1/48 N1K2-J Shindenkai George 301st F

Hasegawa - 1/48 N1K2-J Shindenkai (George) '301st Fighter Sqadron'

The Kawanishi N1K was designed as a robust floatplane fighter that was more capable than the A6M2-N Rufe (Zero floatplane) and could provide the Japanese Navy with front-line fighter support where runways are not yet available. Designated as the N1K1 Kyofu (Rex), the aircraft started service entry in 1943, but by that time, Japan's forward momentum had been blunted and was being pushed back. Even as the N1K1 was in production, the Kawanishi engineers foresaw the potential of this powerful aircraft if it could be separated from its heavy floats and a land-based variant was developed with conventional landing gear.

Designated N1K1-J Shiden (George), the aircraft had serious potential but also exhibited some latent issues based upon its floatplane heritage. A redesign was begun almost immediately to move the wings from mid-fuselage to low-wing, the fuselage was lengthened for greater stability, and it was designed with roughly 1/3 the parts of the N1K1-J. This new aircraft was the N1K2-J Shiden-Kai and with this aircraft, Japanese Navy pilots had a formidable fighter that could match the F6F Hellcat and the P-51 Mustang. While the aircraft was very successful, it couldn't be produced fast enough to change the outcome of the Pacific air war.

Hasegawa has become a leader in scale plastic kits by producing highly detailed models that impress the most demanding hobbyists. Because of the accuracy found in such areas as cockpits, interiors, engines, weapon bays and aircraft wheel bays, many Hasegawa models are built by professionals for museum displays. Ultimately, Hasegawa understands that the reward in model building goes beyond successful assembly. For the enthusiast, each model represents an opportunity to explore history, learn more about the subject and create a scale miniature to enjoy for a lifetime.

Features:

-Accurate scale model

-Highly detailed model kit

-Detailed instructions provided

-May require assembly and painting

-Waterslide decals

-Illustrated instructions

-Beautifully detailed cockpit

-Positionable canopy

-Detailed Homare engine

-Positionable cowl flaps

-Positionable wing flaps

-Positionable landing gear

-Optional centerline drop tank

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