Bomb - WW1 British 550lb H.E.R.L. (Set of 2)

Comprising: Two historically accurate scale models in high-resolution, unpainted, 3D-printed resin. Available in your choice of 1/32, 1/48, or 1/72 scale.

History: As British heavy-bomber capabilities increased toward the latter phase of the Great War, the Royal Flying Corps and Royal Naval Air Service introduced heavier high-explosive aerial bombs beyond earlier 112lb and 230lb patterns. Among these was the 550lb aerial bomb, a cast-steel–cased high-explosive weapon developed and standardized under War Office ordnance procedures and produced in quantity by the Royal Laboratory and contracted manufacturers.

By 1917–1918, production of the 550lb bomb was increasing alongside other heavy types, such as the 520lb model. It was employed operationally with the largest British multi-engine bombers of the period in both strategic and tactical roles, carried internally or on external racks depending on aircraft design and mission profile.

Operational Use: Records of squadron operations from 1918 show this bomb in combat use against aerodromes and infrastructure targets, indicating its integration into British aerial bombing doctrine before the end of the war. Documented to have equipped several aircraft, including the Blackburn Kangaroo; Phoenix Cork; Royal Aircraft Factory R.E.7; Short Bros. Admiralty Type 184 and Short Bomber; Sopwith Cuckoo; and Vickers F.B.27 Vimy and Virginia.

Note: Images may include digital renderings of the actual 3D designs used to produce this scale model. Each scale is customized to ensure the highest level of detail and historical accuracy, while balancing the limitations of the printing process to produce the most pleasing results.