A die-cast tribute to the RAF’s Tiger Meet Puma
Welcome to the latest edition of Corgi Die-cast Diaries, your regular blog review of all the news, updates and topical stories from the captivating world of Corgi die-cast model collecting.
We're pleased to be bringing you another weighty update of new Corgi model project developments in this latest edition of DCD, as the team are currently putting the finishing touches to our plans for attendance at this year’s Royal International Air Tattoo. We have much exciting news to share with you on that subject, but will bring you all those details in the next edition of our blog, scheduled for publication the week prior to RIAT 2025.
For this week though, our headline update features an extremely distinctive aircraft which was one of the star items at the RIAT show held 20 years ago, but as this year has seen the retirement of the RAF’s Puma force, could hardly be more appropriate an addition to the Aviation Archive range. Our Tiger Meet Puma is certainly something for rotary fans to get a little excited about, and we have an exclusive selection of production sample model images to bring you as part of this update.
For those amongst us who would describe themselves as proud piston heads, we come back down to terra firma with a trio of impending Vanguards model releases, which are about to vie for consideration for places within our collections, with two of them already in our warehouse, and the other scheduled to join them soon. Presented in colours as diverse as Brilliant Red, Signal Green and Caledonian, you’re definitely in for a visual Vanguards treat this time around.
We really do have a vibrant, multicoloured edition of our Corgi blog for your enjoyment this time around.
Interesting helicopter developments
We’re about to welcome this stunning new helicopter addition to the Aviation Archive range, RAF No.230 Squadron’s beautiful Tiger Meet Puma.
With the Aviation Archive range proudly immortalising some of the world’s greatest aircraft in scale die-cast form for almost 27 years now, some of the most popular releases over that time have charted the astonishing emergence of the helicopter as an invaluable air asset in both military and civilian applications during the post war era. Able to perform numerous tasks which other aircraft simply couldn’t even dream of attempting, the fact that helicopters can get in close to where they are needed, be that in a combat scenario, or a rescue requirement, the fact that more people get close to helicopters in everyday life than any other aircraft type generally means that these aircraft are held in great affection, and always have us looking skyward.
Over the years, we have seen a great many classic helicopter toolings inducted into the Aviation Archive hall of fame, and usually, most ranges will have a selection of different helicopter models for us to choose from, however, in recent times, our rotary subject pickings have been a little on the slim side. This has been for a number of reasons, and even though we do have plenty of active research files on the go, other projects have ultimately taken priority. Fortunately, that changed with the release of our Vietnam War ‘Golden Falcons’ Sikorsky SH-3A recently, although not without quite some prior effort by our long suffering rotary researcher.
We had been wanting to introduce this beautiful new model to the range much earlier than we eventually did, both because of the subject matter itself, and because of the unusual colour scheme the aircraft wore during operations, however, because of the clandestine nature of the operations these aircraft flew, very little in the way of detailed photographs existed of this aircraft, details we desperately needed for our project. Thankfully, our researcher never gives up easily, and after many hours spent searching, and after securing some quite rare reference books, he found what he needed, and we were ready for lift off.
Thankfully, our Golden Falcons SH-3A now has some military helicopter company alongside it, and from a presentation perspective at least, this one is definitely leaves it in the shade, Tiger Meet style. The new model’s release is also incredibly poignant, as it will join the range in the year which has witnessed the Royal Air Force saying farewell to its venerable and extremely hard working helicopter.
All the pictures used to illustrate this feature show an advanced production example of this incredibly attractive new helicopter model release.
This versatile medium lift helicopter can trace its origins back to an innovative collaboration between the aviation industries of both Britain and France, in an attempt to produce a series of three different types for service with both countries military forces, with the other two being the Gazelle and Lynx. Entering Royal Air Force service with No.33 Squadron in June 1971, the Westland Puma HC.1 proved to be an exceptional machine, possessing both impressive speed and agility, and was capable of carrying 16 passengers, 12 fully equipped troops, or 2 tonnes of cargo, either carried internally, as an underslung load, or via a combination of the two.
An incredibly versatile and reliable helicopter, the Puma quickly showed itself to be just what the RAF had been looking for, and as a consequence, wherever British troops were required to operate, be that in an offensive, peace keeping, or training role, the Puma would undoubtedly be there to support them. Despite being capable of carrying the loads detailed above, the Puma could do all this at speed, with its two Turbomeca Makila turboshaft engines capable of powering this rotary marvel to speeds of around 192mph, with the aircraft also possessing impressive manoeuvrability. Crews would be only too happy to tell you that flying a Puma was like driving a sports car, it was that much fun.
