I received confirmation from Hobby Link Japan last week that the new 1/48 scale Fine Molds Kawasaki Type 95 Ki-10 fighter which I'd pre-ordered is on the way!

The Ki-10-II (Allied code name "Perry") was the last Japanese biplane fighter. It was widely used by the Army Air Force and saw combat during the Japanese invasion of China and in clashes against Russian forces. Although retired from front-line service by the time the Pacific War broke out, the Ki-10 was brought back for patrol and reconnaissance duties over both the home islands and mainland China during the early days of the war, freeing up more modern types for combat service.

The Fine Molds kit is available in two forms; the standard Ki-10-II and a "Kato's Fighter Squadron" version. The kits are identical in terms of parts - the difference lies in the camouflage and markings. This is an all-new tool by Fine Molds and includes a seated pilot figure, plus a sprue of three 55-gallon drums, ladders, chocks, oil cans, two maintenance crew figures etc.

Both versions are available from HLJ for 2,800 Yen, ($24.18 or £12.85) each plus P&P.

To accompany the kits, Fine Molds have released an etched set of additional details - rigging, machine gun parts, seatbelts etc. This is also available from HLJ for 1,200 Yen ($10.36 or £5.51) plus P&P.

Information and copyright images from Hobby Link Japan.