With the Type 97 Chi-Ha medium tanks undergoing up-armament and therefore a new turret, older Chi-Ha turrets were surplus to requirements. A use was found for them by marrying them to the hulls of the Type 95 Ha-Go light tank, giving birth to the Ke-Nu. Approximately 100 of this hybrid light tank were produced.
Although the Ke-Nu’s new 57mm gun gave it marginally better firepower than the Ha-Go, the larger turret added further weight and therefore more strain on the engine. This extra ton of weight dropped the maximum speed of the Ke-Nu down to 40 km/h. However, the Ke-Nu still suffered from the same weakness as it’s forebears – armour that was too thin to be effective against Allied anti-tank weaponry.
Pack contains 1 metal and resin tank and 1 metal crewman.
Note: Models supplied unassembled and unpainted
Dan Hewitson
Tom Mecredy
Craig Nixon