Product Description

Revell 1/48 Panavia Tornado IDS

The Panavia Tornado IDS (Interdictor/Strike) was one of the most capable low-level attack aircraft of the Cold War era. Developed jointly by Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom, the Tornado combined high speed, terrain-following radar, and variable-sweep wings to deliver precision strikes deep behind enemy lines.

Revell's 1/48 scale Tornado IDS captures the aggressive appearance of this famous strike aircraft with finely engraved panel lines, detailed cockpit components, full weapons options, and movable swing wings. The model can be displayed in various wing sweep positions, showcasing one of the Tornado's most distinctive features.

Whether finished as a Luftwaffe, Italian Air Force, or NATO strike aircraft, the completed model makes an impressive addition to any Cold War or modern military aircraft collection.

Features

• Scale: 1/48

• Manufacturer: Revell Germany

• Subject: Panavia Tornado IDS

• Variable-sweep wings

• Detailed cockpit with instrument panel decals

• Detailed landing gear and wheel wells

• External fuel tanks and weapons load

• Finely recessed panel lines

• Detailed engine intake assemblies

• Large decal sheet with squadron markings

• Comprehensive instruction booklet

Finished Model Dimensions

• Length: Approximately 14 inches (356mm)

• Wingspan: Variable depending on wing position

Skill Level

Intermediate to Advanced

Due to the aircraft's complex intake and fuselage design, some modeling experience is recommended.

Paint & Glue Required

Paint and cement required for assembly and sold separately.

Historical Background

Entering service in the late 1970s, the Tornado IDS became NATO's premier low-level strike aircraft during the Cold War. Designed to penetrate Warsaw Pact air defenses at high speed and low altitude, the aircraft served with Germany, Italy, Saudi Arabia, and the United Kingdom.

The Tornado saw combat during the Gulf War, operations over the Balkans, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya. Its variable-geometry wings provided excellent performance across a wide range of missions, from high-speed strike operations to long-range interdiction missions.

Review Summary

What Modelers Like

• Excellent overall shape and accuracy

• Impressive surface detail

• Good value compared to newer-tool competitors

• Attractive decal options

• Variable-sweep wing mechanism works well

• Builds into a very impressive display model

Many builders praise the kit's appearance and level of detail, particularly considering its price point.

Things to Consider

• Intake assemblies require careful fitting

• Multi-piece fuselage can create seam challenges

• Cockpit benefits from aftermarket detailing

• Some builders report significant test-fitting is required throughout construction

• Not as straightforward as a comparable Tamiya kit.

Working Title Models Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ 4.0/5

The Revell Tornado IDS offers excellent value and captures the look of the real aircraft very well. While it demands patience during assembly, experienced modelers can achieve an outstanding result.