Fireball XL5 from "Fireball XL5" (1963-1965)

Scale: 1:288
Initial Release: 2024
Medium: Resin
Length: ​11.5 inches
Kit Rarity: 2

About the Design

"Fireball XL5" was the second children's sci-fi series created by the UK-based team of Gerry and Sylvia Anderson. Like their previous hit, "Supercar" (1961-62), "Fireball XL5" employed marionettes with electronically controlled mouths in a process they dubbed "Supermarionation." The series featured meticulously detailed miniatures created by special effects pioneers who would go on to work on the Anderson's signature "Thunderbirds," UFO," and "Space: 1999" TV series as well as several James Bond films.

The "Fireball XL5" itself was a massive interstellar spacecraft operated by the World Space Patrol (WSP) and launched horizontally by rail out of its advanced Space City HQ. The ship's mission was to patrol "Sector 25" and thwart alien invasion. The forward command section, dubbed "Fireball Junior," could detach from the main ship for safe landings on alien planets.

Although huge, the XL5 had only three human crewmembers -- a pilot, medical officer, and scientist/engineer -- along with a robot co-pilot.

About the Kit

This 1:288 cast resin and 3D printed kit was produced by Fantastic Plastic Models under license from Anderson Entertainment in 2024. The kit included a highly detailed cockpit, detachable Fireball Junior command ship, and a launch sled/display stand.

This model was built from an original issue.