Military Model Scene

The Japanese Type 4 Ke-Nu was essentially a real life conversions, when in 1944 they up-gunned the Type 95 Ha-Go light tank by fitting surplus turrets from Type 97 medium tanks, the Chi-Ha.  The Chi-Ha originally had a low velocity 57mm gun and these were replaced by newer turrets fitted with a high velocity 47mm.  The old turrets with the low velocity 57mm were then available to fit to the hull of a Type 95, creating the new Type 4 Ke-Nu that is featured in this new kit from Dragon.  Apparently there were about 100 of these conversions completed.

As for the kit, it is really nicely done and Dragon have made good use of their slide moulding techniques.  First impressions from opening the box are good.  There is no interior detail in the hull, jet the engine hatches can be fitted open or closed while the hatches themselves have etch brass mesh panels to fit on the inside surfaces.  The turret does have internal detailing, including the breech details for the main gun and the machine gun also fitted in it, along with the toothed ring of the turret traverse mechanism.  As well as the engine deck grills, there is etch mesh for the exhaust guard and for washers on the road wheels.  The tracks are the one piece DS Styrene style, have nice detail and are simple to use.  To be fair, with small track links, I am glad this one doesn't have individual link tracks.  With the multi colour IJA camouflage schemes this will be an interesting finish.

The latest stage is that it is built, apart from the mesh grill over the exhaust.  It has plenty to it, but it goes together well.

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Thanks to the UK importers The Hobby Company for this example. without a h issues.

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Robin