This is a plastic model kit, which comes unassembled and unpainted. So glue, model paints and other basic modelling tools are additionally required.
The IJN Taiyo was a Japanese escort aircraft carrier that saw action during World War II. Taiyo was built in 1941 and was originally intended as a transport ship, but was later adapted to the role of an escort aircraft carrier.
During the war, Taiyo participated in numerous operations in the Pacific, including the Battle of Guadalcanal and the Battle of the Solomon Islands. In May 1943, Taiyo was severely damaged during an attack by the American submarine USS Nautilus. Despite the damage, Taiyo was repaired and returned to service.
In April 1944, Taiyo participated in Operation I-Go, which was an attempt by the Japanese fleet to destroy the American invasion force in the Solomon Islands. During the operation, Taiyo was hit by a torpedo from an American aircraft, which caused an explosion on board and a fire that contributed to its sinking. Only about 150 crew members survived, out of the more than 1,000 who were on board at the time of the attack.
Taiyo was one of many Japanese aircraft carriers that were destroyed during the war. Her role as an escort carrier was important, but she lacked adequate weapons and armor, which made her an easy target for American air and sea attacks.