The Tamiya 1:48 Mitsubishi A6M5/5a Zero Zeke model kit is a precisely engineered plastic model kit, dedicated to enthusiasts of military aviation and World War II history. It faithfully recreates the legendary Japanese fighter aircraft, the Mitsubishi A6M5/5a Zero, renowned for its role in the Pacific Theater.
History of the Mitsubishi A6M5/5a Zero
In the early stages of the Pacific War, the Japanese Mitsubishi Zero fighter dominated the skies. However, with the introduction of new, more capable fighter aircraft by the United States Navy and Army Air Forces, such as the Hellcat and Corsair, a significant modernization of the Zero design became necessary. In 1943, the A6M5 variant emerged, equipped with a more powerful engine, reinforced wing structure, and armament consisting of two cannons and two machine guns. This modernization increased speed and firepower, partially at the expense of maneuverability. At the beginning of the following year, the modernized 5a version was developed, featuring further wing modifications that allowed for loading more ammunition into the cannons. The new Zeros began their combat service in the Solomon Islands, continuing through the Marianas, Iwo Jima, Okinawa, and finally to the Japanese home islands. By the end of the war, approximately 6,000 Mitsubishi Zero aircraft in the A6M5 and M5a versions had been produced.
Contents of the Tamiya 1:48 Mitsubishi A6M5/5a Zero Zeke Kit
This Tamiya kit allows you to assemble a 1/48 scale model of the World War II Japanese fighter aircraft, the Mitsubishi A6M5/5a Zero. The box contains:
Plastic frames containing model parts (4 sprues).
Separate engine cowling.
Sprue with clear parts for the cockpit canopy.
Masking tape for the pilot's canopy.
Decal sheet, allowing for one of three aircraft versions:
Fighter from the 1st Squadron, 302nd Naval Air Group.
Fighter from the 652nd Fighter Group, stationed on the aircraft carrier Junyo.
Fighter from the Rabaul base fighter group.
Pilot miniature and 4 aircrew miniatures.
Assembly guide.
Assembly and Painting Process
Model assembly involves cutting the parts from the sprues, fitting them, and gluing them together according to the included instruction manual. After assembly, the model should be painted with model paints according to the suggested painting scheme, also found in the instruction manual. It's worth noting that some parts require painting before assembly. Then, apply the included decals according to the markings or graphics.
Recommended Tamiya Paint Colors
Below are the paints recommended by the manufacturer for the best results:
Tamiya XF-16 (cockpit, engine, and landing gear components)
Tamiya XF-7 + XF-56 (exhaust; 1:7 ratio)
Tamiya XF-64 (propeller, gunsight)
For the Pilots:
Tamiya XF-64 (uniform, sword hilt)
Tamiya XF-49 + XF-57 (vest; 2:1 ratio)
Tamiya XF-10 (boots, pilot's cap, gloves)
Tamiya XF-2 (scarf)
Tamiya XF-15 (skin)
Tamiya XF-26 (straps)
Tamiya X-16 + X-21 (parachute)
Tamiya X-1 (sword sheath)
Essential Tools and Materials
This kit DOES NOT include paints or glue. To complete the model, you will need basic modeling tools and materials, such as:
Side cutters or sprue cutters for plastic parts.
Hobby knife.
Files or sandpaper.
Plastic cement.
Paintbrushes or airbrush.
Model paints.
If you have any questions regarding the selection of accessories or paint colors for this model, please contact us. We are happy to provide professional assistance.
