PlaneArtsAustralia is a relative newcomer to the Australian Market but from the 6th June 2025 we will begin building up our eBay Store by gradually adding more and more models.
For many years we have been, and are still active in the UK through our eBay store "PlaneArts". If you don't find what you need here please just message us and ask for what you need, and we'll let you have pricing.
"You never really own a PlaneArts model - you merely look after it for the next generation"
The dimensions of the above model are as follows:
WINGSPAN: 10.90 INCHES (27.70 CM), LENGTH: 7.40 INCHES (18.80 CM), SCALE: 1:72
This model replica is painstakingly hand carved and then hand painted out of solid kiln dried mahogany wood (from renewable sources) by our highly experienced and talented craftsmen at our Filipino owned factory near the original Clark Air Base in Pampanga and takes about 9-10 weeks to manufacture. Production in our factory is supervised by our own resident British Pilot who ensures that exact blueprints are used for these meticulously detailed scale models custom manufactured and precisely engineered to your exact specifications and that will be cherished by all.
The model will be exactly as you see in the above and below images in terms of detailing (doors, windows, lights, control surface markings, antennas etc.) color and size so we would kindly ask you to study the images very carefully (if you require higher resolution images please ask) to make sure that the model as you see is the 100% the same version you require or expect. If there are changes that you require or mistakes or deference's in relation to the real aircraft before ordering, please message us and we will setup an alternative listing to match your own requirements. We request your understanding on this matter due to the fact that these handmade models are traveling in many cases halfway around the world and any misunderstandings or mistaken expectations must be addressed at this as point of time as we cannot be held responsible for the costs involved in returning and replacing the model. The model will be shipped with the stand you see in the images although you may request if you like to change to either 1, 6 or 7 as in the attached image examples (just message us if a change is required.
It is our aim to continue to be a "sustainable" manufacturer avoiding the use of man-made materials wherever possible such as plastics, resins or metal in an attempt to reduce our Carbon Footprint and to protect our environment for generations to come. Our models are "works of art" and not to be confused with mass made plastic kits or diecast (die cast) look-alikes. We are proud Filipino's exporting to all parts of the globe and creating employment opportunities in an impoverished part of our country.
100% handmade models naturally come at a higher price than off the shelf, plastic or diecast (die cast) models but it may interest you to know that an average regular size fixed wing or helicopter model takes on average a total of 26 dedicated Man Hours of work to produce. During this time the model transitions through over 40 different manufacturing stages and processes. The 26 hours are not consecutive and require in-between many days (and in some cases weeks) of drying and curing time as they pass from one department to another making the overall production time from an outsiders point of view appear rather lengthy. Given these facts the time period we quote for production alone is very standard for our type of industry and among our close competitors. If you are interested in what goes into making these models, there follows a summary process schedule and video. Please click on the image below to start the video which will open in a separate page in your browser (the tab on in your browser for this page will still stay open so you can go back to the eBay listing):-
PlaneArts Manufacturing Process
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The fully assembled model comes with a stained solid mahogany (or mahogany with steel arm) stand and is ready to display on your desk, bookcase or wherever you desire. The photographs you see have not been manipulated or digitally edited - they are exactly as the model looks in real life, but unfortunately even digital photography cannot do full justice to the look and feel of the model once you receive it!
PlaneArts have been producing models for over 20 years which are honed to perfection by the dexterity of our Skilled Master Craftsmen and carefully checked at all stages of manufacture by our dedicated Quality Assurance Team. We promote internationally on eBay to ensure our products get the best exposure worldwide. Due to a high level of demand and the huge diversity of aircraft types and liveries most models are made to order and take about 9-10 weeks to produce (excluding National and Public Holidays). You will also notice that we offer models often way below the price of other companies advertising on the eBay. We are able do this because of the direct manufacturing and selling basis of our business - models direct from the factory and not from an intermediary or trading / marketing company. All models are shipped internationally through FedEx, UPS or DHL Express Courier (Door to Door worldwide within about 3 business days). Fully traceable and insured against damage or loss).
Apart from those models you see in our eBay store - using your photos or images, we will make you a personalized replica model of your aircraft with your own individual paint scheme, logos, registration number, antennas and all the details that make your airplane special. You can even upgrade and personalize your model with a fully customized transparent interior to match your seats, colors, instrument panel and all other important interior details. Alternatively, we can copy any current or historic commercial or military airplane or helicopter that has ever flown just by giving us images or photos. Each meticulously detailed scale model is custom manufactured and precisely engineered to your exact specifications. We will build you a model that will not only meet your expectations but will go far beyond and with detail that will amaze you!
