Railway Models UK

Heljan releases decorated samples of its OO gauge Class 42 Warship, now featuring a striking DB-inspired livery.

Based on Heljan’s successful O gauge range, the first series announced in October 2024 now includes six models. The surprise addition is V200 021 Windhund dressed in a bold DB-inspired scheme, originally applied to the full-size D821 Greyhound preserved in the late 1980s at the North Yorkshire Railway. The design echoes the appearance of German DB V200 diesel‑hydraulics.

Liveries currently available

Class 42 Warship D826 Jupiter – BR Green
Class 42 Warship D808 Centaur – BR Green with full yellow ends (DCC ready & DCC sound)
Class 42 Warship D831 Monarch – BR Blue with small yellow panels
Class 42 Warship D868 Zephr – BR Blue with full yellow ends and the “Twin Arrows” livery
Class 42 Warship D832 Onslaught – BR Maroon with small yellow panels (DCC ready & DCC sound)

In partnership with Rails of Sheffield, Heljan has produced models of the original ‘Warship’ prototype, a version never before available ready‑to‑run. These exclusive models feature magnetic train‑reporting plates and retain original short or standard nose handrails, as well as underframe skirts between the bogies.

Class 42 Warship V1 D804 Avenger – BR Green with small yellow panels
Class 42 Warship V1 D812 The Royal Naval Reserve 1859‑1959 – BR Green
Class 42 Warship V1 D802 Formidable – BR Green with small yellow panels
Class 42 Warship V1 D800 Sir Brian Robertson – BR Green

Key specifications and details

Six independent lighting functions in DCC mode, including cab and engine‑room illumination
Illuminated head‑code blinds
Factory‑fitted twin speakers on every model
21‑pin DCC decoder interface
Etched grilles
Detailed interior engine‑room layout
Interchangeable buffer‑beam skirts (full and partial)
Sprung buffers
Five‑pole motor driving all axles
Double brass flywheels
All‑wheel pick‑up
Custom buffer‑beam detailing for each livery, including period‑appropriate multiple‑working equipment
Short or standard nose‑end handrails, as originally fitted
Magnetic GWR‑style train‑reporting numbers exclusive to the Rails D800‑D812 range
Fine lamp brackets, wire handrails, sandpipes, roof hatches and more, all individually fitted

All models are available DCC ready, with an accessible 21‑pin decoder interface or with factory‑installed DCC and sound.

The Class 42 “Warship” diesel‑hydraulics were some of Britain’s most distinctive locomotives during the steam‑to‑diesel transition. Introduced by the Western Region between 1958 and 1961, they borrowed loosely from the German V200 concept but were built by British Railways at Swindon, giving them a distinctly British feel. Their 2,000‑hp Maybach engines and light‑weight hydraulic transmission made them quick off the line, ideal for fast West Country services, and they soon became regulars on routes from Paddington to Plymouth and beyond.

Despite their impressive performance, the class had a comparatively brief operational life, being withdrawn fully by 1972 as BR standardised on diesel‑electric traction. Nevertheless, the Warships remain memorable, celebrated for their purposeful styling, spirited running, and the unmistakable roar of twin humming Maybachs across the Western Region.

Only two examples have survived in preservation: D821 Greyhound and D832 Onslaught; the rest have been scrapped.

Availability and pricing

Pre‑orders can be placed through Heljan stockists. Suggested retail prices are:

£219.00 DCC ready
£319.00 DCC sound

Heljan announces DB inspired 'Warship'

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