Corgi AA39705 Hawker Hurricane Mk.IIC, Die Cast Model Plane Z3897 /JX-N, 1941, Aviation, for ages A14+, Diecast Aircraft Adults & Collectors 14+, Aviation Archive

The upgrade was driven by the latest development of the famous Merlin engine, and whilst this did provide the Hurricane Mk.II with a welcome performance boost, the thick, straight wing of the aircraft dictated that it wasn't suitable for day fighter operations against enemy fighters. A Path newsreel film of the day featured this aircraft, Z3897, and its distinctive nose artwork, being flown in mock combat against a captured Junkers Ju88, and whilst the Hurricane did have impressive manoeuvrability, this clearly wasnt an actual combat situation. Where the Hurricane IIc did prove effective was when used to mount coastal anti-shipping raids, and for low altitude Rhubarb raids into enemy occupied Europe, where its four 20mm Hispano cannon armament was effective against ground targets of opportunity. This variant also found success as a nightfighter and as a Hurribomber in the deserts of North Africa. This Hurricane was the personal mount of Belfast-born William W. McConnell, who served with RAF No.1 Squadron from May 1941, until the end of March the following year, becoming a ground attack specialist during that time.