Revell 1/144 Bombardier Challenger CL-601 / 604 Luftwaffe (04212)

Revell 1/144 Bombardier Challenger CL-601 / 604 Luftwaffe (04212) | Antics Online

Contact Mail Order Hotline on 01453 825381 or email to enquiries@antics.ltd.uk

Secure Ordering & Free UK Delivery
for orders over £40.00 (more)

> Plastic Kits > Aircraft & Helicopters > Revell & Monogram > 1/144 Aircraft Kits

Revell 1/144 Bombardier Challenger CL-601 / 604 Luftwaffe (04212)

The CL 601 has been in service with the German Federal Ministry of Defence VIP-Unit since 1986. It is primarily used by politicans and cabinet members on official duty. There has been some recent criticism over its use following allegedly private flights. The aircraft is also used for transport duties, courier flights and ambulance sorties.

The Challenger evolved out of a design by Bill Lear, designer of the Lear Jet. In 1976, Canadair acquired the rights to build the aircraft and designated it the CL-600. The prototype completed its maiden flight on the 8 November 1978 after which it became clear that the design could be considerably improved upon. Amongst other things the engines did not produce the required performance. Given the characteristic winglets and new engines designated General Electric CF-34 the CL-600 was re-designated CL-601 and replaced the CL-600 in 1983. In 1986 Canadair were taken over by the Bombardier Group who had to modify the CL-601 in accordance with the wishes of corporate customers. Thus evolved the CL-604 with a higher take-off weight of almost 22 tons so that a new improved undercarriage with larger tyres was required now. The CL-604 also received new and more powerful General Electric CF-34-3B engines. The fuel tank capacity was increased by 1,242 liters of kerosene which also increased the maximum range to almost 7,500 km. Long distance routes such as New York-Moscow or Chicago-London were possible now. Apart from changes to the fuselage the CL-604 was given a full digital cockpit with six full colour displays up to modern standards. As well as private customers and companies, the Challenger was also purchased by various Air Forces. The “Flugbereitschaft” (Readiness Flight) of the Federal German Ministry of Defence operates six Challenger CL-601, which in the VIP version can carry up to 16 passengers over 5,500 km. When required not only high ranking politicians such as the Chancellor of the Federal Republic and the President of the Federation of German States, but also other politicians can be carried in a high level of comfort. Compared with other aircraft and helicopters of the “Flugbereitschaft” the Challenger is the mainstay of the passenger fleet. Apart from Germany, the Challenger has also proved itself as a reliable passenger aircraft with other Air Forces. The Royal Danish Air Force operates three Canadair Challenger CL-604. Its tasks encompass maritime reconnaissance, fisheries protection and, of course, VIP transports. The Royal Australian Air Force operates Challenger CL-604’s as VIP transports as well.

> Plastic Kits > Aircraft & Helicopters > Revell & Monogram > 1/144 Aircraft Kits