Tamiya 31342 - 1/700 JAPANESE HEAVY CRUISER MIKUMA  [31342]

Exploring the Tamiya 1/700 Japanese Heavy Cruiser Mikuma

The Japanese Heavy Cruiser Mikuma holds a notable place in naval history as part of the Mogami Class. Originally completed in 1935, the Mikuma was later upgraded to a heavy cruiser with the replacement of its main guns. This ship participated in key operations during the early stages of the Pacific War, including the Malay landing operation and the Battle of Sunda Strait. Unfortunately, it met its fate after sustaining damage during the Battle of Midway.

Modeling the Legacy

Tamiya’s 1/700 scale model kit captures the essence of the Mikuma with precision. The kit replicates the elegant lines of the Mogami class while highlighting the unique features of the Mikuma, such as its distinct bridge design. Builders will appreciate the attention to detail, from the rotating main turrets to the sharply reproduced equipment like gun turrets and torpedo launchers.

Craftsmanship and Detail

The model's hull is ingeniously divided into two halves, allowing for an accurate representation of the ship's intricate details. Key structures, including the rear mast and main structure, are faithfully recreated, providing a rewarding assembly experience. The inclusion of polycaps ensures that the main turrets can rotate smoothly, adding a dynamic element to the completed model.