
DE HAVILLAND DH-110 SEA VIXEN
The de Havilland DH-110 Sea Vixen was a twin-engined, twin-boom carrier-based fighter that first flew in 1951.
The 2 seater Sea Vixen remained in service until 1972 but became infamous for a crash at Farnborough Air Show in September 1952 when test pilot John Derry, co-pilot Tony Richards and 29 spectators were killed during a supersonic fly-past attempt.
This kit is a laser-cut replica of the original KK model of a DH-110 Sea Vixen, designed to be powered by a Jetex motor. Construction of the model from this kit uses the traditional method of "stick and tissue", that consists of a built up balsa wood skeleton (framework), covered with a tissue skin. The balsa frameworks are built over a plan that is printed at the exact scale of the model, which is in essence a real engineering drawing.
The Jetex motor that would have been fitted to this model is no longer available. Rapier jet motors from the Czech Republic also fit the kit and may be available at model aircraft shows but their supply is unreliable. Some modellers have had success with electric ducted fans (EDF) but again supply can be tricky. Designed for free flight means just that - once the model is launched, it is on its own. It must follow a predetermined flight path established when the model is initially adjusted for flight or "trimmed".
This type of traditional building technique and flying requires a degree of patience and skill, but is extremely rewarding.
This is a kit suitable for experienced modellers only.
KIT CONTENTS
Full size printed plan with instructions
4 sheets of laser cut balsa wood parts
Balsa strip wood and block
Vacuum-formed canopy
20swg piano wire
Tissue to cover the model
Please note: A decals/markings sheet is no longer available and not included in this kit.
- Wingspan:
- 18.5" (470mm)
Reviews
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Not the easiest
I wouldn't recommend this for a beginner, as the fit of parts to each other and the plan isn't perfect. A lot of carving/shaping is needed too for the booms and nose cone. Covering isn't easy due to the complex shape and multiple different curves. Finally assembly needed quite a bit of 'fitting' (extra sanding and shaping) to get everything together the way it should be, but as with all VMC kits I very much enjoyed the build. I chose to finish mine with navy blue tissue on top and white underneath to be a little more like the real thing.