Ki-21-Ia RTAF
Thailand’s Heavy Bomber
In the 1930s, the Royal Thai Air Force – RTAF – relied primarily on aircraft manufactured in the United States and Great Britain. The situation changed with the beginning of the Second World War. After the defeat of France in Europe, Thailand decided to seize the moment and regain its territories in French Indochina.
There was made an order for the delivery of new American-made aircraft. However, the US decided that strengthening the Thai Air Force could change the situation in the region in an undesirable direction for them, and refused to supply the aircraft.
Thailand referred to Japan, which soon delivered several dozen bombers for the RTAF. Among them were nine Ki-21-Ia aircrafts produced by the Nakajima company, in the spring of 1941, they were included in the composition of Kong Bin Koi 6 (6th Aviation Wing).
These aircraft did not have time to take part in combat operations against France but were used in Burma against units of the Chinese National Army in the spring of 1942.
After the Chinese forces retreated to their territory, the Thai Ki-21-Ia were deployed for a while to perform patrol and reconnaissance missions. Later they served as training and transport aircraft.
The Mitsubishi Ki-21-Ia , operated by the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF), was a significant heavy bomber during World War II.
This aircraft played a vital role in Thailand's air operations and contributed to the country's military efforts during the conflict.
The Ki-21-Ia, nicknamed "Sally" by the Allies, was a twin-engine bomber designed and manufactured by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.
It featured a robust construction and a sleek aerodynamic design that allowed it to achieve high speeds and carry a substantial payload.
Equipped with a crew of five, including the pilot, co-pilot/navigator, bombardier, radio operator, and gunner, the Ki-21-Ia possessed both offensive and defensive capabilities.
It was armed with a combination of machine guns and cannons located in various positions throughout the aircraft, providing protection against enemy fighters and ground-based threats.
As a heavy bomber, the Ki-21-Ia had the capacity to carry a significant bomb load.
This allowed it to undertake strategic bombing missions, target infrastructure, disrupt enemy supply lines, and provide support to ground forces during military campaigns.
The aircraft's range and endurance made it an effective asset in Thailand's air force.
The RTAF operated the Ki-21-Ia in various theaters, including Southeast Asia, where it was involved in combat operations against opposing forces.
The aircraft demonstrated its versatility and reliability by conducting both day and night bombing missions, adapting to different operational requirements.
Thailand's utilization of the Ki-21-Ia showcased its commitment to maintaining a capable air force and its contribution to the broader war effort.
The aircraft's performance played a role in shaping the country's military strategy and support of Allied forces during World War II.
The Mitsubishi Ki-21-Ia RTAF, Thailand's heavy bomber, represented an important asset in the Royal Thai Air Force's fleet.
It provided the country with a formidable aerial platform capable of delivering precision strikes and contributing to the overall Allied effort in the region.
Key Specifications
- Scale: 1/72
Full Specifications
| SKU | ICM72206 |
| Manufacturer | ICM |
| EAN | 4823044409365 |
| Short Description | ICM 1/72 Mitsubishi Ki-21-Ia RTAF, Thailand's Heavy Bomber # 72206 |
| Plastic Kits | Air |
(ICM72206)
| SKU | ICM72206 |
| Barcode # | 4823044409365 |
| Brand | ICM |
