Fujimi FJ-72371 1/72 Suisei Type 12 (D4Y2/D4Y2-S) propeller aircraft plastic kit  [FJ-72371]

Fujimi FJ-72371 1/72 Suisei Type 12 kit overview

This 1/72 injection-moulded plastic model recreates the Imperial Japanese Navy Suisei Type 12 (D4Y2/D4Y2-S) and sits within Fujimi's small-scale aircraft family as a detailed subject for display modelling.

The Suisei, designated D4Y by the Imperial Japanese Navy, operated as a carrier-capable dive bomber and reconnaissance platform in World War II. Early production used inline engines, while later D4Y2 examples adopted radial engines to simplify maintenance. Some airframes were converted for reconnaissance or fitted with floats under the D4Y2-S designation. The type saw active use across multiple Pacific operations through the mid to late war years.

Kit description and modelling notes

The moulding captures the general outline and principal external details at 1/72 scale. Assembly follows standard injection-mould kit procedures; expect trimming, fitting of small control surfaces, careful canopy masking, and seam finishing. Pay attention to wing and undercarriage alignment and consult reference photographs for correct rigging and externally carried stores where relevant.

Painting and markings

Marking choices for the D4Y2 and float-equipped D4Y2-S reflect different wartime liveries. Refer to period photos and established colour references to match national insignia and camouflage tones. Transparent parts such as canopies will benefit from careful masking to keep clear edges crisp during painting.

Display and detailing suggestions

For display, apply subtle panel-line washes and light exhaust staining to suggest operational wear. Modelers wanting greater fidelity can add photo-etched items, resin upgrades, or fine antenna wire, and perform meticulous seam sanding on fuselage and control surfaces to improve scale appearance.

A compact 1/72 representation of the Suisei Type 12 that rewards patient finishing and period-accurate detailing for collectors and display-focused modellers.