Hobby Master 1:72 Air Power Series Diecast Model

Nakajima B5N2 "Kate" - Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service (IJNAS), IJN Aircraft Carrier Zuiho, April 1943

1:72 Scale.  Length: 5.6”.  Wingspan: 8.5"

The Nakajima B5N (Allied code name “Kate”) was a carrier-based torpedo bomber used by the Japanese Navy (IJN) during World War II. It carried a crew of three: pilot, navigator/bombardier and radio operator/gunner. The B5N1 was first flown in January 1937 and went into production soon afterwards with the designation Type 97 Carrier Attack Bomber. The B5N2, a version with a more powerful engine and various modifications, replaced the B5N1 in production and service starting in 1939. The aircraft achieved particular successes at the battles of Pearl Harbor, Coral Sea, Midway and Santa Cruz Islands. Although the B5N was nearing obsolescence by 1941, it was used throughout the war, initially in front line service and later in secondary roles.

The original name for the Zuihô was the Takasaki. The Takasaki was being built as a submarine tender but the IJN decided to complete the ship as an aircraft carrier. the Zuihô (Lucky Phoenix) was commissioned in December 1940. The ship helped to cover the invasion of the East Indies, took part in the Battle of Santa Cruz, Battle of the Philippine Sea in June 1944 and the Battle of Leyte Gulf in October 1944. During one of the four major encounters of the Battle of Leyte Gulf the Zuihô was one of the IJN ships acting as decoys. On October 25, 1944 the Zuihô was sunk.


Hobby Master offers a wide selection of quality, pre-assembled, diecast model airplanes. Each model is crafted to a high level of accuracy using specifications of the original aircraft. They are constructed with precision-made diecast metal and some plastic components.

This model of a B5N Kate by Hobby Master features: