Airspeed A.S.51 Horsa Glider Mk.I

Plastic model kit for an Airspeed A.S. 51 Horsa Mk. I cargo glider

• Scale 1:35
• Clear and photo-etched parts included
• loaded tires
• Loading hatches can be displayed open or closed
• Access ramps for vehicles included
• 3 marking options
• without figures or vehicles
• unbuilt / unpainted
• Paint and glue not included

The “Horsa” cargo glider was manufactured during World War II by a company called “Airspeed” (a private company for sports and small training aircraft).

The Mk. I model of the cargo glider “Horsa”, which was manufactured in 1940 according to the specifications of the time, had 25 seats and was used specifically by airborne troops. In February 1941, the military awarded the company an order for 400 gliders, but this was delayed until full production began until February 1942. At this point the demand for orders had increased to 2,345 sailors. In fact, most of the glider's hull components are made of wood. Airspeed subcontracted them to furniture manufacturers for production, and the finished segmented components are handed over to Airspeed for final assembly of the entire glider. The cargo glider “Horsa” was used by British and American airborne troops from 1942 until the end of the Second World War. It could also be used to transport jeeps and small artillery pieces.

The “Horsa” Mk.I type had a wingspan of 27 meters and a length of 20 meters. The loading weight was 7000 kg.

It was usually towed by a four-engine bomber such as the Short Stirling or the Handley Page Halifax. During large airborne missions when there were not enough bombers available, these gliders were often towed by the smaller American Douglas C-47 "Dakota" transport aircraft.