The development of the four turboprop engine Vanguard began in 1953 when Vickers-Armstrong was asked to submit plans for a successor to the Viscount, this despite the fact that it had yet to enter regular scheduled service.  The Vanguard made its maiden flight on January 20, 1959 and was initially powered by the troublesome Rolls-Royce Tyne engine.  BEA initially ordered 20 Vanguard V951 model fitted with the Tyne engine.  After accepting six V951s the balance of the order was completed as the V953 model with improved Tyne turboprop engines.  The Vickers Vanguard began entering service in 1961 to start replacing the older Viscounts on many short haul, high density European routes.  The design of the Vanguard included ample space below the passenger cabin to haul freight.  When used as an Air freighter, the Vanguard could haul a startling eight tons of cargo on short haul routes.  Some Vickers Vanguards were subsequently converted for use by BEA and British Airways solely as air freighters and were named the Merchantman.  Outside of Great Britain, Trans Canada Airlines (later Air Canada) ordered and flew 23 V952 Vanguard IIs.  The Vanguard also found limited service with a number of other airlines.  While the Vanguard was relatively economical to operate, its continued success was undermined by the subsequent rapid introduction of new short to medium haul jet airliners such as the Caravelle and later the larger Trident 1s.  The Vanguard could carry up to 139 passengers at speeds of up to 415 mph.  This older Classic Airliners (Special Edition) Vickers Vanguard scaled model includes the following features: 1) Authentic markings for a Vickers Vanguard flown by British Airways; 2) Clear plastic cockpit & cabin glass areas; 3) Molded in gray colored plastic; 4) Boarding ladder; 5) Recessed panel lines; 6) Painting guide and 7) Illustrated assembly instruction.  Note: 1 blade of a 4 blade propeller has been cleanly broken off but is present to glue back onto the propeller hub.  The box is in excellent condition.  The box is in new condition.  Never started and 100% complete with all parts, decals and instructions inventoried.