Name: Spitfire LF.IXE Soviet Version 1:48 Model Kit by ICM
Brand: SCH Models
SKU: ICM48066
Price: 13.99 GBP
Availability: InStock

Spitfire LF.IXE Soviet Version 1:48 Model Kit by ICM

£13.99

Model Features

1:48 scale plastic model kit
Accurately represents the Supermarine Spitfire LF.IXE in Soviet Air Defence service
Highly detailed cockpit with authentic instrument panel and controls
Finely engraved panel lines and realistic surface detail
Detailed Rolls-Royce Merlin engine
Optional canopy position
Accurate "E" wing armament configuration
Detailed landing gear and wheel wells
Authentic Soviet Air Force markings for the 67th Guards Fighter Aviation Regiment (1944)
Precision-moulded plastic parts
Waterslide decal sheet included
Illustrated assembly instructions
Ideal for World War II aviation collections, Lend-Lease displays, or Soviet Air Force diorama projects

Specifications

Brand: ICM
Scale: 1:48
Subject: Supermarine Spitfire LF.IXE (Soviet Version)
Material: Injection-moulded plastic
Skill Level: Suitable for intermediate modellers
Paint & Glue Required: Yes (sold separately)
Recommended Age: 14+
Parts: 135
Model Length: 202mm
Wingspan: 207mm

What's in the Box

Plastic sprues
Clear canopy parts
Detailed engine components
Waterslide decal sheet featuring Soviet Air Force markings
Illustrated assembly instructions

History of the Original Aircraft

The Supermarine Spitfire LF Mk.IXE was one of the most successful variants of Britain's legendary Spitfire fighter and played a vital role during the latter half of the Second World War. Developed to counter the introduction of the German Focke-Wulf Fw 190, the Mk.IX combined the proven Spitfire airframe with the more powerful Rolls-Royce Merlin 66 engine, producing a fighter with exceptional low- and medium-altitude performance.

The LF (Low Flying) designation identified aircraft powered by engines optimised for operations at lower altitudes, making them highly effective in fighter sweeps, bomber escort missions, and ground attack operations. The "E" wing introduced a revised armament arrangement consisting of two 20mm Hispano Mk.II cannons and two .50 calibre Browning machine guns, providing greater firepower while simplifying maintenance.

Although designed for the Royal Air Force, the Spitfire Mk.IX was also supplied to Allied nations through military aid programmes. Beginning in 1944, the Soviet Union received more than 1,100 Spitfire Mk.IXs under the Lend-Lease programme. Unlike earlier Spitfire variants, which saw limited use on the Eastern Front, the LF Mk.IXE was highly regarded for its excellent climb rate, speed, and high-altitude performance.

In Soviet service, these aircraft were assigned primarily to the PVO (Soviet Air Defence Forces) rather than frontline tactical units. Their principal role was intercepting high-altitude German reconnaissance aircraft and defending major cities, industrial centres, and strategic installations. By the time the aircraft entered service, the Luftwaffe's presence over Soviet territory had diminished considerably, meaning relatively few Spitfires engaged in air combat despite their outstanding capabilities.

The Spitfire LF Mk.IXE remained in Soviet service until the immediate post-war years before being replaced by new generation jet fighters. It remains one of the finest piston-engined fighters ever built and stands as an enduring symbol of Allied aviation engineering and international wartime cooperation.