Tamiya 61038 Kawanishi N1K1-J Shiden 1/48 Classic Fighter Kit  [61038]

From Sea Plane to Frontline Fighter

The Kawanishi N1K1-J Shiden evolved from the N1K1 "Kyofu" floatplane into a land-based fighter through Kawanishi Aircraft's private development, later adopted by the Imperial Japanese Navy. Making its maiden flight in December 1942, the Shiden combined innovative design choices with frontline capability.

Fitted with the Nakajima Homare powerplant, the N1K1-J delivered impressive agility for its class. Its large propeller forced novel undercarriage engineering such as telescopic landing gear to clear the midwing. Close to 1,000 examples were produced and the type saw action in areas including the Philippines, Formosa and Okinawa.