Fine Molds FM27 IJA Main Battle Tank Type 97 Chi-Ha with Additional Armor 1/35 is an advanced plastic model kit depicting one of the most important Japanese medium tanks of World War II. The 1/35 scale allows you to recreate with extraordinary detail the reinforced version of the Type 97 Chi-Ha tank, which formed the backbone of the Imperial Japanese Army’s armored forces from 1938 until the late 1940s.

The Type 97 Chi-Ha tank was developed in response to the growing threat from Soviet tanks in East Asia. It was equipped with a 57 mm gun for infantry support and two heavy 7.7 mm machine guns. Its original powerplant was an air-cooled diesel engine. However, the initial versions proved vulnerable to anti-tank fire, which led to the later addition of extra armor to the front of the hull and turret—the very variant represented by this model.

• Scale: 1/35 – ideal for advanced collectors and diorama enthusiasts
• Country of use: Japan, Imperial Army
• Historic period: World War II (1938–1945)
• Service: including Manchuria (now northeastern China) and the Philippines—in the 23rd, 24th, and 7th Tank Regiments
• Material: high-quality plastic, with photo-etched parts (exhaust pipe guard with fine detail), bonus clear parts (crate container)
• Add-ons: plastic tracks for self-assembly (multi-part, realistic), accurately reproduced gun breech locks, instructions illustrated with detailed photographs
• Number of parts: 258, model length: 160 mm, width: 67 mm

The Fine Molds FM27 model is recommended for intermediate and advanced modelers—difficulty level 4/5. Assembly requires precision, especially with the photo-etched details and self-assembled tracks. It’s an excellent addition to any Japanese vehicle collection or as a component of a realistic World War II Asian front diorama.

Thanks to the high level of detail—from the distinctive additional armor to the realistic running gear and finely recreated weapon details—the Fine Molds FM27 kit delivers a highly satisfying result and allows you to immerse yourself in the history of Japanese armored vehicles. This is the choice for military enthusiasts who value top quality and historical accuracy.