Westland Wyvern S.4

The Wyvern was a mythical creature with the forelegs of a dragon and the spiny tail of a snake, and of course, a nasty creature!
The Westland Wyvern was the last fixed-wing aircraft design from the Westland Aircraft Co. and one of the last propeller-driven fighters. It was a very large aircraft, weighing about as much as a DC-3 but larger—and twice as powerful—as a P-47 Thunderbolt.
Its twin contra-rotating propellers certainly gave it the same mean-looking appearance as its fictional predecessor. Four converted and 87 newly built aircraft of the main Wyvern version, the TF.4, later renamed the S.4, were delivered.
The TF.4 featured numerous minor changes.
Its distinguishing feature was the truncated engine inlet, with the propeller spinner now projecting much further forward. Small rectangular fins were added to the horizontal tailplane, the ailerons were modified, Martin-Baker Mk. 2B ejection seats were installed, and the cockpit was reinforced.
Later modifications included perforated dive brakes, a flat windshield, and provisions for wingtip fuel tanks.
The Wyvern units were 827, 813, 830, and 831. In November 1956, 830 and 831 Squadrons participated in the Suez Campaign.

Plastic model kit

• with photo-etched parts

Scale 1:48

unbuilt / unpainted

Paint and glue not included