I hadn't heard the name Pioneer applied to the E28/39; how appropriate! Looking forward to seeing the build. This week I start my first 'kit-bash' (my 6th build) which is a Zinzan inspired 1/144 TSR2 - but an interceptor variant. I'm thinking of shortening the forward fuselage and adding a Phantom radome, and perhaps modifying the wings. I also have a Tornado F3 which might supply the front end. I see this as a relatively cheap way of prototyping before perhaps trying it at 1/72 or even 1/48.
Thank you for writing- your TSR2 project sounds intriguing. There have been one or two "maybe this" projects I have seen on the internet over the last few years and I note that decal sets are available for a number of Air Forces around the world.
I think your plan is a good one and it would be good to see the result!
I have one other idea, which will be easier to execute, and that is a Wild Weasel/SEAD version. Only a matter of external stores and paint scheme to pull this one off. Possibly one for the 1/48 build.
Hi Zinzan - the world owes lot to Sir Frank. Have you been to Farnborough ther is a replica of that aircraft on one of the roundabouts ( I used to pass it every morning when I worked at QinetiQ ) - also an old friend who I re acquainted with just after Covid, after 40 years, told me he lives in a house in Surrey ( he’s a 777 captain for BA ) where Frank used to stay when he worked at Farnborough. The chap who owned the house previously worked alongside Frank in developing the engines.
I gathered that there was a memorial there, but haven't been past it. I used to pass by the Lutterworth Pioneer when I worked up that way. I gather that Power Jets was based nearby.
There is still a lot of interest in the subject of Sir Frank Whittle and I gather that it is possible to see talks given by people in the know about the history.
Thanks very much for writing- I am glad you met your friend again. I hope you stay in contact.
Hi Zinzan - no worries i enjoy your musings and this one was close to me. The model is atop the Sir Frank Whttle memorial (apt).
My friend yes - that was weird, we spoke at length whilst he was in Honk Kong in isolation (Covid) - he also flew the BA 777 bearing Sir Franks name (G-ZZZA) and has part of the engine in Frank’s old office in his house.
We plan a re union from all the enthusiasts ( plane spotters ) from 1979 - 1981 era from Leeds Bradford Airport!
I hadn't heard the name Pioneer applied to the E28/39; how appropriate! Looking forward to seeing the build. This week I start my first 'kit-bash' (my 6th build) which is a Zinzan inspired 1/144 TSR2 - but an interceptor variant. I'm thinking of shortening the forward fuselage and adding a Phantom radome, and perhaps modifying the wings. I also have a Tornado F3 which might supply the front end. I see this as a relatively cheap way of prototyping before perhaps trying it at 1/72 or even 1/48.
Dear Phil,
Thank you for writing- your TSR2 project sounds intriguing. There have been one or two "maybe this" projects I have seen on the internet over the last few years and I note that decal sets are available for a number of Air Forces around the world.
I think your plan is a good one and it would be good to see the result!
Regards,
Z
I have one other idea, which will be easier to execute, and that is a Wild Weasel/SEAD version. Only a matter of external stores and paint scheme to pull this one off. Possibly one for the 1/48 build.
Good luck sir!!
Regards,
Z
Hi Zinzan - the world owes lot to Sir Frank. Have you been to Farnborough ther is a replica of that aircraft on one of the roundabouts ( I used to pass it every morning when I worked at QinetiQ ) - also an old friend who I re acquainted with just after Covid, after 40 years, told me he lives in a house in Surrey ( he’s a 777 captain for BA ) where Frank used to stay when he worked at Farnborough. The chap who owned the house previously worked alongside Frank in developing the engines.
Dear Neil,
I gathered that there was a memorial there, but haven't been past it. I used to pass by the Lutterworth Pioneer when I worked up that way. I gather that Power Jets was based nearby.
There is still a lot of interest in the subject of Sir Frank Whittle and I gather that it is possible to see talks given by people in the know about the history.
Thanks very much for writing- I am glad you met your friend again. I hope you stay in contact.
Best regards,
Z
Hi Zinzan - no worries i enjoy your musings and this one was close to me. The model is atop the Sir Frank Whttle memorial (apt).
My friend yes - that was weird, we spoke at length whilst he was in Honk Kong in isolation (Covid) - he also flew the BA 777 bearing Sir Franks name (G-ZZZA) and has part of the engine in Frank’s old office in his house.
We plan a re union from all the enthusiasts ( plane spotters ) from 1979 - 1981 era from Leeds Bradford Airport!