Airfix 1/72 Mitsubishi A6M2b Zero Plastic Model Kit

When the Japanese Zero first entered service in 1940, it was without doubt the most advanced naval fighter in the world and quickly earned a reputation as a ruthless dogfighter. In early engagements, the Zero proved so effective that pilots were able to post an almost unbelievable victory ratio of 12 to 1 against their adversaries.

As the Wehrmacht began its march across Europe in 1940, little attention was being given to developments in the Far East. Following years of re-arming and upgrading, the Japanese Navy could boast some of the most advanced naval aircraft in the world within its inventory, including the superb Mitsubishi A6M Zero.

This long range Naval fighter would be at the forefront of Japan's expansionist ambitions throughout WWII and in the early war years, proved to be unequalled in the Pacific region.

The Zero also quickly earned a reputation as a dogfighter and Allied pilots quickly learned to avoid a slow, turning fight with this beautifully balanced aircraft. American pilots soon developed tactics that avoided playing into the hands of the Zero and began to score victories.

As newer fighters began to enter service, the A6M Zero began to show its weaknesses, which were a lack of armour protection for the pilot and no self-sealing fuel tanks in the wing. Using their boom and zoom hit and run tactics, the Americans finally began to get the measure of the feared Zero.

Contents:

• Plastic model kit, instruction sheet, paint layout sheet and decals.

This remarkable 1:72 scale model of the Mitsubishi A6M2b Zero consists of 47 components and is crafted, with a Skill Level 1 designation. Once assembled, the model boasts a wingspan of 166mm, encapsulating the essence of the premier naval fighter of 1940. This kit offers an engaging build experience that brings this historic aircraft to life.

Key Features

• 1:72 scale model with 47 components, ideal for beginners
• Skill Level 1 - suitable for those new to model building
• Wingspan of 166mm upon completion
• Detailed plastic construction reflecting the iconic Zero design
• Includes one authentic paint scheme
• Appropriate

History

Introduced in 1940, the Japanese Zero was undeniably the most sophisticated naval fighter of its time, quickly gaining a fearsome reputation in aerial combat. In initial battles, the Zero's effectiveness was such that pilots achieved an astonishing victory ratio of 12 to 1 against their opponents.

As the Wehrmacht advanced across Europe in 1940, the developments in the Far East received minimal attention. After years of re-arming and modernising, the Japanese Navy possessed some of the most advanced naval aircraft globally, including the exceptional Mitsubishi A6M Zero.

This long-range naval fighter spearheaded Japan's expansionist goals during WWII, proving unmatched in the Pacific theatre during the early years of the war. The Zero swiftly gained a reputation as a formidable dogfighter, prompting Allied pilots to avoid engaging in slow, turning battles with this well-balanced aircraft. American pilots soon devised strategies to counter the Zero, leading to their own successes.

As newer fighter aircraft were introduced, the A6M Zero's vulnerabilities became apparent, notably its lack of pilot armour and absence of self-sealing fuel tanks in the wings. By employing hit-and-run tactics known as boom and zoom, American forces eventually began to overcome the once-dreaded Zero.

Key Specifications

• Finish: Plastic
• Skill Level: 1

Full Specifications