Fujimi 1/350 IJN Battleship Haruna (Dazzle Camouflage) [1/350-No13] Plastic Model Kit

Fujimi 1/350 IJN Battleship Haruna Special Edition (Dazzle Camouflage) Release Date: February 2024 Scale: 1/350 Product Code: Fujimi 600796 Features: Dazzle Camouflage Decals: Includes decals to replicate the unique dazzle camouflage applied to Haruna in July 1945. Operational Configurations: Allows modeling of Haruna's appearance during Operation Shoichi-go in October 1945 or the July 1945 camouflage scheme. Detailed Components: Decals provided for various parts, including the 1st and 2nd main guns, additional machine gun turrets, and the starboard high-angle turret. Aircraft Models: Comes with two types of carrier-based aircraft: the Type 0 (three-seater) surface reconnaissance aircraft and the Type 0 surface observation aircraft, one of each. Historical Background of IJN Haruna Haruna was the fourth and final vessel of the Kongo-class battlecruisers of the Imperial Japanese Navy, designed by British naval engineer George Thurston. Her keel was laid down in March 1912 at the Kawasaki Shipyards in Kobe, launched in December 1913, and commissioned in April 1915.

Specifications: Length: Approximately 222 meters Beam: 31 meters Displacement: Around 36,000 tons (full load) Speed: Up to 30–31 knots Armament (as built): 8 × 14-inch (356 mm) guns in four twin turrets; secondary armament included 14 × 6-inch (152 mm) guns Service History: World War I: Haruna saw limited action, primarily patrolling the Chinese coast. Interwar Period: Underwent extensive modernization between 1924 and 1934, enhancing armor, reconstructing the superstructure into a pagoda mast, and upgrading propulsion systems. World War II: Participated in the invasion of British territories in Indochina. Took part in the Indian Ocean raid (April 1942) and the Battle of Midway (June 1942). Engaged in the Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands (October 1942) and the Battle of Leyte Gulf (October 1944). In 1945, due to fuel shortages, Haruna remained inactive until she was severely damaged and eventually sunk by U.S. carrier-based aircraft at Kure Naval Base in July 1945. This special edition model by Fujimi offers enthusiasts an opportunity to recreate a historically significant vessel with intricate details and authentic camouflage patterns.