Hasegawa 02525 - 1:72 Mitsubishi G3M3 Type 96 Attack Bomber Nell Model 23 755th Flying Group

Plastic model kit of the Japanese bomber Mitsubishi G3M3 Type 96 “Nell” Model 23 in 1:72 scale

Hasegawa 02525 is a kit for self-assembly representing the Japanese twin-engine land-based bomber Mitsubishi G3M3 Type 96 in its Model 23 version. Known by the Allied code name “Nell”, the aircraft was one of the principal maritime bombers of the Imperial Japanese Navy in the early Pacific War and stood out for its exceptionally long range.

This is a limited edition in which a familiar Hasegawa mould is supplemented with a new decal sheet. The model represents an aircraft of the 755th Flying Group. Its surfaces carry the subtly recessed panel lines characteristic of the brand's kits.

What's in the box:

• Plastic sprues with fuselage, wing and powerplant parts
• Clear parts for the glazing
• Waterslide decal sheet with markings of the 755th Flying Group
• Illustrated assembly instructions

Specifications:

• Scale: 1:72
• Catalogue number: 02525
• Manufacturer: Hasegawa
• Assembled length: approx. 228 mm, wingspan: approx. 347 mm
• Difficulty level: intermediate

Note: The kit does not include glue, paints or modelling tools. The model is intended for self-assembly.

Assembly:

This is a large twin-engine model, best suited to modellers with some experience. The interior and cockpit are best painted before the fuselage is closed, as access to these parts is very limited afterwards. The extensive glazing also calls for care during assembly.

Colours typical of Imperial Japanese Navy aircraft are recommended; the instructions provide paint suggestions for the marking option offered. Aircraft are usually finished with a satin varnish, and decals are best applied over a gloss coat to avoid decal silvering.

Tools required:

• Modelling nippers for removing parts from the sprues
• Modelling knife or scalpel
• Files and sandpaper for cleaning up sprue-gate marks
• Plastic cement
• Brushes in various sizes
• Modelling paints (acrylic or enamel)
• A wash to bring out the detail

About the aircraft – Mitsubishi G3M “Nell”:

The Mitsubishi G3M was a Japanese twin-engine land-based bomber developed for the Imperial Japanese Navy in the mid-1930s. Its design emphasised long range, allowing it to operate over vast sea areas. The aircraft first flew in 1935 and quickly became one of the mainstays of the fleet's bomber force.

The G3M3 (Model 23) version received more powerful engines and increased fuel capacity, further extending its range. Aircraft of this type took part in operations from the first days of the Pacific War, including attacks on naval targets. As newer designs were introduced, the G3M gradually moved to auxiliary, transport and training duties.

Original aircraft specifications (Mitsubishi G3M3):

• Crew: 5–7
• Powerplant: two Mitsubishi Kinsei radial engines
• Wingspan: 25.00 m
• Length: 16.45 m
• Maximum speed: approx. 415 km/h
• Range: very long, over 4000 km
• Armament: defensive machine guns and a 20 mm cannon, plus a bomb or torpedo load

About the manufacturer – Hasegawa:

Hasegawa is a Japanese manufacturer of model kits based in Shizuoka, a city regarded as the centre of the Japanese modelling industry. The company has been active since the 1940s and has developed its range of injection-moulded plastic kits since the 1960s. Hasegawa is best known for its aircraft models in 1:72 and 1:48 scale, valued for finely reproduced, subtly recessed panel lines and good parts fit. A hallmark of the brand is its frequent limited editions with dedicated decal sheets representing specific, often commemorative aircraft. The range also includes ship, vehicle and car models as well as modelling accessories. Hasegawa kits are recognised and available among modellers worldwide.