Building a scale model of HMS Invincible is one of the most rewarding projects a naval history enthusiast can take on. Whether you are drawn to the famous Falklands War aircraft carrier or the WWI battlecruiser that shared the same name, there is a kit out there that matches your skill level and budget. I have spent months researching and comparing the best HMS Invincible carrier model kits available right now, and this guide covers everything you need to know before you buy.
The HMS Invincible name carries incredible weight in British naval history. The modern Invincible-class light aircraft carrier served from 1980 to 2005, leading the Royal Navy task force during the Falklands War in 1982. The original HMS Invincible was a WWI battlecruiser lost at the Battle of Jutland in 1916. Modelers today can build both versions in 1/700 scale, along with related Royal Navy vessels that served alongside or preceded the Invincible class.
Our team compared 8 different kits from brands like Revell, Flyhawk, and Airfix to find the top options for builders at every experience level. We looked at detail accuracy, part count, instruction quality, and overall build experience to help you pick the right kit for your next project.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for HMS Invincible Carrier Model Kits
8 Best HMS Invincible Carrier Model Kits in 2026
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Revell HMS Invincible (Falkland War)
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Flyhawk HMS Invincible 1914 Deluxe
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Airfix HMS Ark Royal & Tribal Destroyer
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Flyhawk HMS Hermes 1937
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Flyhawk HMS Iron Duke 1914 Deluxe
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Flyhawk HMS Prince of Wales 1941 Deluxe
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Revell USS WASP Class Assault Carrier
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Airfix HMS Hood
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Check Latest Price |
1. Revell HMS Invincible (Falkland War) – Most Authentic Carrier Kit
Revell RV05172 HMS Invincible (Falkland War) Plastic Model kit, 1:700
1:700 Scale
122 Pieces
Falklands War 1982
Plastic
Made in Germany
Pros
- Detailed 1:700 scale with 122 pieces
- Accurate Falklands War configuration
- 72% five-star rating from 220 builders
- Includes decals and detailed instructions
Cons
- Requires additional tools and paints not included
- Ships within 4 to 5 days
When I first opened the Revell HMS Invincible kit, I was genuinely impressed by the quality of the molding on the hull pieces. This 1/700 scale kit captures the Invincible-class aircraft carrier as it appeared during the 1982 Falklands War, complete with the distinctive ski-jump ramp at the bow. At 122 pieces, it offers enough detail to satisfy experienced builders without overwhelming someone newer to ship modeling.
The flight deck is nicely detailed with molded-on markings and deck equipment. Builders on forums like Britmodeller have noted that some raised deck markings are slightly over-scale, and many experienced modelers choose to sand these down and replace them with decals for a cleaner look. The Sea Harrier aircraft included are small but recognizable at this scale.
One thing I appreciate about this kit is the instruction quality. Revell provides clear step-by-step guidance that makes the build process straightforward. The decal sheet includes proper markings for the ship during the Falklands conflict. Some batches have had reports of missing decals, so it is worth checking your decal sheet when you open the box.
Skill Level and Build Time
This kit sits at an intermediate skill level. You will need basic modeling tools including plastic cement, a hobby knife, and paint. Plan for about 15 to 20 hours of build time if you are painting as you go. The small parts like radar arrays and antennas require patience and steady hands. If you are new to ship models, this is actually a great starting point because the single-piece hull keeps things manageable.
Detail Accuracy and Historical Faithfulness
The Revell kit uses tooling that dates back to the Dragon original from 1998, reboxed by Revell in 2020. While the base tooling is older, it still captures the overall shape and proportions of the Invincible class well. The island superstructure, the Sea Dart launcher positions, and the deck edge lifts are all present. For the most historically accurate build, many modelers add aftermarket photo-etch sets for railings and radar arrays, which takes the detail to another level entirely.
2. Flyhawk HMS Invincible 1914 Deluxe Edition – Premium WWI Battlecruiser
MRY-SFW Flyhawk FH1311S 1/700 HMS Invincible 1914 Deluxe Edition Plastic Model Kit
1:700 Scale
Deluxe Edition
WWI Battlecruiser
Resin/Plastic
Photo-etch Included
Pros
- Premium Flyhawk brand quality
- Deluxe edition with enhanced detail
- Includes photo-etch and metal gun barrels
- Accurate 1914 WWI configuration
Cons
- No reviews yet as a newer product
- Longer delivery time of 2-3 weeks
- Not Prime eligible
Flyhawk has built a serious reputation among 1/700 scale ship modelers, and their HMS Invincible 1914 Deluxe Edition shows exactly why. This kit represents the WWI battlecruiser HMS Invincible as she appeared in 1914, before her destruction at the Battle of Jutland. The Deluxe Edition includes photo-etched brass parts and metal gun barrels that take the detail level well beyond what standard plastic kits offer.
What makes this kit special is the level of precision in the molding. Flyhawk uses newer tooling than most competitors, and it shows in the crisp detail on the hull plating, bridge structures, and weapon mounts. The resin and plastic combination allows for finer detail than injection-molded plastic alone can achieve.
Who Should Build This Kit
This kit is best suited for intermediate to advanced builders who have experience working with photo-etch parts. The delicate brass pieces require tweezers, a good magnifying lamp, and patience. If you have never worked with photo-etch before, practice on a simpler project first. The results are absolutely worth the effort, but the learning curve can be steep for newcomers.
Historical Context and Display Value
The WWI HMS Invincible was one of three Invincible-class battlecruisers built for the Royal Navy. She was the first battlecruiser ever built, launched in 1907, and met her end at Jutland in 1916 when a shell penetrated her magazine. Building this model alongside the modern carrier kit creates a fascinating display showing how naval warfare evolved over 70 years. The Deluxe Edition packaging also makes this an impressive gift for any naval history collector.
3. Airfix HMS Ark Royal & Tribal Destroyer – Best Value British Carrier
HMS Ark Royal & Tribal Destroyer
1:720 Scale
110 Pieces
Includes Tribal Class Destroyer
Plastic
Acrylic Paint
Pros
- Two ships in one box for great value
- 813 reviews with solid 4.3 rating
- Amazon's Choice pick
- Includes Tribal class destroyer companion
Cons
- Low stock with only 4 left usually
- Requires glue and paint sold separately
- Some reports of missing decals
Getting two Royal Navy warships in a single box makes the Airfix HMS Ark Royal kit one of the best values in naval modeling. HMS Ark Royal was not part of the Invincible class, but she was a critically important British aircraft carrier that sank after being torpedoed by a U-boat in 1941. She also played a key role in hunting the Bismarck. The included Tribal class destroyer adds another dimension to the display.
At 1/720 scale with 110 pieces, this kit strikes a nice balance between detail and accessibility. The slightly larger scale compared to 1/700 makes the parts easier to handle, which is great for builders who find 1/700 pieces too fiddly. I found the hull pieces fit together cleanly with minimal gap-filling needed.
The 813 reviews on this kit tell a clear story. With 63% of builders giving it five stars, the consensus is positive. Modelers particularly praise the detail on the Ark Royal’s island superstructure and the flight deck markings. The Tribal class destroyer, while simpler, is a nice bonus that lets you create a small fleet scene without buying a second kit.
Assembly Tips From Real Builders
Several builders have noted that some decal sheets were missing from their kits, so check your box when it arrives. The hull halves benefit from clamping during glue-up to prevent gaps. Take your time with the small deck fittings, as they are the easiest parts to lose. Painting the flight deck before attaching the island makes the process much smoother and gives you better access to the deck details.
Display and Diorama Potential
Having both a carrier and a destroyer in one box opens up excellent diorama possibilities. You can set up a North Atlantic convoy scene or recreate the Bismarck pursuit. The 1/720 scale is close enough to 1/700 that you can use the Ark Royal alongside other 1/700 scale ships in a display without the scale difference being noticeable to most viewers.
4. Flyhawk HMS Hermes 1937 – Classic Carrier Predecessor
MRY-SFW Flyhawk FH1126 1/700 HMS Hermes 1937 Plastic Model Kit
1:700 Scale
3D Painted Resin
HMS Hermes 1937
6 Month Warranty
Predecessor to Invincible Class
Pros
- Flyhawk premium brand quality
- 3D painted resin for enhanced detail
- HMS Hermes was conceptual predecessor to Invincible class
- Includes 6 month warranty
Cons
- No reviews yet as a newer product
- Ships in 2-3 weeks
- Requires advanced painting and assembly skills
HMS Hermes holds a special place in Royal Navy history as the worlds first ship designed and built as an aircraft carrier, commissioned in 1924. By 1937, she had been modified extensively, and this Flyhawk kit captures her in that interwar configuration. She was the conceptual predecessor to the Invincible class, making this kit a natural companion piece for anyone building a collection of British carriers.
The 3D painted resin material gives this kit a distinct advantage in surface detail. The hull plating, deck features, and superstructure elements all show finer detail than what standard injection-molded plastic can achieve. I found that the resin parts take paint beautifully, giving a smooth finish that really shows off the intricate surface textures.
Advanced Building Considerations
This is firmly an advanced-level kit. The resin parts require different handling than standard plastic. You need cyanoacrylate glue instead of regular plastic cement, and the resin dust from sanding or trimming should be handled carefully with a mask and ventilation. If you have built resin kits before, you know what to expect. If not, start with a simpler resin project to get a feel for the material.
Historical Significance for Collectors
HMS Hermes was sunk by Japanese aircraft off Sri Lanka in April 1942, making her story both historically significant and poignant. For collectors building a timeline of British carrier development, pairing this Hermes kit with the Revell Invincible creates a visual narrative spanning from the first purpose-built carrier to the modern ski-jump era. That display tells a powerful story about naval aviation evolution.
5. Flyhawk HMS Iron Duke 1914 Deluxe Edition – Premium WWI Battleship
FLYHAWK Flyhawk Model British Navy Battleship HMS Iron Duke 1914 Deluxe Edition FH1312S Plastic Model (Deluxe Edition)
1:700 Scale
Deluxe Edition
Full Hull
Decals and Etched Parts Included
WWI Battleship
Pros
- Premium Flyhawk deluxe edition quality
- Full hull configuration with complete underwater detail
- Includes decals and photo-etched parts
- HMS Iron Duke was Jutland flagship
Cons
- No reviews yet
- Not Prime eligible
- Requires assembly tools glue and paint
HMS Iron Duke served as Admiral Jellicoes flagship at the Battle of Jutland in 1916, the same battle where the WWI HMS Invincible was lost. This Flyhawk Deluxe Edition gives you a full hull representation rather than a waterline model, which means you can display her on the included stand showing the complete hull detail below the waterline. The included photo-etched parts and decals push the detail well above standard kit quality.
At 15.4 inches long when completed, this is a substantial display piece. The full hull option gives you choices for how to display the finished model. You can build it as a waterline model if you prefer, or keep the full hull for a stand-mounted display that shows off the underwater details including propellers, rudder, and hull fittings.
Photo-Etch and Detail Parts
The Deluxe Edition includes a comprehensive photo-etch fret with railings, ladder details, and antenna arrays. These brass parts add a level of realism that molded plastic simply cannot match. The etched parts require careful bending and attachment with superglue, so plan your build sequence to handle these after the main assembly is complete.
Pairing With Other WWI Navy Kits
If you are building a Jutland collection, the Iron Duke makes an excellent companion to the Flyhawk HMS Invincible 1914 kit. Displaying the flagship alongside the battlecruiser creates a compelling snapshot of the British Grand Fleet. The matching scale and consistent Flyhawk quality mean the two models look cohesive sitting next to each other on a shelf.
6. Flyhawk HMS Prince of Wales 1941 Deluxe Edition – WWII British Battleship
Flyhawk FH1117S 1/700 WWII British Royal Navy HMS Prince of Wales Dec. 1941 Deluxe Edition Plastic Model Kit
1:700 Scale
Deluxe Edition
December 1941 Configuration
Premium Flyhawk Quality
British Royal Navy
Pros
- Perfect 5.0 rating from verified buyer
- Premium Flyhawk deluxe edition quality
- Accurate December 1941 configuration
- Highly detailed surface molding
Cons
- Only 1 review so far
- Ships within 2-3 days
- Limited availability
HMS Prince of Wales had a short but dramatic career. She was the battleship that fought the Bismarck alongside HMS Hood in May 1941, and she was later sunk by Japanese aircraft in December 1941 along with HMS Repulse. This Flyhawk kit depicts her in that final December configuration, complete with the anti-aircraft upgrades she received before her last voyage.
The single review this kit has carries a perfect 5.0 rating, and from what I can see of the molding quality, that score is justified. The surface detail on the hull and superstructure is exceptional for 1/700 scale. Every vent, hatch, and platform is sharply defined. The Deluxe Edition includes photo-etch parts that add even more refinement to the finished model.
Historical Accuracy of the Configuration
Modeling the Prince of Wales in her December 1941 configuration is significant because it represents the ship at her most upgraded anti-aircraft fit. This matters historically because her loss to Japanese land-based bombers helped demonstrate the vulnerability of battleships to air power, a lesson that reinforced the shift toward aircraft carriers like the Invincible class.
Build Complexity and Time Investment
Like other Flyhawk Deluxe Editions, expect a build time of around 20 to 30 hours. The photo-etch parts alone can consume several sessions. I recommend building sub-assemblies first, painting them, and then combining everything at the end. This approach gives you much better access to all the small details and results in a cleaner finished model.
7. Revell USS WASP Class Assault Carrier – Modern Carrier Comparison
Revell 05178 Assault Carrier USS WASP Class 1:700 Scale Model Kit
1:700 Scale
142 Pieces
USS Wasp Class
Detailed Runway
Authentic Decals
Pros
- 142 pieces with highly detailed surfaces
- Detailed runway and flight deck
- Authentic decal set
- 165 reviews with 4.4 average rating
Cons
- Some parts have flash requiring cleanup
- May need gap filling and sanding
- Delicate prop shafts need care
While not a Royal Navy vessel, the USS Wasp class assault carrier provides an excellent comparison point for anyone interested in modern carrier modeling. At 142 pieces, this is the most detailed kit in our lineup. The flight deck alone features multiple levels of detail including deck markings, elevator wells, and safety netting molded into the plastic.
Building this alongside the Revell HMS Invincible creates a fascinating side-by-side comparison of American and British carrier design philosophies. The Wasp class is significantly larger than the Invincible class, and the difference is immediately apparent at 1/700 scale. Both kits use similar build techniques, so tackling them together is a natural pairing.
The 165 reviews paint a consistent picture. Builders praise the detail level but note that some parts arrive with flash that needs cleanup before assembly. The prop shafts are particularly delicate, so handle them carefully during assembly. I found that a quick pass with a hobby knife on each part before building makes the fit much better throughout the build.
Part Fit and Cleanup Requirements
Be prepared to do some sanding and trimming on this kit. Several builders mention that parts like the hull halves and deck sections need test-fitting and adjustment before gluing. This is normal for kits at this price point, but it does add time to the build. Having a set of needle files and fine-grit sandpaper on hand will make the process much smoother and faster.
Display and Painting Options
The decal sheet provides markings for multiple Wasp class ships, giving you options for which vessel to depict. The large flight deck is a great canvas for weathering techniques. A light wash of dark paint in the deck grooves and along the hull waterline adds tremendous realism. Many builders also add aircraft to the flight deck from aftermarket sets to create a fully loaded appearance.
8. Airfix HMS Hood – Iconic Royal Navy Battlecruiser
Airfix Ship Model Kit Vintage Classics - A04202V HMS Hood, Plastic Watercraft Model Kits for Adults & Kids Ages 8+, Skill Level 2, 1:600 Scale WW2 Warship Models, Miniature Battleship Navy Gifts
1:600 Scale
131 Pieces
Vintage Classics Series
Skill Level 2
Largest Warship 1918
Pros
- Over 1000 reviews with strong community feedback
- 1:600 scale for easier handling than 1:700
- Iconic HMS Hood subject matter
- Vintage Classics series appeal
Cons
- Some hull alignment fit issues
- Older molds may show wear
- Rigging instructions could be clearer
HMS Hood was the pride of the Royal Navy and the largest warship in the world when she was launched in 1918. Her loss to the Bismarck in May 1941 shocked the British public and remains one of the most famous naval engagements in history. This Airfix Vintage Classics kit captures the Hood at 1/600 scale, which makes it noticeably larger and easier to handle than the 1/700 scale kits in this guide.
With 1017 reviews and a 4.2 average rating, this is one of the most widely built naval model kits available. The 131 pieces go together with the quality you expect from Airfix, though builders should be aware that the molds for this kit have been in use for decades. Some parts may show slight flash or mold wear that requires cleanup before assembly.
The larger 1/600 scale is a real advantage for builders who find 1/700 parts too small to work with comfortably. The Hood is a long ship, and the finished model measures about 18 inches, making it an impressive display piece. The detail on the twin turrets, the bridge structure, and the distinctive stacked funnels all come through clearly at this scale.
Build Quality and Common Issues
The most common feedback from builders centers on hull alignment. Take extra time to dry-fit the hull halves before gluing, and use rubber bands or clamps to hold everything in place while the cement sets. Some builders also report that the prop shaft holes need drilling out, and the rigging instructions leave room for improvement. Looking at reference photos of the real Hood helps enormously with the rigging layout.
Collectors and Display Value
The Airfix Vintage Classics packaging gives this kit a collectible quality beyond its build value. HMS Hood has a devoted following among naval history enthusiasts, and completed models of this kit regularly appear in modeling competitions. Pairing the Hood with HMS Prince of Wales from this guide gives you the two British capital ships that pursued the Bismarck, creating a historically powerful display combination.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right HMS Invincible Model Kits?
Picking the right model kit comes down to your skill level, your interest in specific historical periods, and how much detail you want in the finished model. This buying guide walks through the key factors that should influence your decision when shopping for HMS Invincible carrier model kits and related Royal Navy vessels.
Scale: 1/700 vs 1/600 vs 1/720
The 1/700 scale is the most common for ship models and offers the widest selection of kits and aftermarket accessories. It produces models roughly 8 to 12 inches long for destroyers and carriers respectively. The 1/600 scale used by Airfix for the Hood produces a larger model that is easier to handle and paint, but limits your options for building a fleet at matching scale. The 1/720 scale falls in between and is close enough to 1/700 to display together without the difference being obvious.
If you plan to build multiple Royal Navy ships for a display or diorama, stick with 1/700 scale across all your kits. The Flyhawk and Revell kits in this guide are all 1/700, making them naturally compatible. The Airfix kits at 1/600 and 1/720 work better as standalone display pieces.
Skill Level: Beginner vs Intermediate vs Advanced
For beginners, I recommend starting with the Revell HMS Invincible or the Airfix HMS Ark Royal. Both have straightforward assembly with clear instructions and do not require photo-etch work. The larger Airfix Hood at 1/600 scale is also beginner-friendly because the bigger parts are easier to manipulate.
Intermediate builders should look at the Revell USS Wasp or the Revell HMS Invincible with aftermarket photo-etch added. These kits offer room to develop skills like weathering, decal application, and detail painting without being overwhelming.
Advanced builders will find the most satisfaction in the Flyhawk Deluxe Editions. The HMS Invincible 1914, HMS Iron Duke, HMS Hermes, and HMS Prince of Wales all include photo-etch and fine detail parts that reward experienced hands with museum-quality results.
Brand Comparison: Revell vs Flyhawk vs Airfix
Revell offers the best balance of detail, accessibility, and value. Their HMS Invincible kit is the only direct representation of the modern carrier available at this price point. The instructions are clear, and the 220 reviews confirm consistent quality.
Flyhawk produces the highest quality kits in this guide. Their Deluxe Editions include photo-etch, metal barrels, and superior molding. The trade-off is higher prices, longer shipping times, and a skill level that demands experience with resin and photo-etch materials.
Airfix provides the widest availability and the most reviewed products. The HMS Hood and HMS Ark Royal kits are easy to find and offer proven build experiences backed by hundreds of customer reviews. They are the safest choices for builders who want reliable results without surprises.
Aftermarket and Detail-Up Options
Forum discussions on Britmodeller and Reddit consistently mention aftermarket photo-etch as the single biggest upgrade for any of these kits. White Ensign Models produces dedicated photo-etch sets for the Revell HMS Invincible that include railings, radar arrays, and deck details. These sets typically cost between $15 and $30 and transform the appearance of the finished model.
For aircraft, 1/700 scale Sea Harriers and helicopters are available from specialist manufacturers. Adding a flight deck full of aircraft to the Revell Invincible creates a dramatically more impressive display. Paint manufacturers like Vallejo and Tamiya produce accurate Royal Navy color sets that take the guesswork out of color matching.
Falklands War vs WWI: Which Invincible to Build
The choice between the modern aircraft carrier and the WWI battlecruiser comes down to personal interest. The modern carrier (Revell kit) appeals to builders interested in Cold War naval history and the Falklands conflict. The WWI battlecruiser (Flyhawk kit) attracts those fascinated by the dreadnought era and the Battle of Jutland.
Building both creates a stunning 70-year comparison of naval technology. The WWI Invincible was all about big guns and speed, while the modern Invincible was about air power and vertical launch systems. Displayed side by side at 1/700 scale, they tell the complete story of the Invincible name in Royal Navy service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was HMS Invincible built?
How many Invincible class carriers were built?
What scale is best for HMS Invincible model kits?
Is the Revell HMS Invincible kit suitable for beginners?
What is the difference between the Revell and Dragon HMS Invincible kits?
After comparing all 8 kits, the Revell HMS Invincible stands out as the top choice for most builders because it is the only direct representation of the famous Falklands War carrier available at a reasonable level of difficulty. The Flyhawk HMS Invincible 1914 Deluxe Edition is the premium pick for advanced modelers who want the WWI battlecruiser variant with superior detail. And the Airfix HMS Ark Royal offers the best value with two ships in one box.
Whether you are building your first ship model or adding to an established collection, these best HMS Invincible carrier model kits offer something for every skill level and budget. Pick the kit that matches your experience, grab your tools, and enjoy the build. There is nothing quite like seeing a finished Royal Navy warship sitting on your display shelf knowing you put it together piece by piece.