Fairey Gannet COD.4
Airfix 11009

Model of a British Carrier Onboard Delivery Aircraft

Airfix A11009 features the Fairey Gannet COD.4 in 1:48 scale. Comprising 245 parts, this highly detailed kit is designed for experienced modellers (Skill Level 4). It faithfully recreates one of the most distinctive carrier-based aircraft operated by the Royal Navy during the Cold War.

One of the kit's standout features is its fully functional double-folding wings, allowing the completed model to be displayed either in flight configuration or folded for storage aboard an aircraft carrier. The kit accurately reproduces the Gannet's unique shape, detailed landing gear, cockpit and numerous exterior features. With a wingspan of approximately 344 mm, the finished model makes an impressive centrepiece in any collection of post-war naval aircraft.

The box contains plastic parts, decals, a comprehensive instruction booklet and detailed painting guides. Airfix provides three authentic historical marking options.

History of the Original

The Fairey Gannet was developed during the late 1940s as a modern carrier-based anti-submarine warfare aircraft for the Royal Navy. Designed to counter the growing threat posed by Soviet submarines during the early Cold War, it combined advanced detection equipment with the ability to carry torpedoes, depth charges and other anti-submarine weapons.

One of the aircraft's most innovative features was the Armstrong Siddeley Double Mamba powerplant, which consisted of two gas turbines driving a single gearbox connected to contra-rotating propellers. Equally distinctive were its double-folding wings, enabling the relatively large aircraft to occupy minimal space aboard aircraft carriers. The COD.4 (Carrier Onboard Delivery) variant was converted into a transport aircraft responsible for carrying personnel, mail, spare parts and urgent cargo between shore bases and Royal Navy carriers. These aircraft remained in operational service until the late 1970s, providing essential logistical support to the fleet.

Included Marking Options

• Scheme A – Fairey Gannet COD.4, 849 Naval Air Squadron, HMS Hermes, 1969.
• Scheme B – Fairey Gannet COD.4, B Flight, 849 Naval Air Squadron, HMS Ark Royal, 1970.
• Scheme C – Fairey Gannet COD.4, 849 Naval Air Squadron, Royal Navy.

Paints Recommended by the Manufacturer

Scheme A – HMS Hermes (1969)

• Humbrol 11 – Silver (Metallic)
• Humbrol 24 – Trainer Yellow (Matt)
• Humbrol 30 – Dark Green (Matt)
• Humbrol 33 – Black (Matt)
• Humbrol 34 – White (Matt)
• Humbrol 53 – Gunmetal (Metallic)
• Humbrol 56 – Aluminium (Metallic)
• Humbrol 60 – Scarlet (Matt)
• Humbrol 61 – Flesh (Matt)
• Humbrol 62 – Leather (Matt)
• Humbrol 77 – Navy Blue (Matt)
• Humbrol 85 – Coal Black (Satin)
• Humbrol 89 – Middle Blue (Matt)
• Humbrol 90 – Beige Green (Matt)
• Humbrol 103 – Cream (Matt)
• Humbrol 123 – Extra Dark Sea Grey (Satin)
• Humbrol 155 – Olive Drab (Matt)

Scheme B – HMS Ark Royal (1970)

Airfix recommends the same Humbrol paint selection as for Scheme A.

Scheme C – Royal Navy

Airfix recommends the same Humbrol paint selection as for Scheme A.