Matchbox 1/72 Consolidated PBY-5 Catalina (40610)

The Consolidated PBY Catalina was the most widely used maritime patrol flying boat of the Second World War, serving with the US Navy, the RAF, the Royal Australian Air Force, the Royal Canadian Air Force, and numerous other Allied air arms across every ocean. Its long range — up to 4,000 miles — made it irreplaceable for ocean patrol, convoy escort, and search and rescue, and it was a PBY that first spotted the Bismarck during her breakout into the Atlantic in May 1941, shadowing the German battleship through the night until the Royal Navy could intercept. Catalinas also performed night torpedo attacks in the Pacific and rescued hundreds of downed aircrew throughout the war, earning a reputation for tenacity and endurance that outlasted the conflict itself.

The flying boat that found the Bismarck — and saved countless lives at sea.

This is a vintage model kit. The box has been opened — see photos. Kit appears complete, but please look at the photos carefully. Instructions and decals are present. Box has dishing of the lid and shows rubbing on all the edges.