Airfix 01023 Auster Antarctic

The Auster T.7 Antarctic was a British reconnaissance and observation aircraft from the Cold War period. The machine was built in the high wing configuration. The flight of the prototype took place in 1955 - only two copies of this machine were built in the same year. The drive was provided by a single engine de Havilland Gipsy Major VII with a power of 145 HP. The machine was 7.24 meters long with a wingspan of 10.97 meters. The machine did not have on-board weapons. The Auster T.7 Antarctic was created for the 1956 expedition to Antarctica organized by the countries of the British Commonwealth of Nations. The machine was designed as a modernization of the Auster AOP. 6 military observation aircraft. Compared to its prototype, the machine had much more extensive communication equipment and a reinforced hull. It could also be equipped with a float or a skis, which made it easier to operate in Antarctica. Both Auster T.7 Antarctic were also painted yellow, which made their identification easier.