Tamiya 61049 - 1/48 Mitsubishi G4M1 Isshikiriko (Betty)  [61049]

Towards Mitsubishi Isshikirikko Type 11

The MitsubishiG4M "Isshikirikko", and/or kind 1 land-based assault bomber, was developed to a "range-at-all-cost" specification. So as to pay the inferior fleet strength limited by the London and Washington Treaties, the Imperial Japanese Navy designed to help their naval operations from coast based aircraft.
Bombers with an extremely long range were in serious dependence on such missions, and this may be attained by designing the complete wing as fundamental gas tanks ad keeping the dwelling as light as you can, without and armor or self-sealing security. Defensive tools and armor protection for the crew had been additionally held to a minimum. To lessen the drag, bombs or torpedo were stored within a thick, cigar-like fuselage. The thin, wide wing contributed to have a fantastic stability and maneuverability during journey. Making use of two 1530hp Mitsubishi "Kasei" type-11 radial engines, the G4M obtained a maximum rate in excess of 420Km/h and a superb 4,200km or range. However, the 5,000 liters of fuel inside unprotected tanks made the bomber excessively vulnerable, therefore soon became understood to U.S. gunners since the "one-shot lighter."

With several improvements incorporated, the Isshiki Rikko stable served throughout the pacific War. Including all variations, over 2,400 units had been produced. It absolutely was part of the force which sank the British battleship HMS Prince of Wales and battle cruiser HMS Repulse at the start of the conflict. In 1945, it ended up being additionally used in carrying the Japanese surrender delegation to end the war.