Hasegawa – 02490 – Mitsubishi Ki-46 III Koh Modified Air Defense Fighter Independent Flight 17th Squadron

Description:

Unassembled plastic model kit in 1/72 scale of a Japanese WWII fighter aircraft Mitsubishi Ki-46.

The Mitsubishi Ki-46 III, also known by its Allied reporting name “Dinah”, was a refined version of Japan’s highly regarded twin-engine reconnaissance aircraft developed for the Imperial Japanese Army Air Force during World War II. Originally designed in the late 1930s, the Ki-46 series was created to fulfill the need for a fast, high-altitude aircraft capable of conducting long-range reconnaissance missions deep into enemy territory — a role the Ki-46 would excel at for much of the war.

The Ki-46 III variant, introduced in 1942, featured several improvements over earlier models. Most significantly, it was powered by two Mitsubishi Ha-112-II radial engines, delivering more power and allowing for greater performance at higher altitudes. The fuselage was redesigned to be more aerodynamically streamlined, notably replacing the stepped canopy of the Ki-46 II with a sleeker, flush glazed nose, improving forward visibility and reducing drag. These changes resulted in a top speed of around 630 km/h (390 mph), allowing the aircraft to outrun most Allied fighters at the time of its introduction.

Lightly armed — or often completely unarmed in its reconnaissance role — the Ki-46 III relied on its speed and altitude to evade interception. However, as Allied aircraft caught up in performance, a small number of Ki-46 III-Kai (modified interceptors) were produced late in the war with forward-firing cannons to intercept high-altitude bombers like the B-29 Superfortress, though with limited success.

Admired by both Axis and Allied pilots for its elegant lines and performance, the Mitsubishi Ki-46 III was one of the most successful reconnaissance aircraft in the Pacific theater, providing critical intelligence throughout the war. A few examples survive in museums today, preserving the legacy of this exceptional wartime design.

Limited edition kit of the Hasegawa Mitsubishi Ki-46 III.

Include new PE (photo-etched) parts for the upward facing 20mm gun and include a single marking, Modified air defense fighter: Japanese Army Independent Air Squadron 17 (Chōfu Airfield: 1945).