Designed for the Imperial Japanese Army, the Ki-61 Hien was their answer for a general, air superiority fighter. Its unusual appearance in New Guinea earned this aircraft the nickname "Tony," since it was mistaken for an Italian plane. A Ki-61 Special Attack Unit - formed by the 10th Hiko Shidan Air Division - had a mission to organize air combat missions against enemy at high altitudes. The Chofu Airport opened in 1941 was home to Kawasaki Hien fighters, specifically for defense against the B-26 Superfortress bombing raids.
This 1/72 scale, die cast model of a Ki-61 "Tony as it appeared in the IJAAF, 244th Sentai, Chofu Airport in Japan, 1944, features signature red and green markings and accurate paint scheme, realistic panel lines and surface details, and a mid-flight display stand. 6½" wingspan.
This 1/72 scale, die cast model of a Ki-61 "Tony as it appeared in the IJAAF, 244th Sentai, Chofu Airport in Japan, 1944, features signature red and green markings and accurate paint scheme, realistic panel lines and surface details, and a mid-flight display stand. 6½" wingspan.