As part of their 2026 range, Airfix will be releasing a new Westland Lysander Mk.III Special Duties model kit in 1/48 scale.
In 1941, the RAF issued a requirement for around 40 of their Westland Lysander communications aircraft to undergo modification in support of a new clandestine role, which they described as ‘Special Duties’. The aircraft had defensive armament removed and have their range increased by adding a larger oil tank internally, and an external 150 gallon fuel tank under the fuselage.
The gunner’s compartment was also modified by adding a rear-sliding single piece canopy, and room to accommodate up to three people inside. A robust ladder was fixed to the port-side fuselage to allow passengers to quickly enter and exit the aircraft when they were engaged in this new ‘Spy Taxi’ role.
The new kit (A07117) is based on Airfix’s 2025 new tool Lysander (A07116 / eBay product link), but will feature newly tooled components specific to the ‘Special Duties’ version, including a rear cockpit access ladder, 150-gallon internal auxiliary fuel tank, ventral 150-gallon long-range fuel tank, rear passenger seating, New spinner, IFF Mk.III lower-rear aerial and a female agent figure. The kit is currently expected sometime this summer. Click below to check out newly released renderings.
(via Airfix)
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