The Type 97 Chi-Ha tank, first deployed in 1937, was the mainstay of Japan’s medium tank forces for most of World War II. The initial model mounted the same low velocity 57mm gun utilised in the older Type 89.

The severe limitations of this gun became apparent in action against the Soviets at Nomonhan in 1939, and as a result the Japanese developed a new 47mm gun to provide the punch necessary to penetrate modern armour. However, given the limitations of Japanese industry, this upgraded version of the Type 97 – called the Shinhoto Chi-Ha, was not deployed until 1942.

The Japanese had not expected the Allies to deploy modern medium armour to the Pacific, and the fact that their tank force was effectively obsolete was not appreciated until it was too late. Overall the Japanese produced roughly 2,000 Chi-Ha tanks, with a little less than half mounting the improved 47mm gun.

THIS PRODUCT CONTAINS:

• 3x resin and metal Type 97 Chi-Ha (47mm), or Type 97 Chi-Ha (57mm) Tanks

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These miniatures are supplied unassembled and unpainted