Hey model builders, if you are looking for a kit that brings high‑tech to your workbench, then the Revell GFLF Simba 8×8 is exactly the right choice.
We have developed this airport firefighting giant in 1:24 scale so that it is not only an optical monster with eight wheels and endless details, but also captures the sheer power of the original, which ensures absolute safety at large airports such as Frankfurt. It offers you hours full of challenges and creative freedom, perfect for everyone who loves large commercial vehicles.
Revell GFLF Simba 8×8 in the Revell Shop
The Simba comes from specialist Rosenbauer and was specifically developed for the high demands of modern airports. We have implemented this in the kit so that from the movable chassis through the detailed firefighting arm to the distinctive tyres everything screams “perfect modelling project”. This kit will grab you with its complexity and authenticity.
From special chassis to airport icon: the story of the Simba
The story of the Simba begins in the 1970s when airports were confronted with ever‑larger jets such as the Boeing 747 and the old firefighting vehicles reached their limits. Rosenbauer responded with a special chassis built specifically for extreme firefighting performance. The first Simba rolled out in 1980 initially with six wheels, but already in 1984 the 8×8 version appeared, driven on all axles, which set the new standard.
For Frankfurt, eight of these beasts were created at the beginning of the 2000s to replace the predecessors and to be suitable for the Airbus A380. They weigh 49 tonnes when fully fuelled, are twelve metres long and pump thousands of litres of foam per minute. This development turned the Simba into a symbol of progress in airport firefighting. Today they still patrol the aprons of this world and prove why they became number one.
Technology that makes model builders’ hearts beat faster
Imagine a colossus with two 600‑hp turbo‑diesels driving eight wheels via Allison transmissions and accelerating almost 50 tonnes from zero to 80 km/h in 21 seconds. That is the Simba 8×8 in the original. It carries 12,500 litres of water, 1,500 litres of foam and 500 kilos of powder with it while the firefighting arm spits 3,500 litres per minute. The cab made of steel and the body made of glass‑fibre‑reinforced plastic create the angular look that in the model calls for perfect paintwork and weathering effects.
For you this means that every axle, every lever and every hose is modellable. The movable parts such as doors and arm invite dynamic poses. This technology is a feast for detail freaks. It underlines how the Simba not only extinguishes fires but is also fast and manoeuvrable to reach every corner of the airfield within minutes.
Revell GFLF Simba 8×8 im Revell Shop
Operations that inspire you for dioramas
In daily service with Fraport Frankfurt, the Simba fleet forms the heart of the fire brigade. They carry out thousands of operations per year, from routine checks through engine fires to motorway assistance next to the airport. During exercises they show themselves in action, full throttle over asphalt, spraying foam fountains onto training aircraft with spectacular blue lights in the dark. Such scenes are pure gold for your models.
In Frankfurt the Simbas shine during simulated A380 fires or help with real tyre fires beside the runway. Fortunately no major disasters, but countless moments that make the vehicles look like heroes. How about scenes of night alarms to give your models realistic traces such as foam residues or rubber tyre marks.
The Revell kit in detail, your building adventure
We at Revell have designed the GFLF Simba 8×8 in 1:24 as a real “parts festival” with hundreds of individual parts for advanced builders from 13 years upwards. The chassis is built up step by step with a fine frame, axles and engines. The tandem front axle moves, the tyres look massive and realistic. The cab opens to reveal a detailed interior with seats and equipment.
The firefighting arm and nozzle are movable, ideal for action poses. Decals for Frankfurt markings and effects complete the package. We at Revell have thought through the instruction with colour codes, yet it leaves room for dirt, rust or LED upgrades. A dream for everyone who wants precision and creativity.
Ideas for your masterpieces and finishing
Build an apron scene with an A380 background and the Simba in attack mode, or a night alarm with ground crew. Use photos for arm positions, foam traces and asphalt reflections. Add hoses, brackets or cab lighting. From factory‑new to veteran‑in‑service the possibilities are endless.
Additional information on the kit
We at Revell offer the kit in 1:24 scale in the high‑detail segment. Several hundred parts for experienced builders. Detailed chassis, movable arm, realistic tyres and firefighting technology included. Of course with an extensive, revised instruction with colours and decals for the perfect airport FFM look.
Revell GFLF Simba 8×8 im Revell Shop
Inspiration for building
Here you can see one of our models equipped with LEDs:
and here is the real Simba on its way to firefighting assistance at a forest fire near Frankfurt: