Preview: Takom's 35th scale AH-64D Apache Longbow Attack Helicopter J.G.S.D.F

You cannot say that Takom aren't exploring their options in this, the seventh kit of their popular AH-64 Apache range in 1/35th scale. This one looks like another treat - set to set your Japanese modeller's hearts racing, in the shape of a Japan Ground Self-Defense Force AH-64D. See what we learnt from the new art in our preview...

Preview: Takom's 35th scale AH-64D Apache Longbow Attack Helicopter J.G.S.D.F

AH-64D Apache Longbow Attack Helicopter J.G.S.D.F

From Takom

Kit No #2607

1/35th scale

Three marking choices included...

Designed with Snowman Model

Available in August

The AH-64D Apache Longbow Attack Helicopter J.G.S.D.F

The AH-64D Apache Longbow is equipped with a glass cockpit and advanced sensors, the most noticeable of which being the AN/APG-78 Longbow millimeter-wave fire-control radar (FCR) target acquisition system and the Radar Frequency Interferometer (RFI), housed in a dome located above the main rotor. The radome's raised position enables target detection while the helicopter is behind obstacles (e.g. terrain, trees or buildings). The AN/APG-78 is capable of simultaneously tracking up to 128 targets and engaging up to 16 at once; an attack can be initiated within 30 seconds. A radio modem integrated with the sensor suite allows data to be shared with ground units and other Apaches, allowing them to fire on targets detected by a single helicopter.

The Longbow is powered by a pair of uprated T700-GE-701C engines. The forward fuselage was expanded to accommodate new systems to improve survivability, navigation, and 'tactical internet' communications capabilities. In February 2003, the first Block II Apache was delivered to the U.S. Army, featuring digital communications upgrades. 

The Apache's of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force 

The Japanese Apache AH-64DJP variant is based on the AH-64D; it can be equipped with the AIM-92 Stinger air-to-air missiles for self-defence. Japan ordered 50 AH-64Ds, which were built under license by Fuji Heavy Industries, designated "AH-64DJP". 

The first helicopter was delivered to the JGSDF in early 2006. The order was halted after 13 aircraft were delivered due to cost. In 2017, it was announced that the targeting systems of the 13 aircraft would be upgraded.

The kit: Takom's 1/35th scale AH-64D Apache Longbow Attack Helicopter J.G.S.D.F

Takom's AH-64D longbow of the J.G.S.D.F comes with some vivid box art - we do know that this will turn some off, but other will absolutely love it!

We know from the boxart a few things:

-Like the others in this series, this kit is designed by Snowman and includes the Japanese centric extras for this type.

-There are three marking choices for this kit

-Photo-etch and plastic make up the main kit

- Unfortunately NO, the figure on the box isn't included 😪

That is all we have on this kit for now - keep tuned here for more info. You can see more about Takom's kits on their website or on their Facebook page