Type 3 Ho-Ni I Tank destroyer (Japanese)

Description

The Type 1 Ho-Ni tank destroyer series was developed by the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II to counter the threat posed by Allied tanks, particularly the American M4 Sherman. The series included three main variants: the Ho-Ni I, Ho-Ni II, and Ho-Ni III.

The Type 1 Ho-Ni I was the first self-propelled gun design of this type. It was based on the chassis of the Type 97 Chi-Ha medium tank and featured a Type 90 75 mm field gun mounted in an open casemate with frontal and side armour only. The Ho-Ni I was designed to operate as self-propelled artillery and tank destroyer, with a range of up to 12,000 meters. However, its open structure made it vulnerable in close combat. Only 26 units were produced, and they saw limited combat action, primarily during the Battle of Luzon in 1945.

The Type 1 Ho-Ni II was an improvement over the Ho-Ni I, featuring a Type 91 105 mm howitzer. This variant had a slightly altered superstructure with repositioned observation visors and improved stability. The Ho-Ni II was designed for close infantry support and indirect fire. Production began in 1943, with 54 units built. The Ho-Ni II saw service in Burma and the Philippines, providing artillery support for Japanese forces.

The Type 3 Ho-Ni III was the final and most advanced variant in the series. It featured a fully enclosed and armoured casemate, providing better protection for the crew. The Ho-Ni III was armed with a Type 3 75 mm tank gun, which was based on the Type 90 field gun. This variant was designed to replace the earlier models and provide improved fire support. Production began in 1944, but only 31 units were completed due to material shortages and bombing. The Ho-Ni III was primarily stationed in the Japanese home islands and did not see combat

• Model: Type 3 Ho-Ni I tank destroyer
• Country/Army: Japanese
• Dimension (mm) (WxLxH):
• Material: UV Cured resin
• Original Designer: TigerAce1945
• These models are designed for modellers and collectors. They are not toys and are not suitable for children.
• Model supplied unassembled and unpainted. Additional finishing may be required during assembly.
• Finished colour of the product may vary from images shown.
• Photos and dimensions are at 28mm unless noted otherwise.
• All dimensions are complete with weapons unless otherwise stated.
• Other scales and dimensions may be available upon request.
• Models supplied at scales smaller than 20mm may be an alternative design more suitable for small scale prints. These are designed by Bergman or TigerAce1945.