Rufe Dual Combo Limited Edition 1:48 Eduard 11171

Plastic model airplane kit: Rufe Dual Combo Limited Edition 1:48 Eduard 11171

We present the limited edition model of the Japanese floatplane fighter-bomber A6M2-N, known by the Allied code "Rufe", in 1:48 scale. This model kit from Eduard is a great opportunity to recreate one of the lesser-known but fascinating aircraft used by the Imperial Japanese Navy during World War II.

Model features:

• Scale: 1:48
• Plastic parts manufacturer: Eduard
• Decal options: 8
• Decals: Eduard
• Photo-etched parts: Yes, pre-painted
• Painting masks: Yes

Operational history of the A6M2-N: The Nakajima A6M2-N, known as "Suisen 2" (Hydro fighter type 2), was a single-seat floatplane fighter-bomber based on the Mitsubishi A6M Zero Model 11 design. This aircraft was introduced into service in 1942 and participated in operations in the Aleutians and the Solomon Islands.

During operations in the Solomon Islands, on August 7, 1942, nearly all Rufes were destroyed in an air raid conducted by 15 Grumman F4F Wildcats from the aircraft carrier USS Wasp. Nevertheless, the A6M2-N proved valuable in the Aleutians, particularly at Kiska, where the lack of airfields was not a hindrance, and the aircraft could operate from the water, freeing land-based fighters in the Kurils for other tasks.

Rufes also served as interceptors, protecting fuel bases in Balikpapan and Avon (Dutch East Indies) and reinforcing the Shumushu base in the Northern Kurils. These aircraft were used aboard the seaplane carriers Kamikawa Maru in the Solomon Islands and Kurils, as well as on Japanese raiders Hokoku Maru and Aikoku Maru during raids in the Indian Ocean.

In the later stages of the conflict, the Otsu Air Group used the A6M2-N as interceptors in conjunction with Kawanishi N1K1 Kyofu ("Rex") aircraft based over Lake Biwa in Honshu, suffering heavy losses. By this time, it was already known that the Rufe could not compete with modern fighter designs, leading to the cessation of production in September 1943.

The last A6M2-N in military service was recovered by French forces in Indochina after the end of World War II, but it crashed shortly after being repaired.

Assembly and painting kit. Does not include paints or glue. Assembly requires separately sold modeling tools (including cutters, files, tweezers), paints, brushes, and plastic model glue (e.g., Tamiya Extra Thin Cement). The photo shows a professionally assembled and painted model.