Hasegawa – 02488 – F-35 “Lightning II” (B Version) U.S.NAVY VX-23 Test of taking off and landing on KAGA

Description:

Unassembled plastic model kit in 1/72 scale of a U.S. Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II a multirole strike fighter.

In October 2024, a significant milestone in U.S.-Japan defense cooperation was achieved when an F-35B Lightning II, piloted by a test pilot from Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Two Three (VX-23), successfully conducted takeoff and landing operations on the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s (JMSDF) multi-functional destroyer JS Kaga (DDH-184).

These trials, conducted off the southern coast of California, were part of developmental tests to certify modifications enabling F-35B operations from the Kaga. The data collected during these sea trials will inform decisions to enhance the capabilities of the JMSDF and improve interoperability between Japan and the U.S.

The F-35B aircraft involved in the trials were U.S. test aircraft assigned to the “Salty Dogs” of VX-23, with test pilots from the F-35 Patuxent River Integrated Test Force (Pax ITF). This unit is responsible for testing all seagoing F-35 variants and comprises personnel from the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, U.K. Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, Lockheed Martin, British Aerospace, Northrop Grumman, and U.S. government civilians.

The JS Kaga underwent significant modifications to support F-35B operations, including a heat-resistant flight deck, additional lighting, and a reshaped flight deck to accommodate the aircraft’s capabilities. These enhancements are part of Japan’s broader military modernization efforts to bolster its naval aviation capabilities.

This collaboration underscores the strengthening defense ties between the U.S. and Japan, enhancing regional security and demonstrating a shared commitment to maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

About the kit, it’s a limited edition with a new decal sheet of Hasegawa F-35B kit tooled in 2018, a good kit with only one notable omissions, no bombs bay or weapons payload of any type are included, a common thing by other side in many Hasegawa kits. The kit is praised by its engineering and good fit, with some good details and options as posable canopy, landing gear bays, flaps, and lift devices. Additionally, it features a rotatable nozzle and includes a pilot figure, enhancing its realism.