Airfix 40003 - 1:72 Eurofighter Typhoon FGR.4 Blackjack & Shorts Tucano T.1

Set of two plastic model kits: Eurofighter Typhoon FGR.4 “Blackjack” and Shorts Tucano T.1 in 1:72 scale

Airfix 40003 brings together two recognisable RAF display aircraft: the modern Eurofighter Typhoon FGR.4 and the Shorts Tucano T.1 trainer. Both are reproduced in striking, all-black schemes with Union Flag accents, typical of airshow appearances.

The Eurofighter is reproduced in the markings of ZJ914 “Blackjack” of the Typhoon Display Team from 2021–2024, and the Shorts Tucano T.1 in a black scheme from 2008 prepared for the 90th anniversary of the RAF. It is a good project for modellers building up their skills.

What's in the box:

• Two plastic kits: Eurofighter Typhoon FGR.4 and Shorts Tucano T.1
• Decal sheet for markings of both aircraft (black RAF display schemes)
• Paint guides and illustrated assembly instructions

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:72
• Catalogue number: A40003
• Manufacturer: Airfix
• Assembled length: Eurofighter approx. 22 cm, Shorts Tucano approx. 13.5 cm
• Number of parts: 91 (total for both models)
• Difficulty: intermediate

Note: This kit does not include glue, paints or modelling tools. The model is intended for self-assembly.

Building the model:

The set contains two models of different character. The key to a striking result is even, smooth black coverage and clean application of the Union Flag accents (red, white and blue) and the decals. Apply decals over a gloss coat and finish the aircraft in gloss or satin, as is typical of display aircraft.

Recommended tools:

• Modelling side cutters for removing parts from the sprues
• Hobby knife or scalpel
• Files and sandpaper for cleaning up sprue gate marks
• Plastic cement (e.g. Tamiya Extra Thin Cement)
• Brushes in various sizes
• Modelling paints (acrylic or enamel)
• A wash to bring out the detail

About the aircraft – Eurofighter Typhoon FGR.4 and Shorts Tucano T.1:

The Eurofighter Typhoon FGR.4 is a modern, multirole fighter that forms the backbone of the British RAF. Powered by two jet engines, it reaches supersonic speeds. Selected aircraft, presented in commemorative schemes, appear regularly at air shows.

The Shorts Tucano T.1 is a turboprop training aircraft that served for about three decades as the RAF's basic trainer, until its withdrawal in 2019. Individual aircraft were presented in striking display schemes, including a black scheme for the 90th anniversary of the RAF.

Specifications of the originals:

• Eurofighter Typhoon FGR.4 — length: approx. 16 m; span: approx. 11 m
• Eurofighter — powerplant: two Eurojet EJ200 turbojets; speed approx. Mach 2
• Shorts Tucano T.1 — length: approx. 9.9 m; span: approx. 11.3 m
• Shorts Tucano — powerplant: turboprop engine; role: training aircraft
• Shorts Tucano — RAF service: 1989–2019

About the manufacturer – Airfix:

Airfix is one of the most recognisable British brands of plastic model kits, with a tradition reaching back to the 1950s. The brand offers a broad range of models in popular scales — aircraft, military vehicles, ships and figures — from simple kits for beginners to detailed models for advanced builders. Airfix kits are graded by skill level, which makes it easy to match a kit to a modeller's experience. Under the Vintage Classics range the brand reissues classic tooling prized by collectors. The kits are known for clear instructions and an accessible build.