July 01, 2025

Preview: Kotare's new Spitfire Mk.I PR Type A in 32nd scale

Kotare Models is to introduce a new series of exclusive limited-edition numbered Photo Reconnaissance Spitfire models in 1/32nd scale. First up is the Spitfire Mk.I PR Type A kit. We have art, CADs history & a feature set of the kit in our preview...

Preview: Kotare's new Spitfire Mk.I PR Type A in 32nd scale

Spitfire Mk.I PR Type A
From Kotare
Kit No #K32501
1/32nd scale
Over 140 parts
35 cm wingspan.
Decals from Cartograf.
Expected fourth quarter of 2025.
Price: US$109
A new marque of Spitfire in a new series...
Kotare is pleased to introduce a new series of exclusive, limited-numbered edition models of photo reconnaissance Spitfires to honour the incredibly brave pilots who flew these (typically) unarmed aircraft deep into enemy territory at great risk. For too long have their exploits and aircraft gone unrecognised.

The Subject: The Spitfire Mk
The Spitfire Mk.I PR Type A marked the beginning of the Supermarine Spitfire’s transformation from a frontline fighter into a high-performance photographic reconnaissance aircraft. Developed in late 1939 by the Royal Aircraft Establishment (RAE) at Farnborough, this variant was a modified Mk. I stripped of all armament to reduce weight and increase speed. It was equipped with a pair of vertical F.24 cameras mounted in the wings, allowing it to capture high-resolution imagery from altitude. The PR Type A was the first in a lineage of reconnaissance Spitfires that would evolve dramatically over the course of the war.

Ready for a mission, Mk.I PR Type A no. N3071 revs up on the grass. 
The PR Type A had a relatively short operational window but played a pivotal role in shaping future reconnaissance doctrine. It was first deployed by the “Heston Flight,” a special unit formed to conduct clandestine photo missions over enemy territory. The aircraft’s lack of range and defensive armament limited its effectiveness, but its speed and altitude performance gave it a fighting chance to evade interception. Operational experience quickly revealed the need for extended range, leading to the development of the PR Type B and subsequent variants with additional fuel tanks and improved camera configurations.
The PR Type A retained the elliptical wing and Merlin II or III engine of the standard Mk.I, but its modifications were tailored for stealth and endurance. With the guns removed, the aircraft’s clean lines and reduced weight allowed it to fly faster and higher than its combat counterparts. However, its limited fuel capacity and basic camera setup meant it was best suited for short-range missions. Despite these constraints, the PR Type A laid the groundwork for the Spitfire’s long and distinguished career in aerial reconnaissance—a role in which it would excel through dozens of refined variants over the course of the war.

The kit:
Kotare is pleased to announce that K32001 Kotare 1/32 Spitfire Mk.I PR Type A is now available for pre-order. The kit features some of the previous Kotare kits, so you know what to expect. Although this one is a strictly limited, numbered edition, once the first production run is ended, no more will be produced.
Kit features:
- This kit includes a new canopy hood with unique tear-drop side blisters, gun port plugs, and camera lenses.
- High-quality Cartograf decals for N3069 & N3071, No. 2 Camouflage Unit, November-December 1939.
- This kit is part of an exclusive limited edition of 2000 hand-numbered models. No more will be printed after this run.
- Models #0001 and #2000 will be auctioned off to support the Big Buddy charity of New Zealand.

Pre-order bonuses:
Pre-order before release and receive a beautiful (and highly collectable) Darryl Legg box art print suitable for framing and a 32P001 Kotare 1/32 Spitfire Mk.Ia (Mid/Late) 3D-printed exhaust (value US$12.99) free of charge. Only available while stocks last.
Shipping is expected during the 4th quarter of 2025. Pre-order deposit payment in full with 100% refund available on request up to the actual shipping date.

 This kit is now available for pre-order directly from their website...