For an aircraft which was in service for more than half the life of the Royal Air Force (just about at this point), it will come as no surprise to learn that whenever the Royal Air Force has been required to support significant troop deployments at home, or around the world, the Puma was an important asset in allowing them to do so. Taking part in Exercise Lionheart in 1984, the largest British Army exercise since the end of the Second World War, the Puma would also see service during the Gulf and Iraq Wars, in Kosovo and Afghanistan, but significantly, would serve with distinction for 37 years supporting British Army operations in Northern Ireland.
The pride of No.230 Squadron, this beautifully presented Puma was awarded the Silver Tiger Trophy at the 2025 Tiger Meet event in Turkey.
For an aircraft which served for 54 years, it’s interesting to note that the Puma only underwent one major upgrade program during that time, when the final and definitive HC.2 variant entered RAF service in 2014, an upgrade which allowed this magnificent aircraft to remain on tasking right up until the day it was withdrawn from service.
That withdrawal from service was not allowed to take place without the RAF paying their own personal tribute to an aircraft which had served them so well for so long. The three Puma helicopters which made up ‘Warlock Flight’ took off from RAF Benson on the morning of 26th March this year, at the start of a two day farewell tour of sites which had been linked with RAF Puma operations over the 54 years it had been in service, with such locations as Odiham, Middle Wallop, Shawbury, Aldergrove, Catterick, Cosford and Duxford all being on their visit itinerary. By the time the Flight had returned to RAF Benson on the evening of the 27th, they heralded the end of a glorious service career for this magnificent helicopter, whilst at the same time, just allowed many thousands of people to pay their own final tributes.
Throughout the long and illustrious service life of the Puma helicopter, surely no Royal Air Force Puma has ever looked as spectacular as XW231 did when she represented No.230 Squadron at the 2005 NATO Tiger Meet event held at Balikesir Air Force Base in Turkey. A tradition which has seen NATO Tiger Squadrons gathering annually since 1961, these events see crews representing squadrons with tigers in their unit crests, coming together for exercises, conferences, or just to the absolute delight of aviation enthusiasts around the world, with some of the squadrons going to great lengths to ensure their aircraft stands out from the crowd.
For the event in 2005, a team from RAF No.230 Squadron based at Aldergrove came up with a rather spectacular scheme to mark their attendance at that year’s event, and were authorised to apply it to Westland Puma HC.1 XW231. I think I’m right in saying that I was fortunate enough to meet the talented man behind this magnificent artwork when visiting the Ulster Aviation Society a few years ago, and `I really must get back in touch with him to speak about this fascinating project.
In the year of the Puma’s service withdrawal, have you ever seen a more attractively presented example?
Anyway, the Puma arrived at Balikesir Air Base resplendent in her new tiger livery, and it will come as no surprise whatsoever to learn that this aircraft subsequently came away with the ‘Silver Tiger Trophy’ award at that prestigious event. Flushed with her success and knowing that she was a bit of a looker, she later went on to become one of the stars of the show at that summer’s Royal International Air Tattoo event, where the combination of tiger and Puma ensured she was one of the most photographed aircraft in the country that weekend. I suppose if you want to make your Puma an irresistible crowd pleaser of a helicopter, just paint it to look like a Tiger!
This magnificent new release should be in our warehouse by the time this latest update is published, and it should be making for a rather attractive addition to many an Aviation Archive collection in the weeks to come. Significantly, we will have this model on our display at RIAT this year, our tribute to the incredible career of the recently retired Westland Puma, and to mark the 20th anniversary of this very aircraft gracing the world’s largest military Airshow – we can hardly wait!
Eclectic and colourful Vanguards model trio inbound
We’re pleased to confirm that the Vanguards collectable model range is about to benefit from the arrival of a trio of different vehicle types, each one representing some of the most desirable cars in their respective manufacturers ranges, and each one presented in rather striking colour finishes. From a DCD content perspective, we can also confirm that the majority of the models are not representations of Ford cars, although considering their incredible popularity, I’m not sure if this will be viewed as a good, or a bad thing by DCD readers.
