Atlas Editions Fighters of World War II 4909-423
Kawanishi N1K2-J Shiden Kai/George Diecast Model
IJN 343rd Kokutai, Naoshi Kanno, 1945 |
| 1:72 Scale | | Length | | Width |
|---|
| Kawanishi N1K2-J Shiden Kai/George | | 5.25" | | 6.5" |
The Kawanishi N1K-J Shiden was an Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service land-based version of the N1K. Assigned the reporting name "George", the N1K-J was considered by both its pilots and opponents to be one of the finest land-based fighters flown by the Japanese during World War II. The Shiden Kai possessed heavy armament as well as surprisingly good manoeuvrability, due to a mercury switch that automatically extended the flaps during turns. These "combat" flaps created more lift, thereby allowing tighter turns. Unlike the Mitsubishi A6M Zero, the Shiden Kai could compete against the best late-war Allied fighters, such as the F6F Hellcat, F4U Corsair, and P-51 Mustang.
A descendent of the N1K1 floatplane, the Kawanishi N1K2-J Shiden Kai "George" was first flown on January 1, 1944. Although its development was plagued by production problems, the N1K2 was nevertheless considered one of the best dogfighters of WWII. It was very well-armed-with four 20mm cannons and two machine guns-and its high speed and agility made it a formidable opponent for any Allied pilot. The N1K2's influence on the war's outcome was limited, though, partially because of B-29 raids on Japanese factories that reduced the ultimate number of N1K2's entering service to just 415. © Copyright 2003-2024 The Flying Mule, Inc.
The Atlas Editions "Fighters of World War II" range presents affordable, ready made diecast models of military aircraft in 1:72 scale.
Atlas Editions diecast airplanes feature:
- Diecast metal and plastic construction.
- Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
- Permanently retracted landing gear.
- Presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
- Fixed, non-spinning plastic propellers.
- No pilot figures.
© Copyright 2003-2024 The Flying Mule, Inc.
