Tamiya 61018 1/48 Mitsubishi J2M Raiden Jack - Historical Aircraft Kit  [61018]

Overview of the J2M Raiden scale kit

This 1/48 scale plastic kit recreates the Mitsubishi J2M Raiden, the Japanese land-based interceptor often called Jack. The mouldings capture key features of the airframe, offering modellers a solid base for a historically faithful build and paintwork.

Development hurdles and engine choice

Work on the Raiden started around 1939 to produce a fighter tailored to interceptor duties. Selecting the right powerplant was a major challenge. Designers chose the air-cooled Kasei engine for its reliability, accepting the aerodynamic tradeoffs from its larger cross-section.

To mitigate those tradeoffs, engineers used a longer propeller shaft and a narrow cowling, and included a forced-cooling fan to keep temperatures under control. The design featured a spindle-shaped fuselage and fitted Fowler flaps to improve handling at lower speeds.

Operational use and legacy

After initial teething problems like vibration and restricted visibility were addressed, the Raiden served with units such as the 302nd Air Group at Atsugi. It played a defensive role over the home islands and recorded several successes in the war's final phase, despite mixed outcomes in earlier battles including the Mariana campaign.