by Jeffrey Sissons
Model photographs by the author
| Aircraft: | IJA Ki-45 Toryu ("Nick") |
| Year: | 1941 |
| Country: | Japan |
| Crew: | Two |
I bought this Fly Model from Germany and it sat in my ‘to make’ tray for ages. I was often tempted, but never made it. It would be my first twin-engined model and my first model from that manufacturer.
The things that attracted me to the aircraft were the similarities to the UK Mosquito and the pattern of the camouflage; also the two giant cannon sitting out over the pilot's head were an inspiration to start cutting out the model.
A piece of 1mm card is provided as the strengthening material for the A3 booklet that contains the kit. This is very handy. I checked other Fly Model kits I had and, sure enough, 1mm card is also given with other models (just one sheet per model). Top marks for this Fly Model.
I can say that the whole model went together so well that the joint lines between fuselage sections could not be seen. The tail plane, rudders and wings are simply added to the fuselage with accuracy that surprised even this reviewer. I was so pleased that I went on to construct the engines next.
Each nacelle is made up exactly like a small aircraft model with card formers. The undercarriage doors have to be cut out after the nacelles have been completed and are dry. I pre-cut the ends to ensure an easier job when cutting out the doors.
The props, wheels and guns made the Toryu an exciting model. To all those who love Japanese and multi-engined aircraft, this is the kit for you.
So my first twin-engined aircraft and my first Fly Model went exceedingly well. Now, where’s that four-engined Avro Lancaster I put in the attic last year?
| Model: | Kawasaki Ki-45 Toryu |
| Kit: | Fly Model No. 40 |
| Scale: | 1:33 |
| Dimensions: | Length: 13 inches Wingspan: 18 inches Height to tail: 4 inches |
