1/72 72001 FE Resin Mitsubishi Kawasaki A8V1 Type S Dick - Seversky 2PA-B3
Resin Model Kit, Box Condition: NM
Rare. Nicely detailed, limited-run, high-definition resin kit with a good cockpit and full decals. The kit has never been started. The parts are still in the internal factory sealed bags and includes instructions. This aircraft was exported to Japan by Seversky as the 2PA-B3 and accepted for operational service by the Imperial Japanese Navy as the A8V1 Type S Two Seat Fighter. The history of this type in Japanese service is obscure and not covered in any detail in the main English-language references for Japanese aircraft. The aircraft were supposedly imported as a result of Japanese anxiety over escalating losses for their unescorted strategic bombing raids with Type 96 G3M bombers deep into China from bases in Formosa (Taiwan) which had begun in 1937. The purchase contract for 20 Seversky 2PA-B3, c/n 122-141 had been negotiated secretly but was to cause controversy in the USA and subsequent difficulties in Serversky's relationship with the US government and military. Sources differ on exactly when the aircraft were delivered, but it must have been at least prior to October 1938. The Japanese were not happy with the performance but these did see action and were relegated to a reconnaissance role over central China with the 12th Kokutai, operating from bases around Nanking. It was not in service long and three were withdrawn and sold for civil use. Two ended up with Asahi Newspaper company and a third to Tokyo Nichinichi Newspaper company.
This item has been sold.
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