Dragon Models 1:72 Armor Collector Series 60434
Mitsubishi Type 97 Chi-Ha Display Model
IJA 9th Tank Rgt, Saipan, 1944 |
| 1:72 Scale | | Length | | Width |
|---|
| Mitsubishi Type 97 Chi-Ha | | 3" | | 1.25" |
Dragon Armor is adding to its range of Japanese subjects in its much sought-after 1/72 scale range. The new arrival is a Type 97 Chi-Ha tank, Japan’s most widely produced medium tank of WWII. Boasting a short-barreled 57mm main gun and two Type 97 machine guns, this tank was intended to serve as an up-scaled version of the Type 95 for infantry support. Armor protection was modest on this vehicle. A total of 2,123 tanks were produced from 1938-43, although 930 of these were of the improved Type 97 Kai version featuring a higher-velocity 47mm gun. The tank could move at a speed of 38km/h.
The Chi-Ha was used in combat in Manchuria and China, as well as fighting against the Allies. Indeed one of the largest tank attacks of the Pacific theater occurred at Saipan in 1944 when 36 Type 97 tanks of the IJA’s 9th Tank Regiment conducted an all-out attack against US Marines. Dragon Armor’s model portrays one such Type 97 Chi-Ha medium tank that participated in this ferocious battle on Saipan. The colorful camouflage paint scheme is particularly well rendered. The accurate markings such as Japanese characters on the side of the hull, national flag emblems, prominent turret images and rear number plate. These markings are very interesting, especially when compared with contemporary Allied or German markings. Japanese tanks of WWII don’t usually gain the attention that equivalent German ones do, so this model allows collectors to get acquainted with a very important Japanese tank design.
Designed to replace the Type 89 in the infantry support role, the Type 97 prototype was completed in 1937 and the type entered full-scale production in 1938. © Copyright 2003-2024 The Flying Mule, Inc.
Dragon's 1:72 scale Chi-Ha Tank is constructed almost entirely of die-cast plastic, which allows for the greatest possible level of detailing. The rotating turret features a fixed main gun, rear facing machine gun and a delicate semi-circular antenna mounted on top. Battlefield equipment such as a jack, a shovel and a pick are separately mounted at the rear of the hull. Each of the top mounted engine exhaust muffler are fitted with a fine photo-etched metal heat-shield. Additional features include fine scale rivet head details on the top and underside and a clear view of the bell-crank suspension system through the vehicle's tracks.
© Copyright 2003-2013 The Flying Mule, Inc.
The Dragon Models "1:72 Dragon Armor Collector Series" range presents highly-detailed, ready-made plastic models of military vehicles. Dragon Armor tanks require no glueing or painting. Each model is an instant display piece or diorama centerpiece straight from the box and is 100% true to scale... these don't look like model tanks, they look like tanks!. Color, camouflage and unit markings are carefully researched for Maximum authenticity, marking the difference between and authentic scale model tank and a "toy" tank.
Dragon Models "1:72 Dragon Armor Collector Series" display model vehicles feature:
- Molded plastic construction (some releases include diecast metal components).
- Rotating turret, elevating cannon and accurate hull.
- Painted, fitted, non-moving tracks and detailed non-rotating wheels.
- Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
- Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
- Clear acrylic display case to protect model.
© Copyright 2003-2024 The Flying Mule, Inc.
