Eurofighter Typhoon FGR.4 "Blackjack" & Shorts Tucano T.1 - Twin Pack

When it comes to specially presented RAF Typhoon FGR.4 display aircraft of the past 10 years, the one which served the longest on the UK airshow circuit, and was unquestionably the most patriotic in appearance was ZJ914.

Resplendent in a smart all-over black Aggressor scheme, the aircraft also benefited from union flag style markings and an RAF roundel on each side of its tail, and no matter what the weather, when this aircraft displayed with afterburners engaged, it was an aviation sight to behold.

The scheme was similar to the one worn by the RAF Shorts Tucano T.1 display during the 2008 season, which also had a black airframe, with red, white and blue detailing to mark the 90th anniversary of the Royal Air Force. Two Tucanos were presented in this manner: ZF210 and ZE338, with one serving as a reserve should the assigned display aircraft become unserviceable.

The Tucano was the RAFs basic training aircraft for 30 years, prior to its service withdrawal in 2019. In the continuation of a now popular tradition, Typhoon ZJ914 also inherited a name by which all enthusiasts referred to her, as she became Blackjack. The aircraft wore this popular scheme for three full display seasons and even throughout the early months of display work up to the 2024 airshow season.

So, is it any wonder that Blackjack became one of the most popular aircraft to have represented the Royal Air Force during the 21st century? 'Blackjack' and the aircraft which inspired her look are now both ready to build in 1:72 scale - a great project for modellers startimg to find their feet in this hobby.