Using the copy produced in support of each new model, let’s take a closer look at each new model in turn now, supported by a selection of exclusive advanced production sample model imagery.
VA09307 – MG ZT+ 135 CDTI Monogram Caledonian
The manual MG ZT modelled here came off the assembly line at Longbridge at 08.13 on January 6th, 2005, only three months before the historic car plant, which was originally the home of Austin, closed when MG Rover collapsed. Monogram was MG Rover’s personalization programme, so few, if any, of the Monogram cars were identical. They went down a parallel production line and were hand sprayed in the customer’s chosen colour, which partly explains why this Scottish heather-inspired hue added £1,000 to the car’s price. Research carried out by enthusiasts has shown that only 16 Monogram Caledonian cars were made, and that this example is the second of only two ZT saloons.
It was ordered by a dealer to be a showroom attraction and as well as the + options pack, which included climate control, electric rear windows and a 6-CD multichanger, the dealer specified most of the extra available options to be fitted on the car including black leather seats, a sunroof and Harman Kardon audio equipment. The current owner, West Midlands-based ZT enthusiast Dan Hooper, is a founding member of the MG Rover Events group and has owned many MG Z cars. He purchased this example in November 2022 when it had covered 168,000 miles and used it daily for almost two years covering a further 16,000 miles. He then took it off the road to do the restoration work it is currently undergoing.
VA13406 – BMW E30 325i M-Tech 2 in Brilliant Red
The manual E30 modelled here was supplied by Williams BMW, Manchester, on the 17th of April 1991, and has an Anthracite Fabric interior plus an optional electric sliding sunroof. It was meticulously maintained by its first three owners and retains its original handbook pack, instruction manuals and radio guide. The fourth owner, London-based Philip James, purchased it from Altwood BMW, Maidenhead, in May 1997, when it had covered 38,600 miles, and kept it for 27 years. He loved the styling and driving experience but, reluctantly, decided to part with it after the ULEZ regulations made regular use impractical. He thus offered it for sale via Cheshire-based classic car specialists Manor Park Classics in April 2024.
It was purchased by the current owner, Northern Ireland-based Stephen Devine, a well-known BMW collector and enthusiast who was impressed by its extensive history file showing 32 service and 7 brake fluid stamps. At this point, it had covered 210,000 miles but still presented and drove very well because of the care and attention lavished on it by long-term owner Philip James. Soon after buying the car Stephen decided its condition and rarity justified a meticulous restoration back to showroom condition which he has now commenced. The E30’s sonorous straight-six engine, involving handling and exquisite understated style makes them popular with enthusiasts, and a well-restored example in this striking factory colour combination is bound to wow the crowds at classic car shows.
VA15405 – Ford Capri Mk2 3.0 X-Pack in Signal Green
The Capri modelled here is one of the best-known X-Pack Mk2 Capris in the UK, having won numerous trophies including ‘Best Modified’ at the 2017 Capri Mk II Register’s National Day, and ‘Overall Winner’ at the 2017 ‘Mild to Wild’ show. The bodyshell started life as a silver 1.6GL, which the then Somerset-based Capri enthusiast and restorer Adam Langley spotted for sale in Abergavenny, Wales, in 2015. He went to view the car and was impressed by how solid the bodyshell seemed and so purchased it to restore. He started by stripping it down to ascertain if it was as good as his first impressions had indicated and was pleased to find it was.
All these images feature an advanced production sample of this handsome model.
The car did, however, need some welding in the common corrosion spots, including the wheelarches, so Adam decided to build his dream 3-Litre X-Pack using a body kit supplied by the Capri Club, and strengthening the structure where needed to handle the extra power. He fitted a tuned Essex V6, a Type 9 5-speed gearbox and 2.8i suspension to improve the handling before finishing it off in a bright period correct Ford colour. He bought the TNT registration number because he felt it should have an explosive plate! Having enjoyed the car, Adam sold it in May 2018 to the current owner, Suffolk-based Dave Barnes. He has rebuilt and further tuned the engine, which now produces around 170bhp, and repainted it to ensure a lasting high-quality finish.
Each one making for a tempting addition to any collection of die-cast models, we’re expecting the Capri and MG ZT+ to be available imminently, with the BMW following on in about a week or so, but in our warehouse by the time the next edition of DCD is due, barring unforeseen disasters.
