Corgi Aviation Archive Legends US33107
Mitsubishi A6M3 Zero-Sen/Zeke Diecast Model
IJNAS 204th Kokutai, T2-165, Shoichi Sugita, Rabul, New Britain, 1943 |
| 1:72 Scale | | Length | | Width |
|---|
| Mitsubishi A6M3 Zero-Sen/Zeke | | 5" | | 6" |
The Mitsubishi A6M Zero was a lightweight fighter aircraft operated by the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service (IJNAS) from 1940 to 1945. The origin of its official designation was that "A" signified a fighter and "6" for the sixth model built by Mitsubishi ("M"). The A6M was usually referred to by the Allies as the "Zero"—a name that was frequently misapplied to other Japanese fighters, such as the Nakajima Ki-43—as well as other codenames and nicknames, including "Zeke", "Hamp" and "Hap".
Its history mirrored that of the Empire of Japan in World War II. When it was introduced, the Zero was the best carrier-based fighter in the world and it was greatly feared by Allied pilots. The IJNAS also frequently used the type as a land-based fighter. A combination of excellent maneuverability and very long range made it one of the finest fighters of its era. In early combat operations, the Zero gained a legendary reputation, outclassing its contemporaries. Later, design weaknesses and the increasing scarcity of more powerful aircraft engines meant that the Zero became less effective against newer fighters. By 1942, due to the evolution of new tactics and techniques, Allied pilots were able to engage the Zero on more equal terms. By 1943, American and British manufacturers were producing fighters with greater firepower, armor, and speed, and approaching the Zero's maneuverability. The Mitsubishi A6M was outdated by 1944, but remained in production. During the final years of the War in the Pacific, the Zero was utilized in kamikaze operations.
First flown in April, 1939, the A6M Zero-Sen was the Allies' main opponent in the Pacific and the most famous symbol of Japanese air power during World War II. This carrier-based fighter, designed with a low-monoplane wing and armed with a formidable array of two 20mm cannons and two 7.7mm machine guns, proved capable of handling any of the Allies' aircraft. It wasn't until the Allies studied a captured Zero that they were able to identify and exploit weaknesses such as minimal pilot and fuel tank protection. Zeros became infamous for Kamikaze attacks, in which pilots would intentionally crash explosion-laden aircraft into Allied ships. © Copyright 2003-2025 The Flying Mule, Inc.
Corgi's 1:72 scale Zeros are constructed almost entirely of diecast metal with only the smallest amount of plastic used in the manufacturing process. The solid diecast metal wing features simulated fabric-stretched control surfaces with counter balance weights applied separately to the top. The large "bird-cage" canopy allows for easy viewing of a detailed hand-painted pilot figure. Radial engine detail is visible inside the engine cowling with machine gun ports on top for the internally mounted Type 97 guns. Most releases include removable landing gear and center mounted fuel tank that are easy to install for ground display (see photos).
© Copyright 2003-2014 The Flying Mule, Inc.
The Corgi "Legends" range presents affordable, ready-made diecast models of military and civilian aircraft.
Corgi "Legends" diecast airplanes feature:
- Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
- Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
- Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
- Permanently extended landing gear with rotating wheels.
- Presention stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
- Detailed pilot and crew member figures.
- Authentic ordnance loads complete with placards.
© Copyright 2003-2025 The Flying Mule, Inc.
