Imperial Japanese Army Tank Destroyer Type 2 HO-I

Plastic model kit of an Imperial Japanese Army Type 2 Ho-I tank destroyer/support tank

• Scale: 1:35
• Dimensions (LxW, assembled): 160 x 67 mm
• Approx. 193 parts
• Segmented tracks
• Cannon features a detailed replica of the breech block
• 1 marking option
• 1 figure included
• Unassembled, unpainted
• Paint and glue not included

The Type 2 Ho-I was a medium support tank of the Imperial Japanese Army, based on the chassis of the Type 1 Chi-He. It was designed to provide infantry support with powerful high-explosive weaponry and to effectively engage fortified positions, bunkers, and lightly armored vehicles. Development began in 1941 in response to experiences from the war in China and early Pacific campaigns, which revealed that existing tank guns were only marginally suitable for these tasks.

The Type 2 Ho-I adopted the chassis, engine, and running gear of the Chi-He almost unchanged. Weighing approximately 16 tons, the tank was powered by an air-cooled Mitsubishi V12 diesel engine producing around 240 hp, enabling a top speed of approximately 40 km/h. Its armor largely matched that of the Chi-He, offering better protection than older Japanese tanks, though it remained relatively light by international standards.

The Ho-I's most distinctive feature was its new turret, equipped with the short-barreled 75mm Type 99 gun. Originally derived from a mountain gun, this weapon primarily fired high-explosive shells that were highly effective against field fortifications and infantry positions. Shaped-charge rounds were also available, allowing the tank to engage enemy armor at close range. The main armament was supplemented by a 7.7 mm machine gun.

Although the Type 2 Ho-I possessed promising characteristics, technical modifications and the priority given to other armament programs delayed its production. Only a few production vehicles were completed towards the end of the war. Most remained on the Japanese home islands in preparation for an anticipated Allied invasion and thus did not see significant combat action.

For modelers, the Type 2 Ho-I ranks among the most distinctive Japanese armored vehicles of World War II. Particularly striking features include the large turret housing the short 75 mm gun and the vehicle's overall squat silhouette. The combination of the modern Chi-He chassis and the short-barreled support armament gives the vehicle a unique appearance. Coupled with the Imperial Japanese Army's characteristic three-color camouflage scheme, the Ho-I offers a rare and historically interesting subject for vehicle models and dioramas.