Hobby Master 1:48 Tomahawk Mk. IIB ' Clive Killer Caldwell ' LD-C, 250 Sqn., RAF

In 1942, Clive Caldwell, Australia's top WWII fighter ace, flew the Curtiss P-40 Tomahawk in North Africa with the RAF's No. 112 Squadron. Known for its shark-mouth nose art, the Tomahawk was rugged and reliable, though outclassed by German Bf 109s. Caldwell skillfully exploited its strengths - excellent diving speed and durability - earning several kills during this period. His aggressive tactics and gunnery skill made him a respected and feared pilot. Despite early aircraft limitations, Caldwell adapted quickly to desert warfare, becoming a key figure in the air campaign over Libya and Egypt, boosting morale and proving the value of Allied airpower.

Curtiss Tomahawk Mk II

Designed to meet a USAAC requirement for a pursuit aircraft, the P-40 Warhawk was first flown on October 14th, 1938. This aircraft was tough, virtually trouble-free and saw continual improvements to arms, armor and engines. The P-40 served in numerous combat areas; often outclassed by its adversaries in speed, maneuverability and rate of climb, it earned a reputation for extreme ruggedness. Its strong construction, heavy firepower, and ability to dive enabled it to compete with enemy fighters, and it was a formidable ground-attack aircraft. P-40s were also flown by the famed Flying Tigers against the Japanese in China.