In an effort to improve the Zero fighter’s performance, Mitsubishi installed a new 1113hp Sakae 21 engine with a two-speed supercharger and a larger Hamilton Standard propeller and called it the A6M3. A more rounded and slightly larger cowling was installed with the carburetor intake at the top. The folding wing tips were removed and fired over to increase maneuverability and to help compensate for the added weight of the new engine. This version was known as the Type 32 A6M3. The new engine didn’t use much more fuel at cruising speeds, but considerably more during combat. The clipped wing increased speed only slightly and the climb rate was reduced, along with the turning radius. Only 323 Type 32’s were produced, and they saw service in the Solomon Island campaign. In early 1942 it was decided to restore the wing tips and folding mechanics. Extra fuel was added to each wing. This version was the Type 22 A6M3. It preceded the earlier 32 but was held back due to Type 32 production. The Type 22 had the longest range of any Zero fighter produced and it was superior to the 32 in all respects. A total of 560 Type 22’s were produced, and they also served during the Solomon campaign.
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Product Details:
Scale: 1/72
Skill Level: 2
Length: 5”
Wingspan: 6.6”
Parts: 44
- Painting and assembly required
- 7 sprues
- Two-piece fuselage
- Assemble Type 22 or Type 32
- Molded in grey plastic
- One decal sheet
- Recessed panel lines
- Includes external stores
- Clear parts
- Detailed cockpit interior
- Includes decals and paint guides for the following versions:
- Type 22, 251st Naval Flying Group, NAP 1/C Hiroyoshi Nishizawa
- Type 22, 202nd Naval Flying Group
- Type 32, Tainan Naval Flying Group, NAP 1/C Takeo Tanimizu, September 1944
- Illustrated instructions and paint guide
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Paint Guide:
Black
Red
Silver
IJN Green (Nakajima)
Steel
Flat Black
Green (Mitsubishi)
Clear Red
Clear Blue
Metallic Blue Green
Orange Yellow
Burnt Iron
Semi-Gloss Black
RLM 66 Black Grey
Cowling Color
Cockpit Color (Mitsubishi)
Tire Black
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