Railway Models UK

Dapol has revealed plans for a new batch of OO Gauge JNA‑Y bogie ballast wagons, continuing its line of MRA side‑tipping wagons.

JNA‑Y bogie ballast wagons are a common feature on Britain’s railways, known colloquially as Hawks. They evolved from earlier MRA side‑tipping ballast wagons that were refurbished to extend their service life and bring them in line with contemporary engineering standards.

During the refit, the MRA side‑tipping wagons were stripped down to their original frames and then rebuilt with new high‑capacity steel box bodies, resulting in robust open wagons suitable for loading and unloading by excavators or grabs.

In the early 2020s, roughly 300 JNA‑Y wagons were produced for Network Rail, making them one of the most common types in service across the national network.

Although classified as bogie ballast wagons, JNA‑Y wagons are frequently used for spoil and general infrastructure materials. They usually appear in long rakes but are also operated as single standalone wagons.

With their typical Network Rail yellow livery, these wagons are often heavily weathered, making them an integral part of today's railway landscape. Consequently, they would be a perfect addition to any contemporary OO gauge layout.

To ensure accuracy, Dapol consulted Loram, the original Hawks manufacturer, and had access to a prototype wagon. Like their MRA precursors, the new OO gauge JNA‑Y bogie ballast wagons replicate the various buffer beams fitted to the end and middle cars of the MRA.

Two versions of the JNA‑Y wagons will be available, both in Network Rail yellow. Two models will depict wagons positioned as outer cars in a rake, while four will represent inner cars; the only difference will be the running numbers. Prices start at £44.95 and pre‑orders can be placed at Dapol stockists.

The release of these wagons follows Dapol’s recent launch of two new six‑wheel tank wagons and specially liveried wagons to celebrate World Book Day.

Dapol anounces Hawks

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