Hasegawa JT37 Nakajima Ki44-II ko Shoki (Tojo) 85th Flight Regiment 1/48

The Nakajima Ki44-II ko Shoki (Tojo) fighter aircraft model offered by the renowned Hasegawa company, bearing the catalog number JT37, is an exceptional choice for modelers interested in World War II aviation. The kit is manufactured in the popular 1/48 scale, which offers an excellent compromise between detail fidelity and the ease of displaying the finished model.

The Nakajima Ki44 Shoki, known to the Allies under the code name “Tojo,” was a fighter aircraft used by the Imperial Japanese Army Air Force (IJAAF). Its production began in 1940, and it saw wide usage between 1942-1945, in the period of World War II. The Ki44-II ko version featured increased armament, improved engine cowling, and aerodynamic modifications. This aircraft was primarily used to intercept B-29 Superfortress bombers during American air raids over Japan. Thanks to its rapid climb rate and above-average speed, it was highly valued as an interceptor, especially by the 85th Flight Regiment, which this set represents.

• Scale: 1/48
• Country of service: Japan
• Historical period: World War II (1942–1945)
• Material: high-quality polystyrene plastic
• Category: plastic model kit (assembly and painting required)
• The kit does not include glue, paints, or assembly tools
• The model parts are extremely precise, featuring delicate panel line details and a detailed cockpit interior
• Decals are included to reproduce the markings of the 85th Flight Regiment

I recommend this model to both intermediate and advanced modelers — I rate the difficulty as 3/5. Assembly requires precision, but thanks to the meticulously prepared instructions and the high quality of part fitting, it will be a satisfying challenge even for hobbyists with less experience.

The Hasegawa JT37 Nakajima Ki44-II ko Shoki "85th Flight Regiment" kit is a great option for those interested in the history of far eastern World War II aviation. The impressive aircraft with its unique silhouette, once assembled, constitutes a fine highlight of any 1/48 scale model collection, providing an opportunity to delve deeper into the subject and showcase the variety of Japanese designs from that era. With its exemplary casting quality, this model guarantees real pleasure when working on every detail!