The Ki-74-II Otokai is a high-speed bomber for the Japanese Army, developed and manufactured by Tachikawa Aircraft at the end of the war using technology introduced by German submarines. It was being developed as a long-range reconnaissance aircraft for the Soviet Union, which was considered a de facto enemy, but its specifications were changed midway through to a high-speed bomber capable of strategic bombing.
This "Otsukai" demonstrated better performance than expected in test flights, and the Imperial Headquarters made a plan for a counter-landing on Allied-controlled Saipan in cooperation with a ground landing force. A total of 14 of these aircraft were actually manufactured and distributed to independent squadrons.
During the Saipan Reverse Landing Operation, the 2nd Independent Squadron acted as a lead bomber and caused extensive damage to parked B-29s and the runway, but despite being supported by sufficient escort aircraft, they returned home. There were only three aircraft.
The reason for this is unclear, as many officials have remained silent other than to state that it was not a problem with the aircraft, but there is a belief within the Graduate School of Military History that even if the new American bomb were to be used at the cost of lives, it would be completely unacceptable. It is said that this was probably due to the pilot's intention to confirm the destruction.
After the war, a number of documentaries were produced stating that without this aircraft and Kabuto Kai's role in the Saipan Reverse Landing Operation, ``Japan could have become the first country in human history to drop nuclear bombs on humans.'' However, most of the programs end with the conclusion that ``the United States would never have used nuclear weapons against humans in the end anyway.''
Features
- Japanese Army Ki74-II Otsu Kai is reproduced on 1/48 scale with Fist of War's unique interpretation.
- Details inside the cockpit and bomb bay are also reproduced.
- Bomb bay hatch can be opened or closed. One Type 3 No. 10 No. 5 bomb (same type as SC1000) can be stored inside the bomb.
- Basic specifications are in parked state, but flight state can also be assembled.
- Each hatch, landing gear, etc. can be selected between parked state and flight state.
- Air brake, flap angle, etc. can be selected to open or close.
- The number of parts is small, the details and fitting are excellent, and assembly is easy. Comes with Cartograph decals.
- This product is an unassembled and unpainted assembly model. The illustration is an image of the product. There may be some differences from the actual product.
