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

Kawanishi N1K1-J Shiden - Conversion and Combat Profile

The Kawanishi N1K1-J Shiden was a land-based fighter adapted from the N1K1 "Kyofu" floatplane by Kawanishi Aircraft as a private project, then accepted by the Imperial Japanese Navy. Its initial flight in December 1942 started the Shiden's operational history marked by clever engineering choices for a wartime fighter.

Driven by the Nakajima Homare engine, the Shiden combined robust performance with notable agility. Designers addressed the large propeller diameter by using telescopic landing gear to suit the midwing layout. Production ran to around 1,000 aircraft, and the type served in campaigns such as the Philippines, Formosa and Okinawa.