Corgi Aviation Archive AA39705 Hawker Hurricane Mk.IIC, Z3897 /JX-N, 1941. 1/72 Scale Diecast Model, Size: 6.75"Wingspan, 5.25" Long, Optional Up & Down Landing Gear, Armaments & Display Stand Are Included, Limited Edition Worldwide.

The Hawker Hurricane earned its legendary status during the Battle of Britain, destroying more enemy aircraft than all of Britain's other defences combined. By the summer of 1940, even as Hurricanes fought to stem the Luftwaffe tide, engineers were developing a major upgrade. The Hurricane Mk.II arrived with an uprated Merlin engine, but its thick, straight wing design meant it would find its true calling beyond traditional dogfighting roles.

The Hurricane IIc variant, armed with four devastating 20mm Hispano cannons, proved highly effective in coastal anti-shipping raids and low-altitude 'Rhubarb' strikes into occupied Europe. Its powerful armament excelled against ground targets, whilst the aircraft also found success as a nightfighter and 'Hurribomber' in North Africa's desert campaigns.

This particular aircraft, Z3897, gained fame through a Pathé newsreel featuring mock combat against a captured Junkers Ju88, showcasing the Hurricane's impressive manoeuvrability. The aircraft was the personal mount of Belfast-born William W. McConnell, who served with RAF No.1 Squadron from May 1941 through March 1942, becoming a noted ground attack specialist.

His Hurricane wore distinctive nose artwork that made it instantly recognisable, a testament to the personal connection between pilot and machine during those crucial wartime years.