Japanese Heavy Cruiser Chikuma

This is a highly detailed scale model assembly kit replica in 1/350 scale of the Japanese Heavy Cruiser Chikuma. Historical background The Chikuma was completed in May 1939 as the second ship of the Tone-class. She was the final heavy cruiser to be built by the Japanese Navy and featured a distinctive design which concentrated four twin 20.3cm main gun turrets forward of the bridge in order to allow unimpeded launching of her six floatplanes from the aft deck during battle. Chikuma often accompanied the Japanese Navy's aircraft carriers since her floatplanes provided considerable reconnaissance capabilities to the fleet, and she was present at such important engagements as the attack on Pearl Harbor and the Battle of Midway. She continued to serve valiantly until her demise at the hands of U.S. carrier aircraft during the Battle of Leyte Gulf in October 1944. About the Model • 1/350 scale plastic assembly kit of the Japanese Heavy Cruiser Chikuma. • Length: 576mm, Beam: 71mm. The sharp form of the ship has been accurately reproduced. • The model depicts the Chikuma in early-war form, prior to being refitted with additional equipment. • Differences from the Tone such as the signal lights and rangefinder antennas are faithfully depicted. • The ship's hull separates into port and starboard parts and the one-piece lower hull helps to produce the form of the beautiful bow. • The turrets feature precision-molded panel lines and radiator slits. • Parts such as masts and antennas are made from strong ABS plastic parts. • Bridge windows and searchlight lenses are reproduced with clear plastic parts. • Metal parts depict anchor chains and propeller shafts. • Nakajima E8N and Kawanishi E7K floatplanes can be set on the deck. Display stands for depicting aircraft in flight are included. • Full hull model display stand included.