The HMS Hermes was the first aircraft carrier designed from the keel up. Laid down in January 1918 and commissioned in July 1923, the Hermes provided invaluable experience and lessons for future designs for British carriers. At 13,000 tons deep load, 25 knots speed with a small hanger, as the original design was based on cruiser lines, and a huge island, the Hermes was restricted to a twelve aircraft complement by the start of World War Two. When Admiral Nagumo and the Japanese carrier strike force made a raid into the Indian Ocean, Hermes was caught south of Ceylon (Sri Lanka). Aircraft from Akagi, Soryu and Hiryu made short work of the old Hermes on April 9, 1942.

Hull and Flight Deck

John Currie provides photographs of the components of the 1:700 scale kit of HMS Hermes that has been released by H-P Models.

Island, Aircraft, Armament and Fittings

Box Art and Instructions

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