A Tankfest treat of die-cast proportions
This weekend will see thousands of people heading down to sunny Dorset to experience the latest Tankfest event at Bovington’s Tank Museum, one of the most spectacular events of its kind to be found anywhere in the world. An opportunity for some of the Museum’s tanks to feel the dirt beneath their tracks in the main display arena, this show is also famous for attracting some of the most interesting restored overseas military vehicles for the enjoyment of the gathered masses, which this year will see a running King Tiger thrilling the crowds.
Of course, the undisputed champion of historic armour under the care of the dedicated team at the Tank Museum is Tiger 131, the only genuine running Tiger I to be found anywhere in the world, and the vehicle which attracts visitors from all over the world to this beautiful part of the country. Unfortunately, Tiger 131 is not scheduled to be taking part in Tankfest 2025, but as things currently stand, you can still secure your own scale collectable version of this iconic machine on the Corgi website, our tribute to the armoured jewel in the Tank Museum’s crown.
For a tank which is historically one of the most feared enemy weapons to have ever appeared on a WWII battlefield, it’s fascinating to learn how the world's only running example of is now a much loved exhibit at a museum in deepest Dorset. Even more surprising than this is the fact that this fearsome armoured fighting vehicle is held in such affection by huge numbers of people all over the world, that it is simply known by the red identification numbers painted on its turret, ‘Tiger 131’. The Tank Museum’s famous Tiger I, or to give it it's correct title, former Schwere Panzer-Abteilung 504 Panzerkampfwagen VI Tiger I, turret number 131, holds the distinction of being the first Tiger tank to be captured intact by the Allied forces during the Second World War, and since falling into British hands 82 years ago, has gone on to become something of a tank celebrity, if there could ever be such a thing.
Once a famous and widely publicised battlefield war prize from the war in North Africa, this mighty tank has captivated the British public since its arrival in the UK, and following its restoration to running order, can always be relied upon to attract huge numbers of people to its Dorset home every time it graces the Tank Museum's impressive display arena. Once Tiger 131 has completed her latest starring role at a Museum event, the arena, where it had previously been standing room only just seconds earlier, the stands become strangely deserted, as the crowds flock to accompany this famous Tiger tank back across the site to her Museum display position, as if she were some kind of celebrity superstar. Those who have been fortunate enough to get close to her are fully aware that this is exactly what she is, and any chance to see her running at a Tank Museum event is an experience you’ll never forget.
This classic die-cast collectable release is currently available with a 50% discount, but with stocks fast running out, this Tankfest weekend might be your final opportunity to secure one.
Our 1/50th scale tribute to this magnificent machine is now down to last remaining stock levels on the Corgi website, and as the only military model in this scale still on the Corgi site, is now something of an endangered species. Currently available at half price, this is a steal for what has to be regarded as our tribute to the most famous military vehicle in the world, and is well worth adding to your collection, whether you’re heading down to Tankfest this weekend, or not.
If you haven’t already got one of these models in your collection, please do head for the Corgi website to take a look at our Tiger 131 model produced in association with The Tank Museum, as she really is a beauty, and she really has nearly gone.
Right then, time to get back to all that RIAT planning!
We’re afraid that's all we have for you this time around, however, we’ll be back as usual in two weeks’ time with a further exclusive selection of the latest Corgi model updates. As ever, you could always drop us a line if you felt moved to do so, to comment on anything blog, collecting or Corgi model related, or even perhaps to suggest a topic you might like to see the team cover in a future edition. As always, our diecastdiaries@corgi.co.uk address is the one to use.
If you can’t wait for the next blog, you will find plenty of Corgi model collecting discussions taking place on our official social media channels, access to which can be obtained by clicking on the respective links at the foot of the Corgi website homepage.
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Thank you for continuing to support your Corgi Die-cast Diaries blog. Our next edition is scheduled to be published on Friday 11th July, and we look forward to seeing you all back here then.
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Related Products
MG ZT+, Monogram Caledonian
VA09307 |
1:43 Scale
BMW E30 325i M-Tech 2, Brilliant Red
VA13406 |
1:43 Scale
Further Reading
Related Products
MG ZT+, Monogram Caledonian
VA09307 |
1:43 Scale
BMW E30 325i M-Tech 2, Brilliant Red
VA13406 |
1:43 Scale
Further Reading
Ford’s Raptor is all muscle and the Fleet Air Arm’s Taranto Raider
Star Trek exclusives, sporty British Vanguards duo and a Vulcan anniversary
