IBG Models Plastic Model Kit
Supermarine Spitfire Mk Vb – North West Europe 1941–44 (1/72)
This Black Box Limited Edition set from IBG Models offers an exceptionally comprehensive 1/72 scale representation of the Supermarine Spitfire Mk Vb as operated over North West Europe between 1941 and 1944. Designed as a premium release, the box combines two complete plastic model kits with a wide range of advanced detail parts, allowing for highly accurate and varied builds straight from the box.
Each Spitfire Mk Vb kit includes alternative fuselage and wing upper half options, reflecting subtle production differences across aircraft built by Supermarine, CBAF, and Westland. These variations are supported by a vast decal sheet providing 18 different marking options, with an extensive selection of roundels and fin flashes to match the configurations included.
The set is further enhanced with a large collection of 3D-printed components, covering cockpit structures, wheels, exhausts, air intakes, mirrors, and gunsights. These parts allow for a finer level of detail than is typically possible with injection-moulded plastic alone. Photo-etched parts and painting masks are also included to refine smaller details and streamline the finishing process.
- 1/72 scale plastic model kit, Black Box Limited Edition
- Includes two complete Spitfire Mk Vb kits
- Alternative fuselage and wing upper halves for each aircraft
- Huge decal sheet with 18 marking options
- 3D-printed cockpit inserts, wheels, exhausts, air intakes, mirrors, and gunsights
- Photo-etched detail parts included
- Highly researched stencil sets for different manufacturers
- Painting mask sets for both aircraft
This limited edition release is well suited to modellers looking to build multiple accurate Spitfire Mk Vb variants from a single package, with the included parts supporting a wide range of historically correct configurations and finishes.
History
The Supermarine Spitfire Mk V entered service in early 1941 as an interim development intended to counter the increasing performance of German fighter aircraft. Powered by the Merlin 45 engine and typically armed with two 20mm Hispano cannon and four .303 machine guns, the Mk V quickly became the most widely produced Spitfire variant of the war.
In North West Europe, the Mk Vb played a central role in RAF Fighter Command operations from 1941 through to the introduction of later Spitfire marks. It was heavily involved in offensive sweeps over occupied territory, coastal patrols, and bomber escort duties. Aircraft were produced by multiple manufacturers, leading to small but significant structural and equipment differences that are now of particular interest to historians and modellers alike.
Although eventually outclassed by newer enemy fighters, the Spitfire Mk Vb remained in frontline service well into 1944, valued for its agility, adaptability, and continued effectiveness in a wide range of operational roles.
