Hasegawa Press Release: More New Releases Coming in May
By Chris Banyai-Riepl
1/72 Scale Shin Meiwa US-1"Rescue Ivory"
All set for amphibious rescues
Like the earlier PS-1, the US-1 and US-1A are STOL(Short Takeoff and Landing) aircraft. However, while the PS-1 featured on-board beaching gear for anti-submarine warfare, the US-1 and US-1A are amphibious search-and-rescue aircraft. From 1976-1999, the US-1A saved 550 lives in 500+ rescue missions. Shin Meiwa only built six US-1s and fourteen US-1As for the JMSDF in all, but they’re still being flown today!
Kit Features:
Resin parts
Two decal marking options:
- US-1A: JMSDF 71st Sq., Code: 9090
- US-1: JMSDF, Code: 9071
Total Parts: 137
Skill Level: 3
Stock Number: HSGS2094
Retail Price: $59.99
1/72 Scale MV-22B Osprey “VMM-162 Golden Eagles”
Providing assault support since 2006
The latest US Marine Corps troop transport, the MV-22B Osprey combines the functions of a heli with the speed and range of a turboprop airplane. In 2006, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 162 (VMM-162) became the USMC’s second operational Osprey squadron. Also known as the “Golden Eagles,” VMM-162’s achievements have included carrying U.S. Presidential candidates through Iraq in 2008 and helping Haiti after its tragic 2010 earthquake.
Kit Features:
Display stand parts
One decal marking option:
- US Marine VMM-162 “Golden Eagles,”Code: YS01, YS00
Total Parts: 140Skill Level: 3
Stock Number: HSGS2093
Retail Price: $49.99
1/72 Scale F-15SG Strike Eagle “Singapore Air Force”
Singapore’s ferocious all-weather fighter
The F-15 Strike Eagle has one of the most storied histories of any currently operational American fighter aircraft. These fighters served with distinction in the Middle East, and its broad range of mission profiles encouraged Singapore to import it for use in their Air Force. Twenty-four of these aircraft have been purchased by Singapore so far.
Kit Features:
New antenna parts and decals for two aircraft:
- Singapore Air Force Code: 8320
- Singapore Air Force Code: 8302
Total Parts: 166
Skill Level: 3
Stock Number: HSGS2092
Retail Price: $49.99
1/72 Scale F-16BM Fighting Falcon “JSF Test Support”
A surplus of support
The F-16BM is the result of a Mid-Life Update package developed by the USAF and European Partner Air Forces. The Royal Danish Air Force initially received 61 F-16BMs; within a few years, it received a second shipment with 59 more aircraft. Some surplus F-16BMs were sold to Pakistan, Chile and Jordan; others became Joint Strike Fighter test support aircraft for the newer F-35 Lightning II.
Kit Features:
One decal marking option:
- Danish AF, 461st FTS, Code: ET210
Total Parts: 97
Skill Level: 3
Stock Number: HSGS2095
Retail Price: $42.99
1/48 Scale 21st Kokusho A6M2-K Zero Type 11 (Late) “302nd FG”
Japan’s top-notch combat trainer
Produced in small numbers, the A6M2-K Zero was an upgraded, two-seat trainer version of the celebrated Japanese aircraft. This variant was distinguished by an additional seat and controls for a second pilot, as was a full canopy and fins on the fuselage sides. Early versions were built at Japan’s 21st Naval Air Depot; later models were assembled by Hitachi®.
Kit Features:
Resin parts
Two decal marking options:
- IJN 302nd FG, Code: Yo D-501
- IJN 343rd FG, Code: 343-01
Total Parts: 117
Skill Level: 3
Stock Number: HSGS7372
Retail Price: $54.99
1/48 Scale Nakajima Ki-43-III Hayabusa (Oscar)
Emperor of the sky
In side profile, the Ki-43 looked exactly like the Japanese Zero. Both planes were light, fast and lethal, but it was the Ki-43 which shot down the most Allied aircraft. The plane’s high speed and maneuverability made it a favorite of several Japanese Army Air Force aces, but its lack of armor made it vulnerable to counter fire. The Ki-43-III was an experimental design which used a larger engine and drop tanks to extend the fighter’s range.
Kit Features:
New engine parts and decals for two aircraft:
- IJAAF 65th FR Metabaru AFB August, 1945.
- IJAAF 204th FR, Code: 01. Taiwan, August, 1945.
Total Parts: 82
Skill Level: 3
Stock Number HSGS7371
Retail Price: $57.99
For more information on these and other Hasegawa kits, visit the Hasegawa USA website.