Tamiya 1/350 Heavy Cruiser Chikuma

The Tamiya 1/350 Heavy Cruiser Chikuma (HC-78027) is a highly detailed plastic assembly kit depicting the Imperial Japanese Navy cruiser before refit with additional AA guns, radar, and an air defence command centre. Designed for display as either a full hull or waterline model, it combines precision moulding with photo-etched and metal detail parts to deliver an impressive centrepiece for ship modellers and WWII naval enthusiasts.

Historical Background

Chikuma was the last heavy cruiser constructed by the Imperial Japanese Navy and was completed in May 1939 as the second ship of the Tone-class. All four twin 20.3 cm gun turrets were positioned forward, leaving the stern clear for the operation of up to six floatplanes. The design provided a top speed of 35 knots and long range, and Chikuma served alongside her sister ship Tone with the Carrier Mobile Fleet.

During the Pearl Harbor attack in December 1941, Chikuma’s floatplanes conducted pre-attack reconnaissance over Pearl Harbor, contributing to the operation’s success. She also saw action at Midway and in the Solomon Islands campaign. In October 1944 at the Battle of Leyte Gulf, Chikuma served as Admiral Kurita’s flagship and helped in the sinking of USS Gambier Bay before being damaged by torpedoes and scuttled off Samar Island.

Features

• 1/350 scale plastic assembly kit of IJN Chikuma in her pre-refit configuration.
• Choice of full hull on a display stand or waterline presentation.
• Hull and deck join securely via small screws for a robust build.
• Highly detailed main gun turrets with barrels that articulate in two angles.
• Includes V-shaped ventilator ducts and finely rendered funnels.
• Durable ABS plastic mast components.
• Photo-etched parts provided, including aircraft trolleys, catapult rails, and mast braces.
• Metal anchor chains and propeller shafts for added realism.
• Floatplanes included with display stands.

Painting & Reference

The kit includes a Reference Booklet offering background information on Chikuma, plus a full colour painting guide to support accurate finishing.