De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou RAAF 38 Sqn

General Product Description

Our PlaneArts De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou RAAF 38 Sqn model exhibits unique, unrivaled quality and detailed design to come as close as possible to the accuracy of the actual plane. It comes as standard with a robust, durable base or stand which is available in a variety of different finishes designed to match your own personal requirements including solid wood, wood with polished metal supports or adjustable wood wall mount and will be ready within about 9-10 weeks from placement of order.

The De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou RAAF 38 Sqn model is made of the finest kiln dried renewable mahogany wood (commonly known as Lauan or Meranti) which has undergone many stages of carving and meticulous and careful sanding giving the beautiful, finished museum quality masterpiece. Many collectors and model connoisseurs demonstrate their preference for genuine handmade and hand painted mahogany wood models rather than plastic or die cast (diecast) alternatives due to the overall look and totally different feel of the item - we trust you will find the same. We can however, if required produce the same model in Solid Cast Resin so just click and contact us for further information. Our craftsmen and gifted artisans ensure that our finely handcrafted model airplanes match the precise blueprint details of the original aircraft. The paint scheme, markings and parts are closely matched, reflecting the original aircraft. This stylish top-quality desktop replica model will surely enthrall anyone who receives this as a gift and for sure one of the most appropriate and desirably collectable gifts for any military aviation enthusiast and avid aircraft collector whilst also displaying a perfect resemblance to the actual real life version.

There are many types of military propeller aircraft, but the basic types are bombers, fighters, fighter bombers, spotter planes, transporters, patrol aircraft, trainers, and reconnaissance and observation aircraft. All these types of aircraft are used for different types of missions. If you're a fan of historic or present-day military aviation, our model aircraft will bring the excitement and character of these aircraft right into your own home. You can order a wood airplane model of a North American B-25 Mitchell Bomber, a B17 - Flying Fortress, or a P-51 Mustang Nervous Energy V not forgetting the Bf 109, Spitfire, FW 190, A6M Zero, P-38 and F4U. These classic, propeller airplane models are of the highest quality. Each is individually crafted by our expert craftsmen. They produce handmade scale mahogany airplane models of the finest aircraft from World War I and II to present day biplanes and triplanes.

If you require, we can also make the De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou RAAF 38 Sqn model in any other military, government or even private livery or colour scheme you require and if necessary, in a different size or scale. Just click here to contact us with a description or photographs of what you require, and we will let you have a quotation for the necessary customization by return email. We can also make bespoke scale replicas of any other private / civil commercial airliner or airliners, helicopter, glider, gliders with engines, military jet, warplane jets, biplane, triplane, tail fin, spacecraft, rocket or NASA model you require in any airline, military or civilian livery or colors. We also produce model airships, blimps, dirigibles, blimps, boats, and ship collectibles. Wall plaque or seal for military, government or private customers. Again, by clicking here to contact us just let us know exactly what you need.

The Mighty De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou: A Pillar of Australian Aviation

In the annals of aviation history, certain aircraft stand out not just for their performance or design, but for the indelible mark they leave on the communities they serve. One such aircraft is the De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou, a stalwart workhorse that became synonymous with versatility and reliability. Nowhere was this more evident than in its service with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), where it became an integral part of Australia’s military and humanitarian efforts.

Origins and Design:

The De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou, born out of the post-World War II era, was conceived as a rugged, short takeoff and landing (STOL) utility transport aircraft. Designed by Canadian aircraft manufacturer de Havilland Canada, the Caribou was specifically tailored to meet the demands of austere environments and challenging terrain. Its robust design featured high wings, a boxy fuselage, and fixed landing gear, all contributing to its exceptional STOL capabilities.

Service with the RAAF:

The RAAF’s association with the Caribou began in 1964 when it acquired its first batch of aircraft. Over the years, the Caribou fleet would grow to become an indispensable asset for the RAAF, particularly in remote areas and during humanitarian missions. Equipped with twin Pratt & Whitney R-2000 radial engines, the Caribou could carry up to 32 fully equipped troops or a substantial cargo payload, making it an invaluable tool for troop transport, medical evacuation, aerial resupply, and reconnaissance.

Operational Highlights:

Throughout its tenure with the RAAF, the Caribou proved its mettle time and again in a variety of operational roles. During the Vietnam War, Caribous provided critical airlift support to Australian forces and their allies, operating in challenging conditions to deliver troops, equipment, and supplies to remote bases and forward operating locations.

Beyond military operations, the Caribou played a pivotal role in disaster relief and humanitarian missions both domestically and abroad. From airlifting supplies during bushfires and floods to delivering aid to communities affected by natural disasters across the Asia-Pacific region, the Caribou earned a reputation for its reliability and versatility in times of crisis.

Retirement and Legacy:

Despite its storied history and enduring service, the Caribou was eventually retired from RAAF service in 2009, marking the end of an era. However, its legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of those who flew and serviced it, as well as the countless individuals and communities it served throughout its operational life.

Today, several Caribous are preserved in museums and private collections, serving as a testament to their enduring legacy and the role they played in shaping Australia’s aviation history. While newer aircraft have since taken its place, the De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou remains a symbol of resilience, adaptability, and the unwavering commitment of those who served with it.

In the annals of Australian aviation, the Caribou will forever hold a special place, remembered fondly as a true workhorse of the skies and a symbol of the RAAF’s motto: “Per ardua ad astra” – “Through adversity to the stars.”