HMAS Vendetta II (D08) Pre-Modernisation Destroyer Model 80cm (Please enquire)

This highly detailed model of HMAS Vendetta II (D08) depicts the famous Royal Australian Navy Daring-class destroyer as she appeared before her extensive 1971–73 half-life modernisation.

The earlier configuration preserves Vendetta’s original and elegant Daring-class silhouette, including her open bridge arrangement, original superstructure, distinctive mast and radar equipment, three twin 4.5-inch gun turrets and other period-specific fittings. This appearance is closely associated with the most historically significant years of her service, including her deployment to the Vietnam War in 1969–70.

Carefully handcrafted with close attention to the vessel’s pre-modernisation features, markings and equipment, this model offers an important representation of Vendetta before her appearance was substantially changed during the 1970s refit. It is an especially meaningful display piece for former members of her ship’s company, their families, naval-history enthusiasts and collectors of Royal Australian Navy models.

Key Feature of the HMAS Vendetta II D08 Pre-Modernisation Destroyer model:

• Realistic recreation of the HMAS Vendetta II Destroyer in her pre-1971–73 modernisation configuration
• Designed and hand-crafted from scratch with real-life markings and equipment.
• Frame built and constructed by hand, pained by hand, for the utmost realism.
• No plastic used’ this is made entirely from wooden planks which are hand-placed.
• Model comes with a brass nameplate on the base, and a history sheet included.
• Size specifications: 80cmL x 12cmW x 25cmH, scale 1:150.

The history of the HMAS Vendetta II D08 Destroyer

The HMAS Vendetta II D08 Destroyer was a Daring-class destroyer that proudly served in the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) from 1958 to 1979. This remarkable vessel held several distinctions, being the first all-welded ship constructed in Australia and the first RAN ship to venture into a combat zone during the Vietnam War.

The Daring-class destroyers were a series of ten ships built for the Royal Navy, with three additional vessels constructed for the RAN. These destroyers were specifically designed for anti-aircraft warfare, equipped with six 4.5-inch guns, six 40mm Bofors anti-aircraft guns, and three Limbo anti-submarine mortars. Additionally, the ships boasted a Type 293Q air/surface search radar and a Type 275 fire control radar, enhancing their combat capabilities.

HMAS Vendetta’s construction commenced at the Williamstown Naval Dockyard in Melbourne, Victoria, on February 22, 1957. Her launch occurred on March 15, 1958, and she was officially commissioned into the RAN on December 13, 1958.

HMAS Vendetta’s distinguished service culminated in her decommissioning from the RAN on October 9, 1979. She was subsequently broken up for scrap, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of service, courage, and innovation.

HMAS Vendetta’s contributions to the RAN are undeniable. She pioneered all-welded ship construction in Australia and paved the way for future RAN vessels. Her unwavering commitment during the Vietnam War exemplified the bravery and dedication of the RAN personnel. Today, HMAS Vendetta remains etched in the annals of Australian naval history, a testament to the nation’s maritime prowess and the valor of its sailors.