The Firefly entered service in 1943 and was improved further by fitting a more powerful 1990hp Griffon engine. Some were modified to carry the ASH (ship detection) radar and some were modified as night fighters with the AI (airborne interception) radar.  The Mk IV and V featured a new nose and a 2100hp Griffon engine.

The Firefly’s first major action came in July 1944 with the Fleet Air Arm’s attacks against the Tirpitz, flying from HMS Indefatigable. HMS Indefatigable transferred to the far East along with her sister HMS Implacable, both ships carrying Fireflies. The main role of the Firefly was attacking ground targets with rockets, prior to infantry attacks. This said the Fireflies did also gain some air to air victories against Japanese aircraft.

Firefly Mk V’s served in the Korean war aboard HMS Theseus, HMS Glory, HMS Ocean and HMS Triumph . They also were involved in the ground attack role in Malaya in 1954, flying from HMS Warrior.

The very successful Firefly also served in many non combat roles, such as target tug, trainer and even in the Anti Submarine role.

 Special Hobby is a Czech based manufacturer and this is their 1/72 Fairey Firefly Mk IV/V kit.  This is a detailed multimedia kit, consisting of mostly injection moulded plastic parts but with additional resin and photo etch metal parts.

Markings are provided for 3 different Fireflies: FR Mk IV, Dutch Marine Air Force, Dutch East Indies, 1959; Firefly Mk V No 821 sqd FAA, HMS Glory, Korea, 1953 and Firefly Mk V No 880 sqd RCAN, HMCS Magnificent, May 1951.