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Nakajima A6M2-N Rufe

history

The Nakajima A6M2-N (Navy Type 2 Interceptor/Fighter-Bomber) was a single engine, single-crew seaplane based on the Mitsubishi A6M Zero Model 11, Allied reporting name Rufe. In 1941, the Japanese Navy ordered the Nakajima Aircraft Company to build a fighter/seaplane by modifying the Type 0 already in production. The main changes to the Type 0 were the elimination of the landing gear system, adding a large center line float and two small outrigger floats to the wings. Extra fuel was carried in the main float.

The A6M2-N was deployed in 1942, and referred to as the "Suisen 2" ("Hydro fighter type 2"). The function of the aircraft was to support amphibious operations and defend remote bases that had no runways. A6M2-N seaplanes were also effective in harassing American PT boats at night. They were very difficult to detect, even with primitive radar. The large float and wing pontoons of the A6M2-N degraded its performance by about 20%, enough so that the aircraft was not usually a match for even the first generation of Allied fighters. A total of 327 were built, including the original prototype.

Construction

The model here presented depicts an A6M2-N of the Toko Flying Group, Kiska Island, Aleutian Islands, in the summer of 1942.

This was an easy and fun build, totally out of the box. The parts fit was great so there was very little seam filling and sanding. The kit went together easily, just following the well illustrated instruction guide.

Painting

Painting the model was also quite easy. The top and bottom of the fuselage were airbrushed with MM Light Ghost Gray. The engine cowling and the Dolly were painted with MM Flat Black.

Decals

Once the paint dried and cured I hand brush two coats of Future on the model and let in dry for 3 days in preparation for decals. The kit provides decals for three different aircraft. I chose to use the decals for the Toko Flying Group, Kiska Island, Aleutian Islands, in the summer of 1942.

Decalling the model was a breeze. Not many decals and they went on the model with ease. Once decalling was complete I cleaned up the model with a damp cloth, then applied a light coat of Future over the model. To finish off the model, I airbrushed it with a coat of MM Semi Gloss Lacquer Finish.

conclusion

This model was a change of pace for me as I usually build in the 1/48 scale. The kit was a joy to build. The detail is good, the parts fit was good, and the decals were excellent. Any level of modeler can build this kit with success—its a good kit for a novice.

By the way, this kit is a combo kit. It comes with two complete A6M2-N Seaplanes in one box. So, I shall build another A6M2-N Seaplane in the near future.