Corgi Aviation Archive Series Die-cast Model

Bristol Beaufighter TF.X – NE775/X2, No. 455 Squadron, RAAF, June 1944

1:72 Scale.  Length: 6.9".  Wingspan: 9.7"


Limited Edition of 1000 Models Worldwide

455 Squadron Royal Australian Air Force began operations in the ETO as part of RAF Bomber Command but transferred to Coastal Command at the end of April 1942. Still flying the Handley Page Hampden at that time, crews were immediately required to train in the delivery of airborne torpedo attacks, in advance of flying anti-shipping operations against Axis vessels operating in Norwegian coastal waters.

Flying from their home base at Leuchars in Fife, their Hampdens were not particularly suitable for this type of mission and initial success rates were disappointing, with many crews paying the ultimate price for their aircraft's lack of capability. Things improved from December 1943 when the unit traded their Hampdens for Beaufighters, with crew’s immediately developing tactics to maximize the impact of their capable new aircraft.

Operating in tandem with No.489 Squadron (RNZAF), the two formed the 'ANZAC Strike Wing' using the combined strength of both squadrons to launch devastating attacks against the Axis shipping in the North Sea. Beaufighters configured as heavy fighters attacked and neutralised enemy anti-aircraft defenses before the bomb and torpedo-equipped aircraft swooped to deliver their destructive blows.

The Strike Wing's tactics proved so effective that they were later called upon to clear the sea lanes of the English Channel in the months leading up to D-Day, paying particular attention to the E-boats which posed such a threat to Allied invasion planning.

The Beaufighter was built because of Bristol’s foresight and was company funded. It was built as a long-range fighter using parts that were available from the earlier Beaufort. Using these parts made it possible to complete the first aircraft a little more than 8 months after the concept. The Beaufighter was over shadowed by the Mosquito’s success but it was the Beau that was there in 1940 and 1941 helping to defeat the German night “Blitz”. The Beau served in the Pacific as well as Europe. The Japanese referred to the aircraft as “Whispering Death” because of its ability to strike and disappear so quickly. The final Beaufighter was built on September 21, 1945, making aircraft 5,562.


Corgi is a leading manufacturer of high quality, pre-built, diecast model airplanes. Every model is crafted with meticulous attention to details, using specifications of the original aircraft. Corgi models are made with diecast metal and some plastic components.

This model of a Beaufighter TF.X features: