 

The decision to scrap HMS Ark Royal left the Royal Navy concerned that their ships would lose vital airborne early warning cover, however, a proposal to fit the radar units from Ark Royal’s former AEW Fairey Gannets to RAF Avro Shackletons allayed those fears. 

Twelve Shackleton airframes were converted to AEW Mk.2 standard and operated in the colours of No.8 Squadron at RAF Lossiemouth, where they remained until the unit finally disbanded in 1991. 

Our Avro Shackleton model kit allows you to build this classic aircraft in detailed 1:72 scale.