Tamiya 61049 - 1/48 Mitsubishi G4M1 Isshikiriko (Betty)  [61049]

About the Mitsubishi Isshikirikko Type 11

The MitsubishiG4M "Isshikirikko", and/or sort 1 land-based attack bomber, was made to a "range-at-all-cost" specification. To be able to purchase the substandard fleet energy limited by the London and Washington Treaties, the Imperial Japanese Navy developed to help their naval operations from shore based aircraft.
Bombers with a very long range have been in serious significance of such missions, this might be accomplished by producing the whole wing as fundamental gas tanks advertisement maintaining the dwelling as light as possible, without and armor or self-sealing protection. Protective tools and armor security the team was in addition held toward absolute minimum. To reduce the drag, bombs or torpedo finished up being certainly conserved within a thick, cigar-like fuselage. The slim, wide wing contributed to own a fantastic protection and maneuverability during journey. Utilizing two 1530hp Mitsubishi "Kasei" type-11 radial machines, the G4M knew a maximum cost over 420Km/h and an exceptional 4,200km or range. However, the 5,000 liters of gasoline inside unprotected tanks made the bomber exceptionally vulnerable, therefore quickly became grasped to U.S. gunners although the "one-shot lighter."

With a few improvements included, the Isshiki Rikko stable served through the pacific War. Including all variations, over 2,400 products was produced. It had been one of the keys force which sank the united kingdom battleship HMS Prince of Wales and battle cruiser HMS Repulse in the very beginning of the conflict. In 1945, it turned out furthermore utilized in maintaining japan surrender delegation to accomplish the war.