Hobby 2000 1/48 Hawker Hurricane Mk.IIA Trop # 48016

The Hawker Hurricane Mk.IIA Trop was a variant of the British Hawker Hurricane fighter aircraft designed for tropical and desert conditions during World War II.

The "Trop" in the name stands for "tropical," indicating the adaptations made to the aircraft to handle harsh environmental conditions.

Key Features

Engine and Powerplant: The Hurricane Mk.IIA was equipped with a Rolls-Royce Merlin XX engine, which delivered better performance than earlier variants.
Armament: This variant featured either eight 0.303-inch (7.7 mm) Browning machine guns or an alternative configuration of twelve machine guns. Later models were also fitted with four 20mm Hispano cannons, significantly increasing their firepower.

Tropical Modifications:

Dust Filters: Equipped with Vokes or Rotol air filters to prevent engine damage from dust and sand.
Cooling System Enhancements: Modifications to manage engine overheating in high temperatures.
Additional Equipment: Carried a desert survival kit, including a water supply for pilots.
Role and Deployment: The Hurricane Mk.IIA Trop was primarily used in North Africa and the Middle East, participating in key campaigns such as the North African campaign. It provided crucial air support in various roles, including air superiority, ground attack, and close air support.

Performance:

Speed: Capable of reaching speeds up to 342 mph (550 km/h).
Range: Approximately 600 miles (965 km).
Service Ceiling: Around 36,000 feet (11,000 meters).

Significance

The Hawker Hurricane Mk.IIA Trop played a vital role in the RAF's operations in the Mediterranean and North African theaters, proving itself as a reliable and versatile fighter despite the challenging environmental conditions.

Its adaptations for tropical use extended the operational capabilities of the Hurricane series, making it a crucial asset in maintaining air superiority and supporting ground operations.