Bristol Blenheim Mk IV
Night Fighters

Owl Decals, 1/72 scale

Reviewed by Ed Russell

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Background

About 60 Blenheim MkIV bombers were modified into Mk IVF night fighters, rather less numbers than its Mk IF cousin. The gun pack was slightly larger than the MkIF model but still contained four rifle-calibre machine guns.

Despite the moderate increase in power and more roomy nose the Mk IVF essentially suffered from all the faults of the Mk IF – deficient in armament, speed and maneuverability.

As with the MkIF, it was supplanted by its faster, better-armed descendant the Bristol Beaufighter.

Because this radar technology was cutting edge and very secret in 1940, photographs of the radar-equipped MkIVF are rare. However enough exist to make reasonably accurate models.

Since 2002, the Czech accessory manufacturer, Owl, have specialised in decals, resin and photoetch with a constant theme of night fighters. Initially in 1/72 scale, they have moved into 1/48 and 1/32. Their products have been well researched and produced.

This offering provides two aircraft. There are roundels and fin flashes where appropriate for one model but they are common sizes and there should be no trouble modelling both aircraft from this sheet.

The pictures are reportedly adequate to distinguish between Smooth Night and RDM2 Black, which should make for two interesting models side-by-side.

OWLDS72079 Blenheim IVF Night Fighters

Blenheim Mk.IVF, T1231, HO-C, No. 143 Squadron RAF. In December 1941 143 Sqn converted from Beaufighters to Blenheims (sic) and moved to Ireland, where it became a non-operational training unit. Its Blenheims were very briefly taken into combat when in August 1942 the squadron moved to East Anglia to fly convoy patrols and carry out air-sea rescue duties. Like many coastal squadrons it had a secondary night fighting role.

Blenheim Mk.IVF, P4837, BQ-W, No. 600 Squadron RAF flown by FO CR Moore. In 1939-40 600 Sqn operated a few Mk IVF alongside its more numerous Mk IF fighters. P4837 is unusual in that it has the turret removed. Moore was later shot down and killed in the Battle for France.

Some of the Blenheims here need the addition of aerials for the AI Mk III radar, also readily available from Owl or you may prefer to scratch build your own.

Some rather specialised but useful decals – well researched and printed.

Thanks to Owl Decals for these samples.

Text and Images Copyright © 2017 by Ed Russell
Page Created 29 November, 2017
Last updated 29 November, 2017

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