ICM 1/48 Mitsubishi Ki-21-Ib "Sally", Japanese Heavy Bomber (100% new molds) # 48195

The Mitsubishi Ki-21-Ib, nicknamed "Sally," was a renowned Japanese heavy bomber aircraft used during World War II.

Introduced in the late 1930s, the Ki-21-Ib was part of the Ki-21 series, which included several variants designed for different roles, including medium bombers and transport aircraft.

The Ki-21-Ib was a twin-engine, mid-wing monoplane with a robust construction and a crew of five.

It was powered by two Mitsubishi Ha-101 radial engines, which provided the aircraft with a top speed of around 265 miles per hour (426 km/h).

The bomber was equipped with a defensive armament consisting of a dorsal turret, ventral turret, and a tail gunner position, making it a formidable adversary in combat.

Sally was well-regarded for its ability to carry a significant payload of bombs and played a crucial role in the early stages of Japan's expansion in the Pacific during World War II.

It was used in various theaters of the war, including the China-Burma-India theater, where it was employed for strategic and tactical bombing missions.

While the Mitsubishi Ki-21-Ib "Sally" was effective in its early years, it became increasingly vulnerable to Allied fighters as the war progressed due to its relatively slow speed and limited defensive capabilities.

Nevertheless, it remained in service until the end of the war and left a significant mark on Japanese aviation history as a symbol of the country's early efforts in the development of heavy bombers.