▋ Packed with many world-first elements!
SWS F-4C Phantom II Wild Weasel IV is finally coming to you!
●Pre-order period ......... finally from 21st December 2024 (JST)
●Available ......... at last from 1st February 2025 (JST)
A kit that the F-4 fans all over the world have been waiting for - now it's time to add it to your collection.
Click Here to Purchase from the VOLKS Official Online Store
Product details page ›
It's been a while, hello SWS brothers〜〜〜〜〜
For some reason, this Zoukei-Mura The Old Man Blog suddenly stopped and already a year has passed. I am sorry to all of you who have worried about me. And also thank you very much at the same time.
It has been a long time, but I hope you, SWS brothers around the world have been well.
This is a personal matter, but last year in September 2023 I had a medical check-up and was told there was something suspicious.
Yes, indeed, over the past ten years, at every annual medical check-up, my doctor pointed out that my kidney function was weakening. And yet, I didn’t care at all because I was still “young”. I didn’t pay any attention to my diet and exercise routine.
Then my life turned around... I had to take a thorough MRI and CT scan in addition to regular blood and urine test, and the diagnosis was “suspicion of cancer in the right kidney”, which was confirmed “possible” by the extra diagnostic test that I took as a second opinion.
They advised me to have surgery as soon as possible to remove it. And when I requested it, I was surprised to find out that there was a waiting list for surgery on various internal organs at the university hospital. Since it was a big hospital, every day all kinds of surgeries are performed, and many patients are waiting for their turn.
In my case, it turned out that after the medical check-up in September, I would be able to have surgery in six months or so.
“Hmmm. It's only six months. But it's still six months. Do I need to wait as long as 180 days? No way.”
From that point, I suddenly started studying.
What is a kidney, what kind of organ is it, how does it work, and what happens when it fails? I spent days and days searching through medical books, social media, YouTube and all kinds of other materials.
As a result, I came to understand how important and vital kidneys are.
I also learnt a lot about what happens when they don’t work properly. And what happens when they are affected by cancer.
In the worst-case scenario, I have to undergo “dialysis”, that is my blood would be drawn into an external purifier, cleaned mechanically and returned to my body. That sounds so scary.
It seems like this procedure takes three to four times a week for more than four hours each time. All the while, I must be in bed!
Furthermore, I've learned about good things, bad things and things never to do for kidneys.
There are many things that are essential to stay healthy, such as food, diet, fluids, exercise, urination, excretion and, above all, mental stability. I now realize the importance of dairy routines.
For many years, these things had completely slipped my mind.
After six months of worrying, the time had finally come - March 2024. I took pre-surgical screening in hospital. They found some issues in the heart this time. Yes, I have an irregular heartbeat. It is a troublesome one called atrial fibrillation. Periodically, the atria regularly beat irregularly. This causes small blood clots, which can get stuck in the brain and lungs.
I can get medication that prevents blood clots, but it has a side effect that makes it harder to stop bleeding on a surgical procedure, and so on.
On top of this, they found a “spinal canal stenosis” from MRI. There was a stenosis in the third part of my spine, which was the cause of the pain and numbness.
But “kidney cancer” was my top propriety.
On 18 March, after six months of waiting. I finally had surgery at Kyoto Prefectural University Hospital.
A long metal tube was inserted into six points in the abdomen. The surgery was done by a remote method, called robotic surgery. I was not aware of anything at all; no discomfort since I was under general anesthesia.
All I could do was to trust my surgeon's team believing what they had told me and leave everything to them.
I was lying in bed, headed to the operating room. I saw my wife waving at me through the door.
A number of patients, like me, were queuing up in bed.
Once in the operating room, under the big lights, they checked everything one by one including patient verification. The anesthetist told me that the surgery was about to begin. Gradually, I began to lose my memory.
I heard it took as long as six hours, and when I woke up, I had many tubes stuck in my mouth, abdomen and arms, they looked like some kind of IV drip.
I tried to respond to a nurse, but I was unable to speak. I could barely breathe in bed.
I woke up in a large room where the beds of patients who, like me, just had surgery were lined up. They were being monitored for unexpected changes in their condition.
I was unable to move, let alone turn over, due to the tubes to allow abdominal bleeding and urine to drain. The thick tube for artificial respiration had probably been inserted deep into my throat. I was unable to speak. The phlegm clinging to the throat and trachea was so uncomfortable.
I was feeling the need to urinate so much... and then, to my surprise, a thick pipe was still inserted into my privates. And adhesive tape was all the way up to my waist. The patient lying next to me, was probably wearing the same staff. He asked the nurse in a feeble voice “When are these going to be removed?”.
She said “Well, in four days.” What!? Four days!! Apparently, that patient had had all his erectile cancer removed, so it's not exactly the same as my case, but it would be something similar.
And then I fell asleep.
The next morning, hospital routines began. They transferred me to a private room after confirming that I had been in a stable condition. The nurse said to me, “Now, please stand up and walk around.” Really? It's only the second day but am I supposed to be walking around?
‘‘Yes. Before patients like you would have been put on bed to rest, but that was a long time ago. Nowadays, the treatment policy suggests patients to walk if they can from the day after surgery.”
Okay. I see. I didn't know that.
I wish to recover and get back to work as soon as I can. So, I'm going to walk! Walk, walk, walk and I need to get out of here as quickly as possible!
Gah! I had all sorts of pipes stuck here and there on my body, and they were dangling and annoying when I tried to move and they hurt a lot.
However, I needed to walk.
I need to walk in the hospital with the help of a pipe device with IV bags hanging from it, a small bag for urination and blood drainage on my waist.
while experiencing distinctive pains and considerable discomfort. I looked around and saw patients like me waddling here and there. I won’t be a loser!
However, the reality is I was getting tired after walking five meters. Hospitals remained cautious regarding Covid-19 and did not allow meeting visitors in person, so I had to walk alone all the time.
During the day I could not go to the waiting area where all the outpatients were. Evening was a good time for me to walk along the corridors of the hospital. Even though there were heaters, I felt the corridors were cold without anyone.
The meals on the first days were a liquid diet like hot water and a piece of fruit. Then I take painkillers and some other medicines before being checked by a nurse.
Tapes on the abdomen and excretions are also essential. About four days after the surgery, I was surprised at how much urine came out like blood spurting out a fresh wound. The most painful thing was that, yes, I could not cough. I tried to do small coughs, but the pain was so intense where the scar was on my abdomen. Once, I just sneezed as I would normally do. “Achoo!” At that moment, the pain was so intense that I couldn't even breathe, and the pain started in my abdomen and went through my whole body. I just had to endure the severe pain for a while.
Nurses, why didn't you tell me never to cough nor sneeze from the beginning?
There is another thing. Every day since the day of my surgery, friendly nurses ask me. ‘Have you passed a gas yet?’, which makes me so embarrassed. We ought to change some medical terminology, don't we?
On top of that, four days later, the young female doctor said, ‘Okay here we go!’ and pulled out the nasty pipe stuck in my crotch. I'll never forget the look of triumph on her face.
Though I was in a lot of pain, I pretended to be fine.
Of course, I couldn't take a bath, but I could shower after making sure the wound was completely covered.
Anyway, walk, walk, sleep well, take it easy, eat and drink well, urinate and excrete well.
Two weeks had passed. Finally, I was able to leave the hospital. I would like to thank my doctor and all the nurses for everything. I cannot describe how much their dedication to my treatment and nursing, encouraged me during my surgery and hospital stay.
I am back at work now because I have been in good condition after the one-month, three-month and six-month checkups.
If the cancer does not metastasize or change for the worse in a year's time, it will be considered that I have recovered.
In my case, the disease of kidney cancer has given me the opportunity to reflect more. When we reach a certain age, naturally our bodies may endure more struggles and pains.
I want to say to all of you, SWS brothers, please do not miss any small changes, but pay attention to the signals from your body with all eyes and ears and take the appropriate measures when necessary.
The kidneys in particular need attention and care!! Excessive intake of salt, phosphorus, protein, and alcohol can be harmful to your health.
▋Here you go, F-4 fans!
The F-4C Phantom II Wild Weasel IV, the “reckless weasel”, is finally making its appearance with the world's first faithfully reproduction of its form and additional equipment!
It is known as a dedicated aircraft for SEAD (Suppression of Enemy Air Defense) missions, attacking the enemy's anti-aircraft radar sites and guided operational aircraft safely.
▋The unique external shape of the aircraft was faithfully reproduced including the radome shape on the nose, the additional antennae on the underside of the nose and the sides of the air intakes.
●Decals are two types of 388TFW/67TFS, “SUPER COCKS SWISS SAMLAR” and “JAIL BAIT” deployed from Kadena Air Base, Okinawa to Korat Air Base, Thailand in October 1972, and 52TFW/81TFS deployed to Spangdahlem airbase in West Germany in 1975. Three types of large-format Cartograf decals are included.
▋Some of the highlights
●Dedicated components underside of the nose was made into parts for the first time in the world (KB-18 strike camera, AN/ALR-53 receiver and tape recorder built in the actual aircraft).
●AN/ALQ-87ECM pod for jamming enemy radio signals.
●The first American anti-radar missile, the AGM-45 Shrike (two missiles).
Add the expanding SWS 1/48 F-4 series to your collection.
▋The AD-6 kit, long awaited by the Skyraider fans, is finally available from SWS in a vivid glossy sea blue.
Although expected as a versatile carrier-based attack aircraft, was it going to be left behind in the wave of jet aircraft? It seemed so, but the reason why this aircraft showed unexpected success was because of its excellent basic design.
From the frozen battlefields to the burning jungles, this is the perfect chance to get the most trusted and eagerly awaited aircraft by the allies on the ground.
▋Featuring a very attractive AD-6-like appearance.
I am telling you that the Skyraider is one of my favorite aircraft, so I am very delighted. As soon as this kit went on sale, I piled up several of them for my personal collection, and I've been chewing on the joy. I encourage you to include this in your collection, too.
▋The Skyraider has the delicacy in the bold form of an attack aircraft.
You can see this in the cockpit, too. What kind of Skyraider would you make out of this kit by adding more ingenious modifications and decorations? This is a very profound aircraft.
▋Above is the work by Zoukei-Mura master finisher Naoki Kobayashi.
His skill in bringing out the powerful appeal of this large attack aircraft to its fullest is remarkably impressive. This finished model is on display in the SWS section at Hobby Square Kyoto which is located on the first floor of the Volks headquarters during the following period. When you visit the shop, I hope you will enjoy its stunning perfection.
[Showcase period] 21 Dec 2024 (Sat) - 5 Jan 2025 (Sun)
▋“No way!” has become a real thing!
The SWS 1/32 ‘Ho 229’, with astonishing mechanism in the astonishing plastic model kit, has continued to amaze aircraft model fans all over the world since its release in 2014. This time, the “No way!” Ho 229 B (two-seater) is going to challenge you!
Of course, the structure has been thoroughly reproduced from the fuselage to the inside of the main wings. Here is the fascination of all-wing aircraft construction and the real pleasure of recreating the absolute legend, two-seater that you can only experience with the SWS Ho 229 kit.
▋This new release has been developed from the standard 1/32 Ho 229, with new studies and redesigns. It will allow you to recreate the unique all-wing aircraft in an even more advanced two-seat form.
We hope you will add this ‘Ho 229 B’ to your collection. It will surely stand out from the crowd.
●The kit is to set to launch ......... in summer 2025.
The cockpit, which is narrow on both sides, is a front-rear tandem two-seat configuration, with a radar operator in the rear seat.
Instead of a prototype-like frame structure, which was exposed to the roar and tremor of the “Jumo 004” echoing from both sides, the two-seat version evolved into a bathtub shape like modern fighters, for the protection of the pilot and the increased complexity of armament and radar-related equipment for night combat. The kit accurately recreates the night fighter “Ho 229 B Nachtjäger” with FuG 220 Liechtenstein radar antenna, which was installed on the He 219 and other aircraft for night spotting. While assembling, you can learn about the aircraft’s development process. This is one of the best parts of the SWS!
1. Based on the single-seat type kit, which was developed after thorough research on the actual aircraft, this is the first 1/32 scale model of the two-seat type, which was originally a blueprint!
