The Nieuport 11 was one of the best of the first generation of fighters. It was extremely manoeuvrable and fast for its time and very popular with its pilots. It also set trends in fighter design that lasted many years.

When World War I commenced in 1914 there was no such thing as the fighter aeroplane. When that need became obvious a number were quickly developed, sometimes using existing aeroplanes.

The Nieuport 11 was derived from a pre-war racing aeroplane which quickly showed such potential that it was ordered by both the French and British governments.

It entered service in August 1915 and soon helped overcome earlier German dominance in the air.

It was so successful for its time that it was built in large numbers in France, Holland, Italy and Russia. It was popular with its pilots and many Aces started their careers flying them.

This model represents a French aeroplane.

Toko 1/72 kit. Completed in August 2000.