Hobby Master 1:48 Air Power Series Die-cast Model

Messerschmitt BF 109 F-4 – "Star of Africa", Lt. Hans-Joachim Marseille, 3./JG 27, Luftwaffe, Libya, February 1942

1:48 Scale.  Length: 7.5".  Wingspan: 8.25"


Limited production of approximately 700 models worldwide

Hans-Joachim Marseille was one of Germany’s top Aces of World War II with all but 7 of his 158 victories flying a Bf-109 in Africa. This action earned him the nickname “Star of Africa”. Marseille had excellent eyesight spotting enemy aircraft before they spotted him. His attacks were carried out using speed to escape any counter fire and his marksmanship was deadly. In February 1942 he destroyed 16 aircraft. Marseille was killed when his engine failed and had to bail out, hitting the aircraft tail and unable to open his parachute.

The Messerschmitt Bf 109 was a German fighter aircraft used during World War II. First flown in 1935, it was one of the first modern fighters of the era with all-metal construction and retractable landing gear. Originally conceived as an interceptor, the Bf 109 was developed to fulfill multiple roles including bomber escort, fighter-bomber, all-weather fighter and ground-attack. Although it had weaknesses, including short range and challenging take-off and landing characteristics, the Bf 109 stayed competitive with Allied fighters until the end of the war. The Bf 109 was produced in greater numbers than any other fighter in history with 33,984 units built up to April 1945.


Hobby Master is a manufacturer of high quality, pre-built, diecast models. Each model is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using specifications of the original aircraft or vehicle. They are made with diecast metal and some plastic components.

This model of a Messerschmitt Bf 109 features: