Corgi Aviation Archive Series Diecast Model

Royal Aircraft Factory SE5a - F8005, Lt. John Rorison, 25th Aero Squadron, United States Army Air Service (USAAS), late 1918

1:48 Scale.  Length: 5.25".  Wingspan: 6.75"


Limited Edition of 1,000 Models Worldwide

After World War I the SE5a was removed from the RAF's inventory, replaced by more capable types such as the Sopwith Snipe. However, the SE5a had also found a home with an American unit, the 25th Aero Squadron. Still warming up on this aircraft at the end of hostilities, the 25th did not see any combat, flying only a small number of patrols before the armistice in 1918. The SE5s of the 25th were not equipped with the Lewis gun normally mounted on the top wing, this was supplied after the war ended, so they went on their missions with just a single Vickers gun as armament. This aircraft was flown by Lt. John Rorison, previously of the RAF. After the war the USAAS continued to use the S.E.5a as a pursuit trainer.

The third SE5 produced (A4563) became, in effect, the prototype SE5a with a 200-hp Hispano Suiza power plant and shorter wingspan. The SE5a built a reputation for strength, performance and general flying quality, which together with the Sopwith Camel were the main reasons for the Allies gaining and maintaining air superiority during 1918. Some aircraft were fitted with four 25-lb (11 kg) Cooper bombs under fuselage rack. The SE5a was one of aviation’s great warplanes.


Corgi is a manufacturer of high quality, pre-built, die-cast display models. Every model is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using the specifications of the original aircraft or vehicle. This model is made with diecast metal and some plastic components.

This model of an S.E.5a features: