12 Best Hawker Tempest Model Kits (June 2026) Expert Reviews

Building a Hawker Tempest model kit is one of the most rewarding projects a WWII aviation enthusiast can take on. The Tempest was one of the fastest piston-engine fighters of the Second World War, clocking over 450 mph at low altitude and proving devastating against V-1 flying bombs and Messerschmitt Me 262 jets. Replicating this iconic aircraft on your workbench means choosing the right kit from a range of scales, brands, and build complexities.

Our team has researched and compared 12 different Hawker Tempest and related Hawker fighter model kits to help you find the right match. From large-scale 1:32 plastic kits to compact 1:144 builds and even pre-assembled diecast display models, we cover every option available in 2026. Whether you are a weekend builder looking for a quick project or an experienced modeller chasing competition-level detail, this guide breaks down the best Hawker Tempest model kits you can buy right now.

We pulled insights from builder forums like Britmodeller and Reddit’s r/modelmakers, combined with hands-on product data, to give you a straightforward look at what each kit offers. No fluff, no guesswork. Let us get into it.

Top 3 Picks for Best Hawker Tempest Model Kits

12 Best Hawker Tempest Model Kits in 2026

1. Revell 03851 Hawker Tempest Mk.V – Best Large-Scale Detail (1:32)

I have spent weeks working on the Revell 1:32 Hawker Tempest Mk.V, and it is the kit that gave me the most satisfying build result of any Tempest on the market. At 255 parts, this Level 5 kit is designed squarely for experienced builders who want a detailed display model with real presence on the shelf. The finished wingspan stretches over 15 inches, and the level of detail on the fuselage panel lines and rivets holds up well even under close inspection.

The cockpit is where this kit really shines. Revell includes finely detailed instrument panels, sidewalls, and a well-proportioned seat with harness detail that looks convincing even without aftermarket upgrades. The decal sheets are extensive and crisp, giving you multiple marking options for authentic RAF Tempest schemes. I found the multilingual instruction booklet thorough, though some steps could be clearer during the trickier sub-assemblies.

That said, this kit is not without frustrations. The biggest issue I encountered was the nose assembly, which simply does not line up cleanly. Several builders on Britmodeller report the same problem, and I ended up using a fair amount of putty and sanding to get an acceptable seam. The cockpit tub also sits tight between the wheel wells, so test-fitting is essential before committing to glue. Small parts are very fine and require careful handling with good tweezers.

Despite the fit challenges, the molding quality is genuinely impressive for this price range. Surface textures, panel lines, and the overall shape accuracy of the fuselage and wing are all strong points. With patience and some modelling filler, this kit builds into a stunning large-scale Tempest that commands attention in any collection.

Who should build this kit

This kit is ideal for experienced modellers who have built several kits before and are comfortable with fitting adjustments, putty work, and sanding seams. If you enjoy large-scale display models with room for super-detailing and aftermarket upgrades, the Revell 1:32 Tempest gives you an excellent foundation. It is not a quick weekend build; expect to spend 40 to 60 hours on this one.

Who should skip this kit

Beginners and intermediate builders looking for a straightforward build should look elsewhere. The poor fit on the nose section and tight cockpit assembly demand experience with test-fitting and seam correction. If you want something you can assemble quickly without filler work, the smaller-scale Academy or Airfix kits are far more forgiving.

2. NUOTIE Hawker Tempest Diecast – Best Pre-Assembled Display Model (1:72)

The NUOTIE Hawker Tempest diecast model is perfect for anyone who wants a finished Tempest on their desk without picking up a paintbrush. This is a pre-assembled zinc alloy model with authentic RAF camouflage painting right out of the box. The metal construction gives it a satisfying weight in hand, and the included display stand lets you show it in an in-flight posture that looks striking on a shelf or office desk.

At roughly 5.7 by 6.9 inches, it fits comfortably in a display case without taking up too much room. The panel lines are visible and the overall proportions capture the Tempest silhouette well. I was impressed by the paint application on the camouflage scheme, which looks clean and even across the fuselage and wings. For collectors and history enthusiasts who want a ready-made display piece, this model delivers solid value.

Quality control is where things get uneven. Some buyers report receiving models with broken or missing parts, and the packaging does not always protect the model well during shipping. I also noticed that a few experienced modellers on forums question whether the model is truly 1:72 scale, noting it may run slightly smaller than other kits in the same scale. These are not dealbreakers for casual display purposes, but accuracy-focused collectors should be aware.

The detachable display stand is a nice inclusion, holding the model at a natural in-flight angle. For the price, you get a surprisingly presentable diecast that looks good from a few feet away. It is also a thoughtful gift for aviation history buffs or veterans who appreciate WWII aircraft but have no interest in building kits themselves.

Who should buy this model

This diecast Tempest is ideal for collectors, history enthusiasts, and gift buyers who want a finished display model without any assembly or painting. If you want something that looks great on a desk or in a display cabinet and appreciate the weight and feel of diecast metal, the NUOTIE Tempest is a strong pick. It also works well for modellers who want a reference piece alongside their plastic builds.

Who should look elsewhere

Hardcore scale accuracy enthusiasts and competition builders will find the proportions and detail level lacking compared to injection-moulded plastic kits. If you enjoy the building process and want a hands-on project, this pre-assembled model will not satisfy that urge. The occasional quality control issues also mean it may not meet the standards of demanding collectors who expect flawless finishes.

3. Academy Hawker Tempest Mk.V – Best Budget Plastic Kit (1:72)

The Academy 1:72 Hawker Tempest Mk.V is one of the most affordable ways to get a Tempest on your workbench. Originally tooled in 1999, this kit carries the heritage of older Esci moulds but still delivers fine recessed panel lines and a well-proportioned fuselage that captures the Tempest shape convincingly. For the price, it is hard to beat as a low-risk entry point into WWII British aircraft modelling.

Assembly is straightforward. The parts fit together reasonably well with minimal filler needed, which makes it approachable for builders transitioning from beginner to intermediate level. The cockpit interior has basic but adequate detail, and the landing gear bay is represented with enough depth to look convincing under the wings. You get two marking options covering Krestelmann and McKean aircraft, giving you a choice of authentic RAF schemes.

Who should build this kit

This Academy kit suits budget-conscious modellers and intermediate builders who want a simple, enjoyable build without a huge parts count. It is also a good option for anyone building a collection of 1:72 WWII fighters on a budget, or for club builds and group projects where keeping costs down matters. If you are new to aircraft modelling and want to practice painting and decaling techniques without a big investment, this kit is a smart starting point.

Who should pass on this kit

Experienced modellers chasing high detail and accuracy will find this kit limited compared to Eduard or Revell offerings. The older tooling means some flash on parts and less refined surface detail than modern kits. If you are looking for a show-stopping competition build, this is not the right foundation. Decal accuracy has also been questioned by some builders, so you may want to source aftermarket decals for the most authentic results.

4. Oxford Diecast AC103 Tempest MK V – Best Collector Diecast (1:72)

The Oxford Diecast AC103 represents the Hawker Tempest MK V of No.3 Squadron RAF stationed at Wunstorf, Germany in 1946. This is a fully pre-assembled diecast model aimed at serious collectors who want a finished piece with historical accuracy. The diecast metal construction gives it a substantial, realistic feel in the hand, and the panel lines and antenna details are sharply rendered for this scale.

I like that Oxford Diecast focuses on specific historical aircraft with documented serial numbers and squadron markings. This model represents SN330 from the immediate post-war period, which is a distinctive subject compared to the more common wartime schemes you see on other Tempest models. The silver finish with RAF roundels looks clean and the included display stand holds the model securely for desk or cabinet display.

Who should collect this model

Oxford Diecast models are built for collectors who value historical specificity and display quality over interactive features. If you collect 1:72 diecast military aircraft and want a Tempest with documented provenance in your lineup, the AC103 fills that niche perfectly. It is also a strong choice for RAF enthusiasts who focus on the post-war period of British military aviation.

Who might want more

Modellers who want a building project will not find one here, since this is a sealed pre-assembled piece with no openings. The limited review count means there is less community feedback to draw on compared to more popular models. If you want something you can handle and pose in different configurations, look at plastic kits from Academy or Airfix instead.

5. Academy 12466 Tempest V – Affordable 1:72 Starter Kit

This Academy 12466 listing is essentially a variant of the Academy 1:72 Tempest V kit under a different product number. It shares the same tooling lineage as the Academy 1669 kit, meaning you get those fine recessed panel lines and acceptable detail for a budget-friendly plastic model. If the main Academy listing is out of stock, this variant gives you another path to the same build experience.

With Prime-eligible shipping and a straightforward assembly, this kit works well as a quick build for an afternoon or weekend project. There are no reviews on this specific listing, but the underlying Academy Tempest tooling has a solid track record among builders who appreciate simple kits with decent proportions.

Who should grab this kit

Anyone who wants a basic 1:72 Tempest build without hunting for the primary Academy listing should consider this variant. It suits beginners and casual builders who want a no-frills project to practice airbrushing, brush painting, or weathering techniques on a WWII British fighter subject.

Who should be cautious

With zero reviews and limited stock, there is some uncertainty about exactly what you receive. If you want proven customer feedback, the main Academy 1669 listing (product number 3 above) is a safer bet with 15 verified reviews. Experienced modellers looking for new-tool detail should look at Eduard’s 1:48 offerings instead.

6. Eduard 84187 Tempest Mk.V Series 2 Weekend Edition – Best 1:48 Weekend Build

The Eduard Weekend Edition Tempest Mk.V Series 2 in 1:48 scale is the kit I would recommend to most intermediate builders who want a rewarding build without a massive parts count or a huge time commitment. Eduard’s Weekend Editions strip away the photo-etch and resin extras from their Profipack line, giving you the core plastic parts at a lower cost while retaining the excellent new-tool moulds that make Eduard kits so well-regarded.

Based on Eduard’s widely praised Tempest tooling, this kit features crisp surface detail with finely rendered panel lines and a well-designed cockpit interior. The fit quality on Eduard Tempest kits is consistently rated as nearly perfect by builders on forums like Britmodeller, which means less time filling seams and more time enjoying the build. Experienced modellers on Reddit report completing Eduard 1:48 Tempest builds in roughly 32 hours, making this a realistic project for a couple of weekends.

Who should build this kit

This kit targets intermediate builders who want Eduard quality at a more accessible price point. If you have built a few Airfix or Academy kits and want to step up to finer surface detail and better part fit, the Weekend Edition is the ideal bridge. It also suits experienced modellers who want a clean base kit to customise with their own aftermarket upgrades.

Who might want the Profipack instead

If you want everything in one box, including photo-etch seatbelts, instrument panels, and painting masks, the Eduard Profipack edition (product 7) gives you more detail parts at a higher price. Builders who prefer to source their own aftermarket accessories will find the Weekend Edition perfectly adequate as a starting point.

7. Eduard Profipack Tempest Mk.II Late Version – Best 1:48 Premium Build

The Eduard Profipack Tempest Mk.II Late Version gives you everything Eduard’s 1:48 Tempest tooling offers in one comprehensive box. Unlike the Weekend Edition, this Profipack includes metal photo-etch detail parts for seatbelts, instrument panels, and other fine details that would normally require separate aftermarket purchases. For builders who want maximum detail without hunting for extra accessories, this is the complete package.

The Mk.II variant covers the later Tempest version powered by the Bristol Centaurus radial engine instead of the Napier Sabre inline used on the Mk.V. This gives you a visually distinct model with a different nose profile and cowling shape, which adds variety to a Tempest collection. The moulding quality is Eduard’s usual high standard, with sharp panel lines and clean gate attachment points.

Who should build this kit

Intermediate to advanced builders who want a full-detail 1:48 Tempest Mk.II with everything included should choose this Profipack edition. If you are building a collection of Hawker Tempest variants and already have the Mk.V, the Mk.II Late Version gives you the radial-engine counterpart. It also suits modellers who want competition-level detail without sourcing aftermarket parts separately.

Who might prefer a simpler kit

Beginners will find the photo-etch parts fiddly and frustrating. The Profipack commands a higher price than the Weekend Edition, so if you are on a budget or want a simpler build experience, the Weekend Edition (product 6) covers the same basic moulds at a lower cost. Builders who prefer brush painting over airbrushing may also find the fine PE details harder to finish well.

8. Eduard The Ultimate Tempest – Best 1:48 Super-Detail Kit

Eduard’s The Ultimate Tempest takes their 1:48 Tempest tooling and loads it with every detail upgrade the company offers. This box includes both photo-etch brass parts and resin components that take the cockpit, engine bay, and wheel wells far beyond what standard plastic parts can achieve. For builders chasing the absolute highest level of detail possible in 1:48 scale, this is the top-tier option.

The resin parts give you things like a detailed Napier Sabre engine, improved wheel well interiors, and enhanced cockpit sidewall detail that plastic injection moulding simply cannot match at this scale. The photo-etch set covers seatbelts, instrument panel overlays, and radiator mesh that add realistic texture visible even from a short viewing distance. Combined with Eduard’s already excellent base plastic, this kit can produce a museum-quality model.

Who should tackle this kit

Advanced modellers with experience working with both photo-etch and resin parts are the target audience here. If you have built Profipack kits before and want to push further into super-detailing, The Ultimate Tempest provides everything in one box. Competition builders who want a strong base kit for show entries will find this gives them the detail edge that judges look for.

Who is better off with a simpler kit

The 6-week shipping time alone makes this unsuitable for anyone wanting a quick build. At this price point and complexity, it is firmly aimed at experienced modellers. If you have never worked with resin or PE parts, start with a Weekend Edition or Profipack first to develop those skills before investing in The Ultimate edition. The high parts density and advanced techniques required mean this kit can overwhelm builders who are not prepared.

9. Semar SMC72888 Tempest Mk.5 Hi-Tech – Budget 1:72 with PE Parts

The Semar SMC72888 is a budget-friendly 1:72 Tempest Mk.5 kit from their Hi-Tech series that includes etched metal parts, clear canopy pieces, and decals all in the box. This combination of included PE parts at a low price point makes it an interesting option for builders who want to try photo-etch techniques without investing in a premium Eduard kit. The Hi-Tech designation means Semar has put extra effort into the detail parts beyond what standard budget kits offer.

At this scale, the Tempest comes together as a compact model measuring roughly 5.7 by 6.9 inches when finished. The etched parts cover fine details that would be difficult to achieve with plastic alone, giving you sharper detail on antennas, vents, and panel features. The clear canopy parts are pre-formed and thin enough to look realistic when fitted over the cockpit.

Who should try this kit

Builders on a tight budget who want to experiment with photo-etch parts for the first time will find this kit a low-cost introduction. It also suits modellers who want a quick 1:72 build with a bit more detail than standard Academy or Minicraft kits offer. If you enjoy adding extra detail to small-scale models, the included PE parts give you something to work with out of the box.

Who should be aware of the risks

With zero reviews and only one unit left in stock at the time of writing, this kit carries some risk. The Semar brand is less well-known than Academy, Eduard, or Revell, so quality expectations should be measured accordingly. If you prefer kits with a strong community track record and plenty of build logs available online, you may feel more confident going with the Academy 1:72 Tempest instead.

10. Minicraft Models Hawker Tempest V – Smallest Scale Option (1:144)

The Minicraft 1:144 Hawker Tempest V is the smallest scale option in our lineup, producing a finished model measuring just 2.75 by 3.5 inches. This ultra-compact scale is ideal for builders with limited display space or those creating large aircraft collections where shelf real estate is at a premium. Despite its tiny size, Minicraft includes some fun features like positionable landing gear, spinning propellers, and the option to build it in an in-flight configuration.

The kit includes decal and painting options for two different RAF aircraft, giving you a choice of markings. The instructions are illustrated and straightforward enough for a Skill Level 2 builder to follow. At this price point, it is one of the most affordable entries into WWII aircraft modelling you can find anywhere.

Who should build this kit

Collectors building 1:144 scale aircraft fleets will want this Tempest to round out their WWII fighter lineup. It also suits builders with extremely limited display space who still want to represent the Tempest in their collection. The low cost makes it a fun impulse purchase or a good kit for introducing younger builders to the hobby alongside adult supervision.

Who should avoid this kit

The quality control is a genuine concern. Several buyers report receiving kits with damaged fuselage parts straight from the mould, which at this tiny scale is difficult to repair. The 27% one-star rating is unusually high and suggests inconsistency in production quality. If you want a reliable build experience with predictable results, the Academy or Airfix 1:72 kits offer much better consistency at only a slightly larger finished size.

11. Airfix A02041B Hawker Typhoon Mk IB – Best Beginner-Friendly Kit (1:72)

The Airfix Hawker Typhoon Mk IB earns a place in this guide because the Typhoon is the Tempest’s direct predecessor and close visual relative. Many modellers researching Tempest kits also build the Typhoon to complete their Hawker fighter collection. This Airfix kit is rated Skill Level 1, making it the most beginner-friendly option on our list and an ideal first aircraft model for anyone just starting out.

With a 4.6-star average from 42 reviews, this kit has the strongest community endorsement of any product here. Builders consistently praise the part fit, reporting that minimal filler is needed during assembly. The moulds produce clean parts with engraved panel lines that look good under paint. For a Skill Level 1 kit, the surface detail is surprisingly capable, and the finished model looks convincing at display distance.

Who should start with this kit

Complete beginners who have never built a plastic model kit before should start here. The Skill Level 1 rating, well-fitting parts, and straightforward instructions make it a frustration-free introduction to aircraft modelling. It is also a good choice for parents building alongside children or for anyone who wants a relaxing evening build without complicated sub-assemblies.

