Messerschmitt Bf 110 Recognition Model

This is a German-made model of a Second World War Bf 110 used to train aircrew, particularly pilots and gunners, in the vital skill of aircraft recognition. It was made by Wiking, a model company still in existence.

Some aircraft were easily confused in the heat of conflict. On 15 August 1940, a Blenheim was attacked by Spitfire pilots when they mistook it for a German Junkers Ju 88. Personnel spent many hours studying photographs or drawings of aircraft, and illustrated playing cards added some fun to the process. Models were often hand-made by RAF personnel in their spare time and were particularly useful as they could be viewed from any angle.