Englisch Electric (BAC) Lightning F.1A/F.3, 1/32 - Trumpeter 02280

Planned release in September 2026.

The Trumpeter 02280 is a plastic model kit to be assembled at 1/32, depicting the British interceptor English Electric (BAC) Lightning, with a choice between the F.1A and F.3 versions. This large-format reproduction captures the Lightning’s very distinctive silhouette, recognizable by its slender fuselage, swept wings, and the stacked installation of its two jet engines.

Designed by English Electric and later associated with the name BAC, the Lightning was a supersonic interceptor of the Royal Air Force during the Cold War. Its main mission was high-speed air defense. The F.1A and F.3 variants belong to the early operational generations of this iconic British military aircraft of the 1960s.

The kit allows you to build either a Lightning F.1A or a Lightning F.3. The differences specific to the two versions are accounted for by dedicated assembly parts, including the choice of fin/rudder assemblies, nose panels with or without cannons, and air-to-air armament. The box also includes Firestreak or Red Top missiles, depending on the selected version.

At 1/32 scale, the assembled model reaches approximately 524.6 mm in length and 333.1 mm in wingspan. This format particularly highlights the Lightning’s lines and makes it an ideal centerpiece for a collection dedicated to British jet aircraft or Cold War aviation.

The model includes injection-molded plastic parts, clear elements, white-metal main landing gear legs, and flexible tires. The canopy can be displayed open or closed, and the airbrakes can be positioned. The cockpit area, air intakes, landing gear, and exhaust nozzles are key areas to pay attention to when painting and weathering.

Two Royal Air Force schemes are provided: a Lightning F.1A XM174 from No. 56 Squadron based at RAF Wattisham in 1963, and a Lightning F.3 XR711 from No. 111 Squadron based at RAF Wattisham in 1965. Assembly requires model glue and paints, as well as the usual tools for preparation, removing flash, and finishing.

• Brand: Trumpeter
• Reference: 02280
• Type: military aircraft model kit to assemble
• Subject: English Electric (BAC) Lightning F.1A/F.3
• Scale: 1/32
• Main material: injected plastic
• Assembled length: 524.6 mm
• Assembled wingspan: 333.1 mm
• Number of parts: 163
• Decals: Royal Air Force, No. 56 Squadron and No. 111 Squadron