IJN Carrier Fighter Mitsubishi A5M2b "Claude"

Plastic model kit for a Mitsubishi A5M2b "Claude" fighter aircraft
The first plastic model kit of the Type 96 carrier-based fighter featuring an enclosed cockpit canopy.

• Scale: 1:48
• Dimensions (assembled): Length 160 mm / Wingspan 230 mm / Height 63 mm
• 72 parts
• Flaps on the underside of the wings can be assembled in either the extended or retracted position
• Cockpit canopy can be displayed open or closed
• 2 marking options
• Unassembled, unpainted
• Paint and glue not included

The Mitsubishi A5M2b "Claude"—officially designated the Type 96 Carrier-Based Fighter—was a Japanese Navy carrier-based fighter and is considered the direct predecessor to the later Mitsubishi A6M Zero. Upon entering service in 1937, it was among the most modern fighter aircraft of its time and one of the first operational, all-metal, cantilever-wing monoplanes designed for use on aircraft carriers. The Type 96 is credited with propelling Japan—which had previously lagged behind Western nations in fighter design—to the forefront of global fighter aircraft manufacturing in a single developmental leap. Its chief designer, Jiro Horikoshi, later described the A5M as a masterpiece; in retrospect, he was even more satisfied with it than with its famous successor, the Mitsubishi A6M Zero.

The A5M2b was powered by an air-cooled Nakajima Kotobuki 3 radial engine producing approximately 640 hp, enabling a top speed of around 435 km/h. Its armament consisted of two 7.7 mm machine guns; additionally, light bombs could be carried for attack missions. Compared to earlier versions of the A5M, the A5M2b featured a more powerful engine, an aerodynamically improved NACA engine cowling, and a three-blade propeller. Its most distinctive feature, however, was the enclosed cockpit, designed to offer the pilot better protection and reduced drag. In practice, this innovation proved unpopular; the canopy restricted visibility, and the interior became stiflingly hot, particularly given the climatic conditions in China. Consequently, many pilots flew with the canopy open or even removed entirely, leading to a return to open cockpits in later variants.

The A5M2b saw significant service during the Second Sino-Japanese War, initially securing clear air superiority for the Japanese Navy. With the introduction of the more modern Mitsubishi A6M Zero, it was gradually phased out of frontline operations and subsequently relegated primarily to training and secondary roles. For scale modelers, the A5M2b holds particular appeal thanks to its elegant lines, distinctive landing gear fairings, three-blade propeller, and silver pre-war livery featuring colorful unit markings.