A highly detailed 1:72 scale diecast representation of the Mitsubishi A6M3 Zero-Sen associated with celebrated Japanese naval fighter pilot Hiroyoshi Nishizawa. Released as part of the Corgi Aviation Archive Collector Series, AA33102 depicts aircraft UI-105 of the Imperial Japanese Navy's 251st Kokutai during the Second World War.
Hiroyoshi Nishizawa became one of the most prominent Japanese fighter pilots of the Pacific War and was widely known as the “Devil of Rabaul”. Operating across the South Pacific, he flew numerous combat missions against Allied aircraft and became closely associated with the agile Mitsubishi Zero.
The 251st Kokutai operated from bases in the South Pacific and participated in intensive aerial operations around Rabaul, New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. Its pilots faced increasingly capable Allied fighters while attempting to protect Japanese bases, shipping and ground forces across a vast operational area.
Aircraft UI-105 is reproduced in a dark green upper-surface finish with contrasting lighter undersides and prominent red Hinomaru national markings. Areas of field-applied wear and mottled paintwork around the cockpit and fuselage give the aircraft a heavily operational appearance.
The Mitsubishi A6M3 was a development of the famous A6M Zero carrier fighter. Its lightweight construction, exceptional manoeuvrability and long operational range made the Zero one of the most formidable fighter aircraft encountered during the opening stages of the Pacific War.
As Allied aircraft and tactics improved, the Zero's limited armour protection and lack of self-sealing fuel tanks became increasingly serious disadvantages. Nevertheless, its agility, range and historical importance ensured that it remained one of the defining Japanese aircraft of the Second World War.
Limited to 6,700 pieces worldwide, this Corgi release features extensive diecast construction, simulated fabric-covered control surfaces, a detailed cockpit with pilot figure, visible radial engine detailing and a rotating propeller. Further features include removable landing gear, a centre-mounted fuel tank and the original Corgi Aviation Archive presentation stand.
Fact Sheet
Brand: Corgi
Series: Aviation Archive Collector Series
Model code: AA33102
Aircraft: Mitsubishi A6M3 Zero-Sen / Zeke
Tactical Markings: UI-105
Pilot: Hiroyoshi Nishizawa
Unit: Imperial Japanese Navy 251st Kokutai
Campaign / Event: Second World War Pacific operations
Operator / Country: Imperial Japanese Navy / Japan
Scale: 1:72
Limited Edition Size: 6,700 pieces worldwide
Material: Heavyweight diecast metal with quality sub-components
Special Features: Authentic UI-105 markings, operational dark green camouflage, prominent Hinomaru insignia, simulated fabric control surfaces, detailed cockpit with pilot figure, visible radial engine, rotating propeller, removable landing gear, centre-mounted fuel tank and original presentation display stand
Model Dimensions
Length: 5" or 12.7 cm
Width (Wingspan): 6" or 15.2 cm