Type 97 Chi-Ha - Early Production, 4th TC, 34th TR - North China 1945

The Type 97, Japan's most numerous WWII medium tank, is showcased here. Armed with a 57mm main gun and two Type 97 machine guns, it served as an enlarged Type 95 for infantry support. With modest armor, 2,123 were produced between 1938 and 1943, most carrying the low-velocity 57mm gun, and could reach 38km/h. This model represents a 4th Tank Company, 34th Tank Regiment vehicle, part of the 1st Independent Tank Brigade formed in 1944. The 34th Tank Regiment operated solely in China until the war's end. The model's standout feature is its striking three-color camouflage scheme with bright yellow bands. Hull markings suggest public sponsorship, with characters translating to 'patriotic'. This appealing item lets collectors add another Japanese WWII tank to their collection.