1/72 Mitsubishi G3M2 (Nell) Type 96 Bomber Model 22/23

Up until recently, nearly all existing kits of Japanese bomber aircraft have been sadly dated affairs from the 1960s or even earlier. But over the last two years, Hasegawa has gone nuts and produced gorgeous new toolings of all of Japan's historically important WWII bombers. The Type 96, or "Nell" is the latest in that string of releases, coming out simultaneously with the Type 100 Heavy Bomber "Donryu."

This kit features the usual Hasegawa touches on panel lines and the like. Cockpit and other interior detail is sufficient for the scale, though super-detailers will probably want to add to it. Armament details are very nice, as is the belly bomb rack (choice of 250kg or 60kg bombs - included), and all those little external antennas. Comes with "weighted" tires, too. The dorsal turret can be assembled with or without gun, and the pilot's overhead canopy window can be assembled open or closed. Optional spinners included, too. Decals for two aircraft, a China-based bird and a domestic one.