MSRP: 1050 Yen (about $10.00))
Web Site: www.modelart.jp

This volume of the Japanese modeling magazine follows the format I've seen in earlier issues. It features one prominent model and has lesser coverage of other kits from all areas of the hobby. High quality, color pictures abound, but with captions and text only in Japanese.

The following is a synopsis of the articles and photos in each category:

Aircraft:

• The featured aircraft is the Kawasaki Ki-45 Toryu (Nick). Models by Hasegawa (both 1/72 and 1/48), Nichimo (1/48), and Revell (1/72) are depicted. There is a model conversion for a Ki-45 into a Ki-46, but I wasn’t really sure since I couldn't read the text. One idea I got from this article was a very interesting template used to make the camouflage on one of the aircraft. The final model in this article is Pavla's Ki-102 Randy. Along with the pictures are color drawings of the cockpit, two pages of line profiles depicting the various modifications to the original airframe, and two pages of B&W photos of different camouflage schemes.
• The new HobbyBoss FJ-4B Fury is covered with photos of the model.

Ships:

• There are a series of color photos depicting the details of three Tamiya 1/700 Japanese light cruisers: Abukuma, Isuzu, and Nagara.
• New kit review of the Dragon USS Bon Homme Richard and the Civer-Hobby (?) USS Antietam both in 1/700 .

Armor:

• Kit review of the Tamiya JS-2 Stalin heavy tank in 1/35 scale with close-up photos of the model.

Automobiles:

• Photos of Revell's Audi A8 LeMans Quattro in 1/24 scale.
• Close-up, detail photos of an ABC Porsche 695GS Carrera in 1/43 scale.

As in other issues I've seen, the latter part of the book has small photos of numerous aircraft, armor, ship, and auto kits. There is also a section of decal sheet pictures, as well as pictures of model related books. You can get an idea of what's new and I like the fact that most have the kit packaging depicted. An interesting feature is a page of Japanese Army rank insignia that peal off and have sticky backs. One thing stands out – all the models are beautifully done. My thanks go to IPMS/USA and Model Art (www.modelart.jp) for the review sample.