The Fairey Swordfish from HMS Ark Royal—the hero of Operation Rheinübung—the aircraft that stopped the Bismarck!
Build one of the most extraordinary aircraft of World War II and discover a story forever etched in the annals of naval warfare!
Fairey Swordfish aircraft—unassuming biplanes with a distinctive silhouette—became the heroes of one of the most dramatic naval operations: the hunt for the battleship Bismarck.
By building this model you will uncover a story of courage, naval combat tactics and one of the most dramatic clashes in the Atlantic.
Key features of the Fairey Swordfish (HMS Ark Royal) set:
Model of the historic Fairey Swordfish aircraft—a faithful recreation of the silhouette of this legendary British torpedo biplane.
959 elements—a large, satisfying model in the classic 1:32 scale, providing many hours of engaging building.
3 figures—allowing you to recreate historical scenes and enhancing the model's display:
• Pilot—wearing a faithfully recreated blue uniform and peaked cap. The figure features interchangeable headgear: a classic aviator helmet, essential for flight.
• Navigator/Bombardier and Gunner/Observer—both figures wear classic, faithfully recreated attire, including aviator helmets and heavy flight jackets designed for aircrews.
Collector's display stand—a stable and elaborate base allowing you to impressively showcase the model in a dynamic position.
Collector’s Plaque – A unique feature: a black plaque displaying the model name, scale and details regarding its participation in Operation Rheinübung—the mission during which the battleship Bismarck was sunk.
Executive Edition — This is a special, collector’s version of the Fairey Swordfish aircraft model from HMS Ark Royal. This exclusive edition includes the model itself, along with a black display plaque, an elaborate collector’s stand and three minifigures.
Historical Inspiration – The set pays tribute to the famous air raid launched from the aircraft carrier HMS Ark Royal against the battleship Bismarck.
Replicated Armament – The aircraft is armed with a replica of a 7.7 mm Vickers machine gun. Mounted beneath the fuselage is a brick-built torpedo—an 18-inch Mark XII. Designed for aerial deployment, it features reduced weight and explosive payload, yet is relatively fast once in the water.
High-Quality Prints – Durable markings, applied directly to the bricks without the use of stickers, ensure the model retains its excellent appearance for years to come.
Satisfying Building Experience – Clear, easy-to-follow instructions guide you step-by-step through every stage of assembly.
For Play and Display – Once assembled, the "Swordfish" becomes an impressive centerpiece for any collection of historical aircraft models.
Expand Your Collection – Explore other sets from COBI and build your own collection of historical models. Our 1:48 scale models offer a fresh perspective on military modeling and serve as an excellent complement to our 1:35 scale series.
Fairey Swordfish
The Fairey Swordfish was a British carrier-based torpedo bomber developed by Fairey Aviation in the early 1930s. This biplane, featuring a metal fuselage covered in fabric, served with the Royal Navy’s Fleet Air Arm. It was prized for its reliability, stability and capacity to carry torpedoes, bombs and depth charges. Consequently, it earned the nickname "Stringbag"—a reference to a bag that could hold just about anything. Swordfish aircraft distinguished themselves in numerous engagements, including the Battle of Taranto and the attack on the battleship Bismarck.
The Aircraft Carrier HMS Ark Royal
One of the key bases for Swordfish aircraft was the aircraft carrier HMS Ark Royal. She was a vital vessel in the Royal Navy fleet. At the outbreak of the war, she operated in both the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. It was from her flight deck that the aircraft launched to execute the decisive torpedo attack on the Bismarck.
The Hunt for the Bismarck
Operation Rheinübung, launched in May 1941, aimed to break the Allied stranglehold on the Atlantic. The battleship Bismarck and the cruiser Prinz Eugen were tasked with attacking Allied convoys. Following the sinking of HMS Hood, a dramatic hunt ensued. Winston Churchill issued a direct order: "Sink the Bismarck!"
On May 26, Swordfish aircraft from the Ark Royal attacked the Bismarck amidst severe weather conditions, damaging her steering mechanism. Crippled and unable to maneuver, the ship was overtaken by British naval units on May 27 and sunk.
An unassuming and slow biplane, yet it was the Fairey Swordfish that went down in history as one of the most effective aircraft of World War II. Now you can recreate this legend using building blocks and display on your shelf the very machine that played a pivotal role in one of the most dramatic naval chases in history. Build your own "Stringbag," discover the history of Operation Rheinübung, and let this Royal Navy legend take pride of place in your collection.

• 959 high-quality elements
• Manufactured in the EU by a company with over 35 years of tradition
• Meet safety standards for children's products
• Fully compatible with other brands of construction blocks
• Clear and intuitive instructions based on drawings and icons
• Scale 1:32

Model dimensions (L x W x H): 340 x 430 x 105 mm

Warning: not suitable for children under 36 months. Contains small parts which may cause choking hazard if swallowed. We recommend keeping the packaging for reference. Colours and styles may vary.