Hasegawa – 02496 – Kawanishi E7K1 Type 94 Model 1 Reconnaissance Seaplane “Ashigara” w/Catapult

Description:

Hasegawa’s upcoming 1/72 scale kit Kawanishi E7K1 Type 94 Model 1 “Ashigara” w/Catapult offers a unique glimpse into the reconnaissance operations of the Imperial Japanese Navy in the late 1930s. The E7K1, known to the Allies by the code name “Alf,” was a three-seat reconnaissance seaplane equipped with a radial engine and used extensively from cruisers and battleships for scouting and artillery spotting. This particular release depicts the floatplane as it was deployed aboard the heavy cruiser Ashigara, one of the four ships of the Myōkō class.

The kit includes new bonus parts to build the shipboard catapult, allowing modelers to display the aircraft in launch position—a rare and visually striking setup in 1/72 scale. Decals are provided for two historical markings based on aircraft stationed aboard Ashigara around 1938–1939, including “Chunan-gō” and “Hōkoku No. 213 (Chunan-gō),” as well as the unit code “2-1-3.” These markings are based on realistic historical interpretations. With its combination of naval aviation history and distinctive maritime equipment, this kit is perfect for fans of early Pacific War-era aircraft or diorama builders interested in Japanese seaplane operations before World War II..

Hasegawa Kawanishi E7K1 is an old kit dated from the 70s, including catapult parts, it’s around 88 plastic parts for this small aircraft. Include two different markings for the Hokoku No. 213 aboard of the Ashigara.