Imperial Japanese Navy Mitsubishi Zero A6M2

The A6M Zero was a long-range fighter aircraft designed by chief designer Jiro Horikoshi, manufactured by the Mitsubishi Aircraft Company, a division of their Heavy Industries company and used by the Imperial Japanese Navy between 1940 and 1945. Introduced in the early part of World War II, it was recognised as one of the most capable carrier-based fighters in the world although it was also used as a land-based fighter. Given its excellent manoeuvrability, high speed and long range capability, it achieved a deadly rate of success against the Allies but as their aircraft technology advanced, the advantages of the A6M2 and some of its shortcomings resulted in it becoming less effective. Just under 11,000 were produced up to the end of 1945 with the most successful variation being the A6M2 - 21 with its folded wingtips for aircraft carrier use and expanded fuel tanks. Two other versions of the Model 21 were the floatplane with a modified tail; and a two-seater trainer, the subject of our 1:72 scale model.

Appearing in the bright orange yellow of the Imperial Japanese Forces, the engine cowl/gun barrel section is painted black and the graphics on the wings and fuselage are printed in bright red, with additional printing in black including the aircraft number on the tail. A final detail sees our model with the upgraded three blade propeller, which was introduced on the real thing to solve a vibration problem.