1/72 IBG Model PZL/IAR P.11F Romanian Fighter on Skis 72522

The PZL P.11F was Romania’s licensed-built version of the Polish P.11 fighter, based on Eng. Zygmunt Puławski’s gull-wing design. After showcasing the improved P.11/V prototype at the 1934 Paris Air Show, Romania purchased production rights, though political and financial issues delayed the project. The prototype—refitted with a Romanian IAR 9K engine—arrived in early 1936, and production at IAR Brașov began later that year with support from Polish engineers.

Compared to the P.11c, the P.11F featured a stronger 600-hp IAR 9K engine, different cowling, Szomański propellers, Stomil tires, and enhanced armament of four 7.92 mm FN Browning machine guns, making it the best-armed P.11 variant. Building this all-metal aircraft significantly advanced Romania’s aviation industry and paved the way for later projects like the IAR 80.

The first P.11F entered service in mid-1937, and the last of 95 aircraft was delivered in November 1938. Though becoming outdated by 1939, they formed an important part of Romania’s air force. The P.11F served during the 1940 territorial crises, the 1941 Yugoslav campaign, and early Operation Barbarossa—mainly in ground-attack roles—before being relegated to air defense and training. The type remained in training use until 1948. No examples survive today.