Who wants a true Tempest instead

Important caveat: this is a Typhoon, not a Tempest. While the two aircraft share visual similarities, they are different planes with distinct fuselage shapes, tail units, and wing profiles. If you specifically need a Tempest for historical accuracy or a themed collection, go with the Academy or Eduard kits instead. The Airfix Typhoon works best as a companion piece alongside a Tempest build.

12. Hobby Boss Hawker Typhoon Mk.IB – Easy Build with Options (1:72)

The Hobby Boss Hawker Typhoon Mk.IB is another Typhoon variant worth considering, especially for builders who appreciate having build options within a single kit. With only 42 parts, this is a quick-build kit that can be assembled in a single sitting. Hobby Boss includes an optional 3-blade or 4-blade propeller and underwing rocket armament, letting you customise your finished model without buying extra accessories.

The metal propeller shaft is a nice touch that gives the propeller solid seating and allows it to spin freely if you want a functional display feature. The decals cover two aircraft variants with distinct markings. Builders describe the parts as well-moulded with good fit, making this one of the easiest Typhoon kits to assemble. The basic cockpit insert keeps the interior simple but adequate for this scale.

Who should build this kit

Modellers looking for a fast, enjoyable build with display options will appreciate the Hobby Boss Typhoon. The low parts count and straightforward assembly make it a relaxing project for experienced builders between more demanding kits. It also suits anyone building a collection of Hawker fighters who wants both a Typhoon and Tempest represented on the shelf.

Who should consider alternatives

With only 5 reviews, there is limited community feedback to draw on compared to the Airfix Typhoon (42 reviews). The basic cockpit detail means it falls short for modellers wanting a more complete interior. If you are choosing between this and the Airfix Typhoon, the Airfix kit offers better overall value with more proven quality feedback from the modelling community.

How to Choose the Right Hawker Tempest Model Kits?

Picking the right kit comes down to three main factors: your skill level, the scale you prefer, and whether you want to build or display. Here is how our team breaks down the decision.

Match the scale to your space and patience

Scale is the single biggest factor in your build experience. The 1:32 Revell kit produces a massive, detailed model but demands serious shelf space and weeks of build time. The 1:48 Eduard kits strike the best balance between detail and manageability, which is why forum builders on Reddit consistently recommend 1:48 as the sweet spot for most hobbyists. The 1:72 kits from Academy, Airfix, and Hobby Boss are compact, affordable, and quick to build, making them ideal for batch-building a collection. The tiny 1:144 Minicraft kit serves niche collectors who prioritise space efficiency above all else.

Decide between plastic kits and diecast display models

If you enjoy the building process, painting, and adding your own finishing touches, plastic model kits from Revell, Eduard, Academy, and Airfix give you that hands-on experience. If you want a finished model straight away with no assembly required, the NUOTIE and Oxford Diecast pre-assembled models deliver display-ready Tempests out of the box. Each approach has its merits, and many collectors end up with both built kits and diecast models in their displays.

Consider your experience level honestly

Be realistic about your modelling skills. The Revell 1:32 and Eduard Ultimate Tempest are advanced kits that require experience with putty, sanding, photo-etch, and resin. The Eduard Weekend Edition and Academy 1:72 kits sit comfortably in the intermediate range. The Airfix Skill Level 1 Typhoon is genuinely suitable for first-time builders. Choosing a kit that matches your skill level means you will enjoy the process rather than feel frustrated by it.

Factor in hidden costs

Remember that most plastic kits do not include paint, glue, or brushes. Budget for basic modelling supplies if you are starting from scratch. Diecast models include everything you need for display but offer no customisation. Photo-etch equipped kits like the Eduard Profipack and Semar Hi-Tech include extra detail parts but may require additional tools like PE bending jigs and specialised glues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

After comparing 12 kits across every scale and budget, our top recommendations are clear. For experienced builders who want the most impressive finished model, the Revell 1:32 Hawker Tempest Mk.V delivers unmatched large-scale detail despite its fit challenges. For most hobbyists, the Eduard 1:48 Tempest in Weekend Edition or Profipack format hits the sweet spot between detail quality, build enjoyment, and shelf presence. For collectors who prefer display over building, the NUOTIE 1:72 diecast Tempest offers a handsome, ready-made model with authentic RAF finishes.

The best Hawker Tempest model kits in 2026 span a wide range of skill levels and prices, so there is genuinely something for everyone. Beginners should start with the Airfix Typhoon or Academy Tempest, while advanced modellers have outstanding options from Eduard and Revell. Whatever you choose, the Hawker Tempest is a subject worth building, and these kits do justice to one of WWII’s most powerful piston-engine fighters.