The "Mossie," as it was known affectionately by its British crews, was both simple in construction and design. It was a twin engine, single boom aircraft that placed the pilot and navigator in a side-by-side sitting configuration. The Mosquito was one of the most cost effective aircraft ever built because it was constructed out of wood. Balsa was used for the plywood skin, Sitka spruce from Alaska and British Columbia for the wing spars, and Douglas Fir stringers and birch and ash for the longitudinal pieces. These were all held together with glue and wood screws. The result was an airplane that was easy to maintain, tolerant of battle damage, and simple to patch. It was faster than the Spitfire, flew higher than almost any other aircraft, and carried tremendous firepower over great distances. The bomber version operated with relative impunity over Germany til the end of the war, because the Luftwaffe never had a nightfighter fast enough to intercept it. Interestingly, the nightfighter versions of the Mosquito remained in production until 1947, two years after the war in Europe had ended.

This particular 1:32 scale replica of a Mosquito Mk. VI bomber was nicknamed 'The Black Rufe', and flown by No.418 Squadron 'City of Edmonton', during 1944. Sold Out!

Dimensions:
Length: 15-1/2-inches
Wingspan: 20-1/4-inches

Release Date: July 2013

Historical Account: "City of Edmonton" - One of the most potent versions of the famous De Havilland Mosquito the FBVI matched the high speed bombing capability of the early glass-nosed bomber variants with the cannon and machine gun punch of the fighters, creating a fast and efficient fighter bomber. Operating across Europe and the Far East, the Mosquito came to be highly respected by its adversaries.

One operator was 418 Squadron RCAF, the highest scoring squadron of all the Canadian units flying with the RAF. Flying long range intruder and ranger sorties over occupied Europe, by day and by night, the squadron often intercepting transport and training aircraft deep over enemy controlled territory.

Despite the Mosquitos not carrying any radar, the squadron still achieved a number of victories by night, showing a high level of skill and determination amongst its crews.