de Havilland Mosquito PR.Mk XVI – 25th BG, 653rd BS, USAAF D Day 1944. DISPLAYED

Corgi Aviation Archive AA32807: de Havilland Mosquito PR.Mk XVI 25th BG, 653rd BS, USAAF, RAF Watton, England, 1944. Limited Edition of 2900 Pieces Worldwide.

Length 6.75 inches Wingspan 9 inches

PLEASE NOTE: This is an imperfect ex display model. Comes with all parts plus display stand in original box with certificate. Paintwork has the odd imperfection which has been touched in but not in A1 condition. Photos of actual model. Please do not purchase if you want a perfect item

This Mosquito PR.XVI was flown by Lt. Earl L. Muchway and Lt. Lionel Proulux as one of two US Mosquito crews that accompanied the B-17s on the disastrous Frantic Joe shuttle mission to the USSR, Italy and then back to England between 21st June and 5th July 1944. After take-off from San Severo, in Italy, on 5th July, NS519 was forced to abort the flight back at 25,000 ft when the port propeller ran away. The aircraft was repaired by an RAF unit back in Italy and the crew returned to Watton alone a few days later.

Designed in a private venture as a high-altitude, high-speed unarmed bomber, the de Havilland DH.98 Mosquito was first flown on November 25th, 1940. The Mosquito was one of the most successful aircraft of the Second World War. Only the Ju 88 could rival its versatility. Powered by two Rolls-Royce Merlin engines, the all-wood Mosquito was as fast as a fighter and could carry the payload of a medium bomber. During its lifetime, the Mosquito was used in varying roles, which included night fighter and ground attack.