Airfield Tractors Standard N Mod. 1938

Plastic model kit for the British Standard N airfield tractor (1938 model)
   True 2-in-1 kit  

• 1:48 scale
• Includes parts for 2 tractors
• Clear parts and photo-etched parts included
• 6 marking options
  • HMP 448: RAF, Northern France, Winter 1939–40
  • JMV 372: RAF, 102nd Squadron, UK, Driffield, Yorkshire, March 1940
  • JME 720: RAF, 19th Squadron, UK, Fowlmere, Cambridgeshire, Autumn 1940
  • EHX 746: RAF, 102nd Squadron, UK, Driffield, Yorkshire, March 1940
  • HMT 400: RAF, 10th Operational Training Unit, UK, Abingdon, Berkshire, Summer 1940
  • JME 747: RAF, 19th Squadron, UK, Fowlmere, Cambridgeshire, Autumn 1940
• Unassembled, unpainted
• Paint and glue not included

The Standard N airfield tractor was developed in 1938 by the British Standard Motor Company for the Royal Air Force (RAF) and was one of the first towing vehicles designed specifically for airfield operations. It was used to safely maneuver aircraft on the ground without the need to start their engines. Thanks to its low center of gravity, compact design, and relatively high weight, it offered good traction and high stability on both paved taxiways and grass airfields. The tractor was powered by a water-cooled, four-cylinder gasoline engine producing approximately 25 to 30 hp, with power transmitted to the rear wheels via a manual transmission designed for high pulling power. Despite its low top speed of around 20 km/h, the Standard N was ideally suited for towing fighter aircraft such as the Supermarine Spitfire and Hawker Hurricane, as well as light bombers and trainers. During the Second World War, it was standard equipment at almost all RAF airfields and was also used by maintenance units, depots, and flying schools. Various versions featuring minor detail changes were produced over the course of the war, yet the basic design remained unchanged. After 1945, the Standard N was gradually replaced by more powerful airfield tractors, though it remained in service for several more years. Today, only a few restored examples survive, mostly found in British aviation museums or private collections. Due to a lack of comprehensive records, specific technical details—such as engine power, weight, and production figures—vary depending on the source.