1:350 Heavy Cruiser Chikuma

This is a highly detailed scale model replica in the 1/350 scale of the Japanese Heavy Cruiser Chikuma.  Historical background  Chikuma was the last heavy cruiser the Imperial Japanese Navy constructed during WWII and was completed in May 1939 as the second ship of the Tone-class. Her four twin 20.3cm guns were located at the bow to enable unhindered operation of up to 6 floatplanes at the stern. Her design also enabled a top speed of 35 knots and a long-range. She was assigned to the Carrier Mobile Fleet with her sister ship Tone. During the Pearl Harbor Attack in December 1941, her floatplanes carried out pre-attack reconnaissance over the Pearl Harbor, which greatly contributed to the IJN's success of the operation. She was also active during the Battle of Midway and the Solomon Islands campaign. During the Battle of the Leyte Gulf in October 1944, she was the flagship of Admiral Kurita's fleet and contributed to the sinking of the USS Gambier Bay but she was in turn damaged by torpedoes and scuttled off the coast of Samar Island.  Construction Type Assembly kit  Decals Included  Photo-Etch Parts Included  Scale 1/350  The Chikuma before she was refitted with additional AA guns, radar, and air defense command center.  Kit includes a Reference Booklet that provides background information for the Chikuma as well as a full-color Painting Guide.  Model may be assembled as a full hull model mounted on a display stand or a waterline model.  The use of small screws enables secure attachment of the hull and deck.  Highly detailed main gun turrets. Gun barrels articulate from 2 different angles.  V-shaped ventilator ducts and funnels included.  Most components are made from ABS plastic for greater durability.  Photo-etched parts such as aircraft trolleys, catapult rails, and mast braces included.  Anchor chains and propeller shafts are made with metal parts.  Floatplanes included and come with display stands.