History

The Aichi B7A torpedo bomber was an attempt by the Japanese Navy to provide a state-of-the-art general purpose carrier-based bomber to replace the Nakajima B6N “Jill” torpedo bomber and the Yokosuka D4Y “Judy” dive bomber with a single type capable of both roles. It was planned to operate these aircraft from the IJN’s largest carriers, the Taiho and the Shinano. Powered by the new Nakajima Homare 1800 hp. radial engine, the first prototype was built and flown in 1942, but development problems, mainly concerning the engine, slowed the aircraft’s path to service introduction. By the time production started in 1945, an earthquake had destroyed the plant, and only a few were actually allocated to units.

Three parts are included in this set: the pitot tube and two angle of attack probes. The parts are packaged in a small zip-lock bag, stapled in a folded, heavy paper stock display hanger. The parts are also further sealed in a small envelope of clear plastic film taped to a heavy card stock stiffener inside the bag.

A small instruction sheet is also included that shows the installation.

Application

This pitot tube is designed for the Tamiya F-16. Installation is a simple matter of drilling out the opening in the kit nose part, applying a touch of super glue, inserting the pitot tube – and it is ready for paint. That simple, but what an improvement over the kit pitot tube! Same goes for the AOA probes mounted on either side of the nose, except here the probes fit within pre-formed openings in the sides of the nose. These particular parts are tiny!! Care will be required during installation to avoid loss.

• 32755 HE 219 Seatbelts, $20.00
• 32325 He 219 Undercarriage, $43.00
• 32757 He 219 Interior SA, $30.00

Eduard continues to produce their prolific, super-detailed PE sets for upgrading already good kits into great kits; thanks to Jan Zdiarsky at Eduard for providing IPMS/USA these three sets. Your support of our organization is more than appreciated…and thanks to Dick and Steve at IPMS/USA for passing these on to me to review!