If you do not see the model you require in our eBay Store please message us on eBay with a description and images of what you require including the size or scale of the desired model and we will then do a dedicated listing for you on eBay. Our Customer Service Team will then help you with questions you may have and upon request update you on the status of your order. Our Production Team will work with you personally during construction until your model is ready to taxi on its journey to your own door in its foam fitted heavy duty export packaging.
To watch a video of the professional protective packing of PlaneArts models destined for all parts of the globe, please also click on the image below to start the video which will open in a separate page in your browser (the tab on in your browser for this page will still stay open so you can go back to the eBay listing)
Packing Process
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Lockheed Hudson Mk. IIIA RAF: A Pivotal Allied Maritime Patrol Aircraft
The Lockheed Hudson Mk. IIIA was a crucial component of the Royal Air Force’s (RAF) efforts during World War II, particularly in maritime patrol, anti-submarine warfare, and reconnaissance missions. Derived from the American Lockheed Model 14 Super Electra airliner, the Hudson series was one of the earliest American aircraft to be adopted by the British prior to the United States’ entry into the war. Among its variants, the Mk. IIIA holds a special place due to its American origins and versatile service record.
Origins and Development
The Lockheed Hudson was originally developed in response to a British request for a light bomber and coastal reconnaissance aircraft. In 1938, the British Purchasing Commission visited the United States and placed orders for a militarized version of the Model 14. Lockheed quickly modified the airframe, installing bomb racks, defensive armament, and military avionics. The result was the Hudson Mk I, which first flew in December 1938 and entered service with the RAF in early 1939.
As the war progressed, various improvements were made to the design, leading to multiple variants. The Mk. IIIA designation specifically referred to aircraft built under the Lend-Lease Act and was essentially equivalent to the A-29 and A-29A models used by the U.S. Army Air Forces. These aircraft were delivered to the RAF and other Commonwealth forces beginning in 1941.
Technical Specifications
The Hudson Mk. IIIA was powered by two Wright R-1820 Cyclone 9-cylinder radial engines, each producing around 1,200 horsepower. It had a maximum speed of approximately 246 mph (396 km/h), a service ceiling of about 25,000 feet (7,620 meters), and a range of over 1,700 miles (2,735 kilometers), depending on the mission configuration.
The aircraft typically carried a crew of four to five, including a pilot, co-pilot or navigator, radio operator, and gunners. Armament included a combination of fixed forward-firing machine guns and flexible mounts in dorsal and ventral positions, as well as up to 1,400 pounds (635 kilograms) of bombs or depth charges in an internal bomb bay.
Operational Role in the RAF
The Hudson Mk. IIIA played a vital role in the RAF’s Coastal Command. Its range and payload capacity made it well-suited for long overwater patrols, convoy escort duties, and anti-submarine missions. Flying from bases in the United Kingdom, Canada, Iceland, and later North Africa and Australia, Hudsons were instrumental in detecting and attacking German U-boats during the Battle of the Atlantic.
One of the defining features of the Hudson’s combat service was its adaptability. The Mk. IIIA could be quickly converted for different roles, including troop transport, search and rescue, and even clandestine missions involving the delivery and extraction of agents behind enemy lines.
Combat Record and Legacy
Despite its modest size and civilian origins, the Lockheed Hudson proved to be rugged, reliable, and remarkably effective in combat. It was among the first Allied aircraft to engage and destroy enemy submarines and aircraft in the early years of the war. Notably, in September 1939, a Hudson became the first RAF aircraft to shoot down a German plane in World War II.
The Mk. IIIA and other variants continued in front-line service until 1944, after which they were gradually replaced by larger and more specialized aircraft like the Consolidated B-24 Liberator and the Avro Lancaster for long-range roles.
After the war, many Hudsons were sold off to civilian operators or used by smaller air forces, continuing to serve in various capacities well into the post-war years.
Conclusion
The Lockheed Hudson Mk. IIIA remains a testament to the strategic cooperation between the United States and the United Kingdom during World War II. Though overshadowed by larger and more famous bombers, the Hudson was a quiet workhorse that performed a wide array of crucial missions across multiple theaters of war. Its contribution to securing the seas and supporting Allied operations cannot be understated, and its legacy endures as a symbol of early transatlantic military collaboration.
