Hasegawa 450 1/72 Kyushu J7W1 18-shi Fighter 'Shinden'

Model Aircraft Kit

The Kyushu J7W1 “Shinden” stands out as one of the most daring and innovative Japanese fighter designs of World War II, conceived as a high-speed interceptor to counter the looming threat of B-29 raids over the home islands. With its canard layout, pusher propeller, and sleek fuselage, the Shinden was radically different from conventional fighters, emphasizing speed, climb performance, and heavy armament of four 30mm cannons. Although only a handful of prototypes were built before the war ended, the design remains a fascinating example of late-war aeronautical ingenuity. Hasegawa’s 1/72 scale kit captures the Shinden’s unique configuration with precise panel lines and accurate proportions.