The Little World

The Mitsubishi Type 100 – the Dinah – was delivered to the Japanese Army Air Force in several versions – bomber, reconnaissance plane, trainer, etc. and there were several configurations of nose and canopy. The thin nose and multi-step greenhouse is characteristic of the training aircraft – probably to allow and instructor to oversee the pilot in the front seat while the observer in the back was along for additional training in navigation.

The box art shows this clearly as a third figure is perched up in the top bubble.

To accomodate a number of different models from a common kit, the model airplane company, L&S included several extra parts for the different versions. But the surprising thing is that they did not make a provision for the instructor inside the actual cockpit. The central compartment of the cockpit contains a petrol tank and a walkway and nothing else. Presumably honourable sensei stood there holding on for dear life while the pupil flew from the front seat and the observer was being ill into a bag in the back one.

Never mind – it is unusual enough anyway. I am very pleased with the way the paint has come out and the sleekness of the ship is well shown in the final product. I did make a slight error by getting the port top insignia twisted about 25º around but no-one has noticed yet. I’ll be quiet about it.

The whole colour thing hearkens back to the dear old model building days of the 1950’s when I encountered the Aurora Famous Fighters 1:48 version of the Mitsubishi A6M – the Zero or Zeke fighter. It was moulded in a bright yellow plastic as well, and convinced me that all Japanese aircraft were painted yellow…

I have since learned my lesson but I’m still happy to have the bright Dinah.