Airfix 1/24th Spitfire IX
By Chuck Sawyer
After 14 months and likely about 8 months of actual work, I present my 1/24 Airfix Spitfire Mk IXc.
The subject is EN398, flown by Flight Lieutenant Ian Keltie in March 1943, before Wing Commander Johnnie Johnson took it over and famously placed his initials “JE-J” on the sides, replacing the Canadian 402 Squadron Code of “AE” instead. This Spitfire was responsible for many kills between the two pilots in WWII and was never shot down.
While this kit does have its challenges, I found it to be excellent overall, with fantastic surface detail and a very detailed Merlin engine, which was the focus of this build. I used quite a few aftermarket items to help me create this wartime “Spit.” Here is what I used to complete this model, all in 1/24 scale:
- Airfix Supermarine Spitfire Mk IXc Kit (A17001)
- Airscale Supermarine Spitfire Mk IX Cockpit Upgrade (PE24 MKIX)
- Airscale Spitfire Mk VIII Wheel Set (3D24 SPWL)
- Buchon Spitfire Rotol Propeller (BUC24-011)
- Eduard BRASSIN Spitfire IX Exhaust Fishtail Exhausts (624003)
- BarracudaCast Spitfire Late Control Columns (BR24502)
- HGW Spitfire Mk IX Seatbelts (124515)
- Master Spitfire Mk.IXc Hispano 20mm Cannons (AM24021)
- 1ManArmy Paint Masks (24DET016)
Since I spent so much time and effort on the engine, I didn’t bother with the cowlings which will never be used, so consider it “Under Maintenance”.
For those who might be interested, check out my detailed build thread in the Works in Progress forum.
Enjoy!
© Chuck Sawyer 2026
This article was published on Thursday, January 08 2026; Last modified on Thursday, January 08 2026