Print Scale 72-427 Decal A6M Zero-Sen Top Pilots Part 2 Scale 1:72 for Aircraft Plastic model kit

Print Scale 72-427 waterslide decals are designed for 1/72 scale plastic model kits of the Mitsubishi A6M Zero (Zero-sen). This “A6M Zero-sen top pilots Part 2” sheet provides historically referenced aircraft codes and identifiers for early-war and mid-1942 Pacific theatre subjects, with multiple options tied to specific kokutai units and operating locations.

The A6M Zero was a carrier-capable fighter used widely across the Pacific. Its tail codes and unit markings changed between deployments and bases, making it a useful subject for modelers who want a clear unit/location match while staying within a consistent A6M2/A6M3 airframe family.

For modelers, this set supports builds where the goal is a documented code-and-unit finish with period-appropriate presentation. The decals are listed as universal for 1/72 Zero kits; because options include multiple code styles and small elements, careful positioning on a gloss surface is recommended, especially around the cowling, fin, and rudder areas.

• Aircraft: Mitsubishi A6M Zero (Zero-sen)
• Variant / Family: A6M2 Model 21 and A6M3 Model 32
• Scale: 1/72 (also written as 1:72)
• Product type: Waterslide decals
• Type of equipment: for Aircraft plastic model kit
• Recommended kit: for Any / Universal
• Service / Subject country: Japan (Imperial Japanese Navy)
• Manufacturer: Print Scale
• Country of manufacture: Ukraine
• Material: Paper
• SKU: Print Scale 72-427

Included aircraft marking options

• A6M2 Model 21, code “S-171” with Houkoku-437 inscription, Chitose Kokutai (fighter hikotai), Wake Island, April 1942; attribution note includes FPO3c Hideo Watanabe.
• A6M2 Model 21, code “X-182”, 3rd Kokutai, Poeleti (Penfui), Timor, March 1942; attribution note includes Lt Zenjiro Miyano.
• A6M2 Model 21, code “F-108”, 4th Kokutai, Lae, New Guinea, March 1942; attribution note includes FPO1c Hiroyoshi Nishizawa.
• A6M2 Model 21, code “V-158”, Tainan Kokutai, Denpasar airfield, Bali, March 1942; attribution note includes FPO2c Susumi Ishihara.
• A6M2 Model 21, code “V-141” with Houkoku-439 inscription, Tainan Kokutai, Denpasar airfield, Bali, March 1942; attribution note includes FPO2c Yoshisuke Arita.
• A6M2 Model 21, code “V-138”, Tainan Kokutai, Lakunai, Rabaul, August 1942; attribution note includes Lt (jg) Jun-ichi Sasai.
• A6M2 Model 21, code “V-172”, construction number 5784, Tainan Kokutai, Lakunai, Rabaul, August 1942; attribution note includes FPO1c Saburo Sakai.
• A6M3 Model 32, code “Q-102” with Houkoku-872 inscription, construction number 3030, 2nd Kokutai, Buna (Papua New Guinea), August 1942; attribution note includes FCPO Kazu-o Tsunoda.
• A6M2 Model 21, code “V-103”, construction number 3647, Tainan Kokutai, Lakunai, Rabaul, September 1942; attribution note includes FCPO Tora-ichi Takatsuka.
• A6M3 Model 32, code “X-151” with Houkoku-994 inscription, 202nd Kokutai, Kendari (Celebes), November 1942; attribution note includes F1c Kiyoshi Ito.

This decal set is part of the Print Scale range and belongs to the Decals and Waterslide Decals categories. It is designed for use with 1/72 scale aircraft model kits and complements projects in the aircraft model kits collection.

FAQ

Which Zero variants are covered by this sheet?

The options listed are for A6M2 Model 21 and A6M3 Model 32 subjects. Match the selected option to your kit’s wing and cowling details before application.

Are the marking options linked to specific units and locations?

Yes. Each option includes a kokutai/unit reference and a dated location (for example Bali, Rabaul, Timor, or Papua New Guinea), which helps you choose a consistent setting for the build.

Do the “Houkoku” inscriptions require special handling during application?

These are typically small items. Use a gloss base coat, position with fine tweezers, and allow the decal to settle fully before sealing with your preferred clear coat.

Will these decals fit any 1/72 A6M kit?

The set is listed as universal for 1/72 scale. Confirm code sizing and placement against your kit’s tail and fuselage layout, as different manufacturers may vary slightly in panel lines and control-surface breaks.