SKU: ICM32044 | Brand: ICM | Product: ICM 1/32 J-8 Gladiator WWII Swedish Fighter Plastic Model Kit Following heightened European tensions, Sweden's defense ministry authorized expansion of its fighter force in 1936. The selection process identified the Gloster Gladiator as meeting operational requirements, resulting in an order for 55 aircraft fitted with locally-sourced engines and weaponry. Swedish Air Force acceptance began April 15, 1937, with the designation Jaktplan 8 (J8). The initial 37 airframes incorporated Gladiator Mk.I specification with 645 hp NOHAB-built Bristol Mercury VIS2 engines and Fairey three-bladed propellers; the subsequent 18 aircraft were constructed to Mk.II standard with 840 hp NOHAB-built Bristol Mercury VIII engines and reverted to fixed-pitch two-bladed wooden propellers. Consequently, the first batch became known as the J8, with the later production designated J8A.