In October 1931, the British Air Ministry began preparing specifications for a new bomber to replace obsolete biplanes. Specification B.9/32 was created in August 1932, with several manufacturers competing. Handley Page’s HP.52 was selected, with its prototype completed in spring 1936. In June, it flew successfully, reaching 426 km/h and carrying over 1,800 kg of bombs. It was shown to King Edward VIII in July. On October 4, 1937, the Air Ministry approved the HP.52 Hampden B.Mk.I (named after 17th-century defender John Hampden).

Production began in spring 1938, with aircraft entering service by autumn. By July 1940, Handley Page produced 500 units. English Electric joined production in February 1940, building 770 more by March 1942. Canadian production followed. From the start of WWII, the HP.52 Hampden was actively used against Germany, conducting ground attacks, bombing raids, ship attacks, and mine-laying. It served with Bomber Command until autumn 1942, then transferred to Coastal Command from spring 1942, where many became torpedo bombers.

Model Features

• ICM's first model of the HP. 52 Hampden bomber
• Detailed rivets on the fuselage, wings, and tail
• Accurate geometry and proportions of the real aircraft with detailed cockpit equipment
• Includes various bomb types for the bomb bay and under-wing placement
• Decals with markings for four aircraft, including the first production example

Markings Available

• HP.52 Hampden B.Mk.I L4032, the first production Hampden, Radlett, June 1938
• HP.52 Hampden B.Mk.I L4085, No. 44 (Rhodesia) Squadron, Waddington, February 1939
• HP.52 Hampden B.Mk.I L4076, No. 50 Squadron, Waddington, September 1939
• HP.52 Hampden B.Mk.I P1272, Torpedo Development Unit, December 1939

Model Information

• Scale: 1:48
• Number of Parts: 350 pieces
• Length: 341 mm
• Width: 442 mm
• Includes detailed assembly instructions
• Highly detailed sprues with high accuracy made from quality plastic
• Box size: 410 x 260 x 55 mm