Product overview: - All-new mold 1/72 scale plastic model kit of the Kyushu K11W Shiragiku, produced by KP Models (Czech). - Depicts the Imperial Japanese Navy onboard work trainer K11W, developed and manufactured by Kyushu Aircraft. - Versatile subject: used as a trainer, short-range transport, liaison aircraft, antisubmarine patrol, and late-war kamikaze roles.
Kit features: - Includes a 3D-printed Tenpu Type 21 air-cooled 9-cylinder engine part. - Two canopy options: early and late type (one each). - Two types of landing gear parts. - Paint mask sheet for accurate painting. - Four decal options for different markings. - Finished model dimensions: length approximately 139 mm, wingspan approximately 208 mm.
Historical background: - Development assigned to Watanabe Ironworks (later Kyushu Aircraft) as a successor to the earlier trainer; the first prototype was completed in 1942. - Mass production began in 1943 as the prototype K11W1, followed by the K11W2 variant. Both were officially adopted in 1944. - Known for good stability, handling, and spacious interior, making it suitable for multiple roles beyond training. - Deployed in the Okinawa campaign as kamikaze aircraft after 1945 orders. A total of 798 units were produced; more than 370 remained at the end of the war, with some later used for Green Cross flight operations.