Tamiya 31613 - 1/700 USS Missouri Iowa Class Battleship Kit (1944-45) - Scale Modellers Edition  [31613]

USS Missouri - A Naval Icon in Miniature

The USS Missouri represents a peak of mid 20th century battleship design. Launched into service in 1944, she played a key role in Pacific theatre operations and later became the location for Japan's formal surrender on September 2, 1945.

Operational History and Modernisation

The Iowa class, including BB-61 Iowa and BB-62 New Jersey, combined high speed with heavy guns, featuring 40.6cm main batteries and a top speed near 33 knots. Missouri underwent a significant refit in 1986 to add modern weaponry and electronics, serving into the late 20th century until retirement in 1993.

Scale Representation and Details

This 1/700 scale Tamiya kit captures the ship's slim hull and detailed superstructure. It provides rotating main turrets and meticulously modelled secondary armament including 40mm and 20mm guns, plus two floatplanes: Vought OS2U Kingfishers and Curtiss SC-1 Seahawks.

Viewing the Battleship

The Battleship Missouri memorial gives a direct reference for detailing and paintwork. Tamiya used historical sources to ensure the kit reflects recognizable features for accurate modelling.