FACTOIDS & TRIVIA

In 1944, Kawasaki updated the Ki-61 Hein (allied code name "Tony") with better armor plating and, of course, a more powerful engine. The new version, dubbed Ki-61-II, was meant to be a better interceptor against allied bombers. In reality it wasn't any better than the first version in part due to reliability issues with the new engine. To be fair, when the engine worked properly, the Ki-61-II was a decent interceptor with a fast climb rate and formidable gun complement. Nevertheless, it was still a bit of a dud, Kawasaki only produced 404 Ki-61-II aircraft in 1944-45.  Here's a short video clip of me flying a Ki-61 against some Grumman F6F Hellcats in Combat Flight Simulator. Fun!

KAWASAKI Ki-61-II Hien "Tony"

 

 

 Class: Fighter

 Crew: 1

 Engine: Kawasaki Ha-140 V-12 (1,500 hp)

 Max Speed: 379 mph at 16,000 ft

 Climb Rate:  2,990 ft/min

 Service Ceiling: 36,100 ft

 Range: 360 miles

 Armament:  4 x 20 mm cannon

                        2 x 550 lb bombs

                   

 

  Model Scale:  1:87



















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