2. Full-colour instruction manual in both Japanese and English with detailed diagrams. You can learn about the actual aircraft during the build.
3. Two types of decals with fictional markings based on the hypothetical ‘if it had existed’ are included.
4. Canopy options for open or closed positions. Die-cut masking sheet included for paintwork.
5. Options for single-seat type or double-seat type. Clear exterior parts allowing you to see the internal structure.
Stand by for the attack of the monster bird SWS 1/32 Ho 229 B!
The long-awaited “Japanese Army Fighter Ki-100” latest news.
The SWS 1/32 Ki-100 has finally reached the final stage. The progress from the basic design, which had been completed brilliantly, to the tooling was smooth. The test samples are arriving one by one. The very wonderful Ki-100.
Argh! As you know, we can't let our guard down yet since this is the development of SWS kits. This is true. This is where the final stage of the project begins, the hard uphill climb. I am not going into detail, but I feel like all kinds of difficulties pop up as we solve the last ones. Overwhelming work goes on and on. Tooling dilemma is like trade-off, if you stand up for one thing, another thing will appear.
But all of you who like Japanese aircraft, I can finally say that the Ki-100 that will not disappoint you is coming. See, I can feel a glimpse of it from the small parts on my hand.
The internal structure and its form, previously unknown, have been revealed through research into the restoration work at the Royal Air Force Museum. This research has enabled us to recreate the actual aircraft and its details.
The world’s first and only 1/32 “Ki-100” full kit is about to be released.
“What? We don't need a reproduction of the internal structure. We only need the outside.”
Don't be like the old me. I, who now have a strong curiosity, feel that the secrets of this aircraft, its performance and functions, and its existence value cannot be explained without an exploration of its internal structure, and without it I would feel something is missing. Knowing that the development costs of this kit will result in a significant deficit, we have developed it in the hope that you will appreciate and enjoy the value of the Ki-100.
Now, if all goes well, we may be able to deliver the Ki-100 to you at the end of 2025 or early 2026. Please look forward to it.
▋Look! Everyone's favorite P-51B/C is finally unveiling!
Great success on the European front, “Little friend” will join your collection.
The A may be difficult, but we can do the B and the C in SWS kits. Thus if that becomes a reality, you will be able to complete the Mustang brothers with SWS kits B, C, D and K.
Another dream of mine and yours can come true. What? What about the H? ....
That may be... impossible... impossible...
Anyway, the B and the C would allow you to do so many kinds of markings. Please plan ahead using the reference materials you have on hand.
As always, we try our best to reproduce as much detail as possible, from the entire form of the aircraft to the fuselage structure and internal mechanisms. Furthermore, this B/C kit is made from completely new tooling!
I’m pretty sure that both you and I will shout with happiness and amazement.
▋P-51B/C is scheduled for launch around 2026.
The P-51 Mustang B/C, the great liquid-cooled fighter with the great Super Merlin engine.
The strong are beautiful. The beautiful are strong.
Another rare single-seat fighter from WWII is about to be released as an SWS kit.
It is the engine and its mounting, the cockpit design, function and structure, the powerful armament and weapon loading, fire protection, bulkheads, bullet-proof equipment and the wing design, the beautiful fuselage as a result of the ingenious manufacturing methods and its matching propeller.
A masterpiece aircraft model that is truly admirable in every way, presented by SWS with passion and unique method. Stay tuned!
As the representative of Zoukei-mura, I would like to apologize for writing a little outrageous blog this time.
However, it is true that this ordeal has given me much more motivation to develop the SWS kits.
We could not make it by the end of this year, but please don't worry. New exciting kits are on the way with even more upgrades.
We will keep aiming for a great reputation from experienced modelers like you, such as “SWS kits are like an aircraft museum level of perfection!”
I would like to conclude this blog by wishing all SWS brothers a happy New Year from Kyoto, Japan, and please taking care of your health!
See you soon~~! Goodbye: ~~~~~~
Hideyuki Shigeta
President, Zoukei-Mura
Old Man Blog No.134
Enjoy the best part of SWS kit with the instruction manual. Imperial Japanese Navy fighter aircraftSHINDENl: Episode 2