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The Fairey Swordfish, built by Britain's Fairey Aviation Company, was a large bi-plane with a metal frame covered in fabric, constructed with specially folding wings so it would take up less space aboard aircraft carriers. Used by the Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm as a torpedo bomber, it saw useful service in WWII. The aircraft was nicknamed 'Stringbag' - crews likened it to the string shopping bags used during that time, which expanded to carry objects of all shapes and sizes. The Swordfish joined 821 Naval Air Squadron in 1938 deployed aboard HMS Ark Royal, serving in the South Atlantic, Indian Ocean and then the Mediterranean. In April 1940, they were transferred to support Allied operations in Norway. The Swordfish MK I served with 821 Squadron twice - firstly between January 1939-April 1940 and then with 821X Squadron between December 1940 - January 1941 (30 aircraft). The Oxford Diecast Fairey Swordfish MK I recalls the aircraft's service aboard HMS Ark Royal in 1940. Decorated in the dark grey/pea green/off white camouflage scheme, the extra decorative detail is extensive and a great credit to this tough little aircraft.