1/72 Nakajima Type 100 Heavy Bomber Donryu (Helen)

Description

This is an injection-plastic aircraft model kit.

Hasegawa is on a roll with Japanese bombers, releasing this kit simultaneously with their Type 96 Nell.

Developed in 1938, this two-engined heavy had a particularly undistinguished career, suffering from all the usual problems of Japanese planes (low protection), and few of their strong points (range, maneuverability). It was also underpowered. Nevertheless, the Japanese produced nearly 900 Donryus (Allied code name “Helen”) and they saw extensive action in China.

The actual aircraft’s shortcomings notwithstanding, the kit is marvelous. Detail and sharpness are typical Hasegawa. Comes with 250kg bombs and the bomb bay doors can be assembled open or closed. Armament detail is also quite nice, including that on the tail gun (the Donryu was the first Japanese plane to have one). Decals are included for two different Hamamatsu Flying School aircraft.