John Jenkins Knights of the Skies AIRCO DH-2 No 24 Sqn L. Hawker November 1916
Rare WWI Fighter Ace Commemorative Now at Historia Emporium
Historia Emporium – The History Store is pleased to spotlight a newly listed treasure for collectors of World War I aviation: the John Jenkins Knights of the Skies AIRCO DH-2 No 24 Sqn L. Hawker November 1916 in 1:30 scale. This highly collectible limited edition model captures one of the most storied aircraft and pilots of the Great War—a finely detailed replica of the pusher biplane flown by Britain’s first widely known fighter ace, Major Lanoe Hawker, VC, DSO.
The Airco DH-2 was designed by Geoffrey de Havilland for the Aircraft Manufacturing Company and entered frontline service in February 1916. It was the first effectively armed British single-seat fighter, using a pusher configuration to mount a forward-firing Lewis .303 machine gun before synchronization gears were developed. The DH-2 proved superior to the German Fokker E.III and helped end the "Fokker Scourge"—a period of German air superiority that had cost the Allies dearly. Its Gnôme Monosoupape 100 hp rotary engine and compact design made it highly maneuverable with an excellent climb rate, though it was initially nicknamed "The Spinning Incinerator" due to a high accident rate among inexperienced pilots.
Major Lanoe Hawker commanded No. 24 Squadron RFC, the first all single-seat fighter squadron, which arrived in France equipped with DH-2s. Hawker was the third pilot to receive the Victoria Cross and the first widely known British ace, credited with seven victories. He was instrumental in regaining Allied air superiority in early 1916. In November 1916, Hawker flew DH-2 serial number 5964. On November 23, 1916, he was killed in a legendary 45-minute dogfight with German ace Manfred von Richthofen—"The Red Baron"—near Bapaume, France. Flying at a disadvantage in the superior Albatros D.II, Hawker's engine failed as he attempted to return to Allied lines. Richthofen described Hawker as "the British Boelcke," acknowledging him as a flying champion.
This John Jenkins model is second-hand and in excellent condition, with accessories shown as well as original box and packaging. Packaging shows some signs of age and wear. At 1:30 scale, it offers a substantial and detailed representation of the DH-2 for display or diorama use. John Jenkins Designs is renowned for its historically accurate military miniatures and limited edition releases, making this model a sought-after piece for collectors of WWI aviation and Knights of the Skies enthusiasts.
Order yours today: John Jenkins Knights of the Skies AIRCO DH-2 No 24 Sqn L. Hawker November 1916
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