Special Hobby 1/72 Nakajima Ki-43-III Hayabusa / Oscar # 72488

The Nakajima Ki-43-III Hayabusa (Allied code name: "Oscar") was a Japanese single-engine, single-seat fighter aircraft that served in the final years of World War II.

This third variant of the Ki-43 series, known for its agility, was an upgrade from earlier versions with improvements in speed, firepower, and overall performance.

The Ki-43-III featured a more powerful Nakajima Ha-115-II engine, boosting its top speed to approximately 358 mph (576 km/h) and enhancing maneuverability.

It was armed with two 12.7 mm machine guns and had provisions for carrying bombs or drop tanks for extended range.

Its lightweight construction and high maneuverability made it a formidable dogfighter, though it was increasingly outclassed by newer Allied aircraft in terms of armor and firepower.

Renowned for its graceful handling and exceptional turn rate, the Ki-43-III was primarily used by the Imperial Japanese Army Air Service in various Pacific theaters.

Despite being overshadowed by more advanced aircraft later in the war, the Ki-43-III remained a symbol of Japan's innovative approach to fighter design.