The plastic model kit Aoshima 05104 represents one of the most famous aircraft carriers of the 20th century – the British HMS Illustrious in 1/700 scale. The replica belongs to the renowned Water Line series, which enjoys great popularity among modelers building ships from the World War II era.

Model Features and Technical Information

• Material: high-quality plastic; the model is intended for self-assembly and painting.
• Scale: 1/700 – allows for faithful reproduction of deck details and carrier armament.
• Category: plastic model kit (also referred to as a waterline model, where only the part above the water surface is visible).
• Manufacturer: Aoshima – Japanese company famous for highly accurate warship models.
• Kit contents: carrier hull with realistic section divisions, sprues with carrier-based aircraft and anti-aircraft guns, decals for markings, detailed assembly instructions.
• Add-ons: the model does not include photo-etched or metal parts, which, however, does not detract from its impressive appearance once assembled and painted.

Historical Description and Combat Use

HMS Illustrious is the flagship of the British aircraft carrier class, which entered service in 1940. It was used by the Royal Navy during World War II and in the postwar years until its decommissioning in the 1950s. It became particularly renowned during the attack on the Italian port of Taranto (November 1940), where aircraft from her deck effectively neutralized a significant portion of the Italian fleet. Its armored flight deck was a pioneering solution that increased the ship’s survivability during air raids, as confirmed by numerous combat incidents in which HMS Illustrious sustained severe damage yet always returned to service.

Who do we recommend this model for?

We recommend the Aoshima 05104 HMS Illustrious model both to intermediate and experienced modelers interested in World War II naval battle recreations, as well as to all enthusiasts of the British Royal Navy. The 1/700 scale allows for the creation of a very detailed diorama of the ship with its carrier-based aircraft.

Build difficulty level: 3/5 – basic knowledge of ship modeling and experience working with small parts is recommended.

If you want to enrich your collection with a crucial vessel from World War II history and appreciate realism and attention to detail – this model is the perfect choice!