1:3000 Shou Ichi Go Operation Nishimira Fleet Set

Nishimura's force from Operation Sho-1 in 1:3000 scale from Fujimi

This set of plastic models from the Japanese manufacturer Fujimi in the miniature 1:3000 scale lets you put a whole battle force on a single shelf — the formation of Vice Admiral Nishimura, which set out in October 1944 as part of Operation Sho-1 for the Battle of Leyte Gulf. The miniature ships take up a minimum of space and come out beautifully as a group side by side, exactly as they sailed in their wartime formation.

The real subject

Operation Sho-1 was the last major action of the Japanese wartime fleet. As part of the Battle of Leyte Gulf, the largest naval battle of the Second World War, the southern force of Vice Admiral Nishimura was to push through Surigao Strait to the American landing area. The force, made up of battleships, a cruiser and escorting destroyers, was practically destroyed in the night Battle of Surigao Strait by the fire of American battleships and cruisers and by torpedo attacks — it was one of the last duels between battleships in history.

Building and painting tips

The miniature scale calls for fine work — separate the parts with a sharp knife and bond them with a minimal amount of glue, ideally applied with the tip of a toothpick. Spray the hulls in a base gray and set the decks apart with a fine-tipped brush. A simple dark wash and a matte varnish will lift the overall impression. We recommend placing the group of ships on a shared base or on a blue board representing the water.

Who the model is for

• those interested in the naval history of the Second World War in the Pacific
• collectors who want a whole fleet in a minimum of space
• modelers with a liking for miniature scales and fine work
• builders of dioramas of naval formations

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.