For those who think, ”Wait, isn’t the JMSDF US-2 painted in blue and white?”, this JMSDF Search and Rescue Amphibian US-2 Prototype Aircraft Series No.2 is definitely something to pay attention to. What this product recreates is the US-2 during its prototype era, which has a distinct look compared to the well-known current version. At rollout, Prototype No. 1 featured a red-based color scheme, while Prototype No. 2 was painted primarily in blue, both possessing vivid appearances designed with high visibility in mind. With this kit, you can choose to assemble either the red Prototype No. 1 or the blue Prototype No. 2. The fun unique to plastic models starts even before assembly, making you debate whether to go with the impact of red or the freshness of blue. The completed model measures approximately 23 cm in overall length, a great size for display while enjoying the grand airframe shape characteristic of the US-2.

If you are going to build a model, learning about the actual aircraft will add even more joy to admiring the finished piece. Development of the US-2 began in 1996 as the successor to the domestically produced US-1A search and rescue amphibian. While inheriting the characteristics of the US-1A in its basic airframe design, various advancements were incorporated inside. Featuring increased engine output, a pressurized cabin, a computer-controlled fly-by-wire system, and infrared night-vision equipment, it was officially certified for unit use in 2007. In other words, while its exterior allows you to feel the connection to its predecessor, its interior is an aircraft that significantly evolved through new technology. Having a 3D model in your hands that symbolizes such a development process is a unique appeal of this kit.

What cannot be omitted when discussing the US-2 is the exceptional water takeoff and landing capability unique to search and rescue amphibians. Just the idea of an aircraft landing on the sea is impressive enough, but the US-2 excels in short takeoff and landing performance, and in combination with its unique wave-suppression system, it is capable of taking off and landing on sea surfaces with wave heights up to 3 meters. Flying through the sky as an aircraft, yet descending to the sea surface to perform rescue operations when needed. Looking at the model after learning about its specialized role, you will naturally find yourself intrigued by its distinctive airframe shape. Beyond simply recreating a cool aircraft, wanting to research the structure and missions of the actual machine to understand why it looks the way it does is a deep and fascinating charm of aircraft modeling.

This kit offers choices not only in coloring, but also in the state of the airframe. The main landing gear can be assembled in either in-flight or landing configurations, and the flaps can also be customized according to your preference between level flight specifications and takeoff/landing specifications. It accommodates both those who want to recreate the US-2 flying in the sky and those who want to enjoy its appearance resting its wings on the ground. Furthermore, a display stand is included, so finishing it in flight mode lets you enjoy a dynamic display characteristic of aircraft. The process of selecting parts while imagining the final look in your head is a true pleasure of plastic models that cannot be experienced simply by displaying a pre-assembled figure.

The decals, which dictate the final finish, include both TRDI specifications and JMSDF specifications. With Prototype No. 1 and Prototype No. 2, main landing gear states, flap specifications, and decals, it is wonderful to be able to envision multiple completed looks with just a single kit. Once you start thinking about which US-2 you would build, your construction plans expand even before assembly starts. This product allows you to enjoy vivid prototype colors that differ from the current US-2 while connecting with the history of search and rescue amphibians developed in Japan. It is an aircraft that not only aircraft model enthusiasts, but also those interested in JMSDF equipment and domestic aircraft, will want to build with great care.