FSX RAF 112th Desert Camo P-40

The RAF’s 112th Squadron left a remarkable legacy with their iconic “shark’s tooth” artwork, and this freeware rendition pays homage to that storied design. It bundles Robert Hawk’s complete Curtiss P-40 model with striking textures by Mark Rooks, all adapted specifically for Microsoft Flight Simulator X. Enthusiasts will find historical references to the famous desert camouflage scheme, originally used in North Africa. The detailed repaint replicates the same pattern used by the squadron, which notably transitioned from Gloster Gladiator biplanes to this American-built fighter. This package also provides several historical photographs and context for those wanting to delve further into this WWII-era warbird’s service record.

RAF Tones and “Shark’s Tooth” Inspiration

The aircraft depicts the Tomahawk variant under the RAF 112th Squadron, whose hallmark was the menacing mouth painted on the engine cowling. This emblem, associated with the unit’s presence in desert theaters, later inspired the American Volunteer Group in China. The external textures incorporate sandy and brownish camouflage tones, designed to blend with arid landscapes. These liveries highlight subtle shading, showcasing the complexity of the RAF’s approach to aerial warfare camouflage.

Heritage of the Curtiss Fighter

Developed by Curtiss-Wright, the P-40 series gained acclaim for its rugged airframe and ability to withstand harsh climates. In many theaters, the aircraft assumed a vital fighter-bomber role, displaying exceptional durability. The flight envelope permits agile maneuvers at lower altitudes, and the robust Allison engine delivered respectable power, especially during ground-attack operations. Although it was not the fastest of its generation, the P-40’s resilience resonated with Allied pilots throughout World War II.

Visual and Cockpit Enhancements

This repaint features refined color gradients that bring out each rivet and panel line with clarity, enhancing both external and interior modeling. Mark “Fire Ball” Rooks meticulously adjusted the textures to highlight the desert camouflage patterns, resulting in an immersive feel when viewed from multiple angles. Cockpit details remain especially distinct, providing an authentic representation of the Tomahawk’s original instrumentation elements, and preserving realism during flight checks or combat mission simulations.

Included Imagery

Installing the Package

1. Unzip the downloaded content to a convenient folder or your desktop.
2. Locate the “RAF P-40 112 Sq” folder and move it into the main aircraft directory. Typically, in Microsoft Flight Simulator X, this directory is found in:
   C:\Program Files\Microsoft Games\FSX\SimObjects\Airplanes
3. Transfer any included gauges or special effects files into their respective subfolders (e.g., Gauges or Effects), preserving the original structure to ensure full functionality.

Additional Notes

The repaint and accompanying files were put together by Mark “Fire Ball” Rooks, and the base model remains the expertly crafted work of Robert Hawk. Although Mr. Hawk has passed on, his dedication to flight simulation lives within this carefully rendered Curtiss P-40. Users are invited to enjoy this iconic warbird and reflect upon the dedication of those who brought it to life, both in history and in the virtual skies.

Thank you for downloading and immersing yourself in this exciting piece of simulation history.
— “Fire Ball”