Tora Tora Tora! A6M2 Type 21 Limited Edition 1:48 Eduard 11155

Plastic model airplane for assembly: Tora Tora Tora! A6M2 Type 21 Limited Edition 1:48 Eduard 11155

We present an exceptional model for assembly in 1:48 scale, which allows you to recreate one of the most famous Japanese fighters from World War II – the Mitsubishi A6M2 Zero Type 21. This limited set from Eduard enables the construction of Zero aircraft that participated in the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Model features:

• Scale: 1:48
• Plastic parts manufacturer: Eduard
• Marking options: 12
• Decals: Eduard
• Photo-etched parts: Yes, pre-painted
• Painting masks: Yes
• Resin parts: No

Mitsubishi A6M "Zero" – historical background:

The Mitsubishi A6M "Zero" is a long-range fighter capable of operating from aircraft carriers, produced by Mitsubishi Aircraft Company, part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. It was used by the Imperial Japanese Navy (IJN) from 1940 to 1945. This aircraft, also known as the Mitsubishi Navy Type 0 carrier fighter, earned the nickname "Zero" from the last digit of the imperial year 2600 (1940), when it entered service.

At the time of its introduction into service at the beginning of World War II, the Zero was considered the most capable carrier-based fighter in the world. It combined excellent maneuverability, high speed, strong armament, and a very large range. The Imperial Japanese Navy often also used it as a land-based fighter.

In the early combat operations, the Zero gained a reputation as an excellent fighter, achieving an impressive kill ratio of 12 to 1. However, by mid-1942, new tactics and the introduction of better equipment allowed Allied pilots to engage on equal terms with the Zero. By mid-1943, the deterioration of fighter pilot training in the IJNAS contributed to a decrease in the effectiveness of the Zero in engagements with new Allied fighters.

The Zero did not have hydraulic assistance for ailerons and the rudder, which made maneuvering at high speeds difficult. The lack of self-sealing fuel tanks made it more vulnerable to damage than its contemporary counterparts. By 1944, the A6M was already outpaced by Allied fighters and was considered outdated, although still capable of fighting if it had well-trained pilots. Despite delays in design and production difficulties of new Japanese aircraft models, the Zero continued to serve on the front lines until the end of the Pacific War. In the later phases of the war, it was also adapted for kamikaze operations. Japan produced more Zero aircraft than any other combat model during the war.

Assembly and painting kit. Does not include paints or glue. For assembly, separately sold modeling tools are needed (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.