1:48 Scale Model Kit: Mitsubishi F1M2 Type Zero Observation Seaplane (Pete) Model 11 'Battleship'

The Mitsubishi F1M was a Japanese all-metal reconnaissance and patrol seaplane from World War II. The prototype made its maiden flight in 1936, and the aircraft was designed by engineer Joji Hattori. However, due to engine problems, the aircraft did not enter mass production until 1940. Only two versions of this aircraft were built, each powered by a Nakajima Hikari-1 engine capable of speeds up to 875 km/h. The first (F1M2) primarily performed reconnaissance, patrol, and combat missions, operating both from ship-based catapults and from fixed bases. The second, the F1M2-K, was a training version. Between 1940 and 1945, 1,118 units of this aircraft were built. Technical specifications: length: 9.5 m, wingspan: 11 m, height: 4 m, maximum speed: 370 km/h, rate of climb: 8.68 m/s, maximum range: 740 km, maximum service ceiling: 9,440 m, armament: fixed—2 Type 97 7.7 mm machine guns and 1 Type 92 7.7 mm machine gun; external: up to 120 kg of bombs.