The Spitfire Mk.Vb Trop is a variant of the Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Vb adapted for operation in tropical and desert regions such as North Africa and the Mediterranean. The main difference from the standard model is the distinctive large air filter equipped on the underside of the aircraft. Main Features and Differences from the Standard Model Feature | Spitfire Mk.Vb Trop | Standard Spitfire Mk.Vb ---|---|--- Operational Regions | Tropical and desert regions (North Africa, Mediterranean, Burma, Australia) | Primarily the European front Major Differences | Equipped with a large Vokes air filter on the underside of the engine | Standard small air intake Other Equipment | Large oil coolant tank, desert survival kit | Standard equipment Impact on Performance | Slightly reduced top speed and climb rate due to increased air resistance from the air filter | Slightly superior performance due to the absence of a filter Armament | One 20mm Hispano Mk.II cannon and two 7.7mm Browning machine guns in each wing | Same Camouflage | Two-tone camouflage of dark earth and middle stone, suitable for desert environments | Camouflage patterns for the European front "Trop" is an abbreviation of "Tropical," and modifications were made to prevent damage to the engine from sand and dust. While the air filter restricted airflow and slightly reduced engine performance, it was essential equipment for operation in harsh desert environments. This item is old. There are clear tape marks in four places. It has been stored shrink-wrapped, so there is no major damage, but there is some fading. ❗Please note that there is no Japanese description. Please refrain from purchasing if you are sensitive to imperfections. It will be wrapped in cushioning material and shipped in a handmade paper bag. ☆Price reduction is not possible.