Hasegawa WL358 Japanese Navy Light Cruiser Tatsuta (1/700)

Hasegawa WL358 Japanese Navy Light Cruiser Tatsuta (1/700) is an excellent plastic model kit representing the Japanese Navy light cruiser from World War II. The 1:700 scale allows for a realistic reproduction of the IJN Tatsuta, belonging to the Tenryū class—one of the most interesting temporary and light designs of the Japanese fleet.

Historical data of the Tatsuta ship

• Scale: 1/700
• Material: high-quality plastic
• Country of use: Japan
• Period in service: World War II (in service from 1919 to 1944)
• Type: Light Cruiser (Tenryū class)

Tatsuta, along with her sister ship Tenryū, was an important element of the Japanese naval strategy both before and during World War II. The ship was launched in 1918 and officially commissioned in 1919. It was one of the first fast light cruisers of its era, characterized by high maneuverability and speed, serving both as an escort and a reconnaissance unit. Tatsuta actively participated in many offensive and convoy operations in the South China Sea, the Pacific Ocean, and around the Solomon Islands, until she was sunk by the American submarine USS Sand Lance in March 1944.

Hasegawa WL358 set details

• Product category: Plastic model kit
• Does not include glue or paints (to be purchased separately)
• Highly accurate reproduction of deck details, superstructure, gun turrets, and onboard equipment
• The sprues allow assembly of all distinctive Tatsuta silhouette elements, including onboard equipment, boats, and armament
• Set intended for intermediate modelers (difficulty level 3/5)
• An ideal choice for collectors and enthusiasts of the Japanese Navy, historic naval battles, and WWII battle dioramas

Why choose this model?

Hasegawa WL358 is a set recommended for modelers seeking a faithful miniature reproduction of historical Japanese warships. The high quality of workmanship, the detailed sprues, and precise details make it an excellent base for further conversions, upgrades, or weathering. The model will be appreciated by both collectors and modelers building extensive naval dioramas. The sprues are supplied in the classic “waterline” version – that is, only the above-water section, which facilitates display on naval bases, for example.

We highly recommend the Hasegawa WL358 Japanese Navy Light Cruiser Tatsuta to all enthusiasts of the Japanese fleet and naval modeling. The product meets requirements from a historical, modeling, and collecting perspective.