In the immediate aftermath of the Second World War, the British found themselves without any dedicated long-range maritime patrol and surveillance aircraft to counter increased Soviet naval expansion - especially its growing submarine fleet.
With the Cold War on the horizon and with it, the threat of Soviet nuclear attack, they were also without any long-range aircraft capable of delivering any nuclear retaliation.
As a stop-gap, Avro were tasked with the development and production of an advanced version of the iconic WWII bomber, the Avro Lancaster.
The Shackleton was Installed with the latest anti-submarine electronics for its anti-submarine warfare (ASW) mission, whilst also providing a much improved crew environment to accommodate the long mission times involved in patrol work.
Flown by the British and South African airforces, the Shackleton had a crew of ten comprising: two pilots, two navigators, a flight engineer, an air electronics officer, and four air electronics operators the aircraft underwent numerous upgrades to keep pace with advances in Soviet naval technology.
To that end it was also equipped with nuclear depth charges to counter the Soviet’s new deep diving submarine fleet and silent running power-plants
With a production date of 1949, this Air Ministry stamped Mk 9G 6/A3146 490kt Airspeed Indicator was installed immediately in front of both the pilot and co-pilot’s main instrument flying panels.
With its undamaged bakelite case and clear, scratch-free glass face, this Air Ministry 490kt Air Speed Indicator presents an amazing opportunity to secure a rare piece of Cold War aviation history from an operational Avro Shackleton.
Mounted on a stylish 100yr old Mango Wood Display Stand with engraved plaque and a highly detailed 1/72 scale model of this British Avro Shackleton perched above on its magnetic display arm and detailed Fact Sheet, it’s an ideal gift for any aviation enthusiast.
This Avro Shackleton Instrument comes complete with detailed Scale Model, Mango Wood Stand & Plaque plus Printed Fact Sheet featuring photo of instrument in aircraft cockpit.
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Your Avro Shackleton Air Ministry 490kt Air Speed Indicator, Original Recovery Curios Warbird Collectable includes:
The highly detailed 1/72 scale hand-built and airbrushed plastic model is available with landing gear and flaps 'up or down' and comes with a choice of two Squadron markings and camouflage.
Upon order placement you will receive an email asking for your preferred configuration.
Your complete Recovery Curios Original Instrument Collectable is securely packed and delivery normally takes between 4 - 6 weeks approx.
Did you fly, crew or maintain a Avro Shackleton or have a friend, colleague or family member who did? Check out our PERSONALISED ORIGINAL INSTRUMENT COLLECTABLE OPTION here.