OSPREY: Aircraft of the Aces 85: Ki-43 'Oscar' Aces of World War 2

OSPREY: Aircraft of the Aces 85: Ki-43 'Oscar' Aces of World War 2

Publisher: Osprey Publishing

Publication Date: 2009

Binding: Paperback

Illustrator: Laurier, Jim

Condition: NEW

About this title

Synopsis:Dubbed the 'Oscar' by the Allies, the Ki-43 Hayabusa was the most prolific Japanese fighter of World War II. Produced in great numbers, it initially proved superior to most US and British fighter types, due to its excellent maneuverability. The light weight and large wing area gave it a small turning radius and a high rate-of-climb which was ideal for pilots in close combat fighting. However, the Ki-43's swiftness and agility came at a price, with the low-wing design meaning that firepower and safety had to be sacrificed. With only two machine guns, a Ki-43 pilot would have to perform a dangerous balancing act between achieving a high rate of kills and their own survival. Surprisingly, more Japanese pilots achieved Ace status flying the Hayabusa than any other plane and despite being steadily outclassed by new fighters, the Ki-43 remained in frontline JAAF service until the war's end. This book expertly charts the experiences of the pilots and discusses the early stages of the war in South-East Asia, China, Burma and New Guinea. Accompanied by detailed appendices and specially commissioned artwork, this is the first volume in English to focus exclusively on the exploits of the Ki-43.*DISCLAIMER NOTES:1) PHOTOS: PLEASE ENSURE THAT YOU INSPECT ALL PICTURES.WE MAY INCLUDE STOCK IMAGES FOR BETTER REPRESENTATION.WE WILL ALWAYS INCLUDE PICTURES OF THE ITEM THAT YOU WILL RECEIVE WHEN POSSIBLE. IF WE HAVE MULTIPLES OF THE SAME ITEM THE PICTURES WILL BE STOCK PHOTOS.NOTE: Some photos used are the property of Board Game Geek.2) CONDITION: NEWDue to age and storage, the package may have some shelf wear, dings, and dents. Any significant damage or defects will be noted below.3) PRICE REFLECTS THE CONDITION, RARITY, AND COLLECTABILITY.