Hasegawa 49216 1/700 IJN Aircraft Carrier Zuiho

Model Ship Kit

this kit represents the light carrier Zuihō, a vessel born from Japan’s innovative pre-war naval planning that saw submarine tenders converted into fast, capable carriers under the constraints of naval treaties. Commissioned in 1940, Zuihō participated in major fleet operations across the Pacific, including the pivotal Battle of the Philippine Sea and her final stand during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, where she served as part of Vice Admiral Ozawa’s decoy carrier force—sacrificing herself to draw off American naval power in one of the largest naval engagements in history. Hasegawa captures the distinctive flush flight deck and compact hull form with sharp molding and well-proportioned detail, offering an excellent foundation for careful finishing and subtle weathering.