Ki-61 Hein Tony - Final Defense of 357 paper art print by Craig Tinder

HISTORICAL PAPER ART BY CRAIG TINDER

Ki-61 Hein Tony - Final Defense of 357 Art Print

$29.99
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Archival-quality print · Craig Tinder artwork · Made in the USA
ABOUT THE ARTWORK

The Story Behind the Print:

On 27 January 1945, Captain Teruhiko Kobayashi of the 244th Sentai, a renowned Japanese fighter unit, prepared for a daring mission against the relentless B-29 Superfortresses of the U.S. Army Air Forces. The target that day was the 497th Bombardment Group, part of the 73rd Bomb Wing, which had been trying repeatedly to destroy Target 357, a vital aircraft engine factory in Japan. Despite numerous attempts, the group had little success in significantly damaging the facility.

Captain Kobayashi, flying a Ki-61 Hein (code-named "Tony" by the Allies), took to the skies with his wingman in an attempt to intercept the American bombers. During this mission, Kobayashi targeted one of the massive B-29s, "Irish Lassie" (serial number 42-65246). In a dramatic move, Kobayashi made a kamikaze dive and crashed his Ki-61 into the B-29’s wing, causing severe damage to the bomber. The impact knocked Kobayashi unconscious, but he later regained consciousness mid-air and managed to parachute to safety. The event would be celebrated in Japan as a successful kamikaze strike.

Although the Japanese claimed Kobayashi's attack as a confirmed kill, the story of Irish Lassie didn’t end there. Despite sustaining heavy damage, the bomber remained airborne, and its crew managed to return to base. Upon landing, Irish Lassie broke in two, but the crew survived the harrowing journey, a testament to both the durability of the B-29 and the resilience of her crew.

This paper print does not include an authentic historical relic.

PRINT DETAILS

ABOUT THE PRINT

Each In Action Print is professionally produced using archival-quality inks on premium fine-art paper selected for excellent detail, color reproduction, and longevity. The larger scene format preserves the atmosphere, historical details, and storytelling of Craig Tinder's original artwork.

AVAILABLE SIZES

  • 18" × 12" (45.7 × 30.5 cm)
  • 24" × 16" (61 × 40.6 cm)

FRAMING & PRODUCTION

Prints are sold unframed and are sized to fit widely available ready-made frames and mats, eliminating the need for custom framing in most cases. Each print is produced to order; please allow approximately 2–3 business days for production before shipment.

ABOUT CRAIG TINDER

Craig Tinder is an artist and historical researcher whose work brings significant moments in military and aviation history to life. For more than 20 years, he has combined detailed research with traditional and digital illustration techniques to create historically accurate artwork for collectors, veterans, museums, and historical organizations.

Craig has been commissioned to create artwork, installations, and memorial projects for museums, military organizations, and historical institutions throughout the United States. His work is held in museum and private collections around the world, reflecting a career built around historical accuracy, craftsmanship, and preserving the stories behind the subjects he depicts.

Every Aces In Action artwork is created by Craig Tinder, making Aces In Action the official home of his historical artwork and collectibles.

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SHIPPING & CARE

SHIPPING

Each print is produced to order and carefully packaged for shipment. Please allow approximately 2–3 business days for production before your order ships. Delivery times vary by destination and shipping method.

International orders are welcome. Customers outside the United States are responsible for any applicable customs duties, taxes, or import fees.

CARE

For long-term display, keep your print away from prolonged direct sunlight, excessive moisture, and high humidity. When framing, archival-quality mats and framing materials are recommended to help protect the artwork over time.

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IN ACTION PRINT EXPERIENCE

Framed Display Example

Rich in historical detail and atmosphere, In Action Prints turn Craig Tinder's full-scene artwork into a striking framed display.

Created by Artist Craig Tinder

Each print begins with Craig Tinder's original historically researched artwork.

Print Size Reference

Compare available print sizes and see their approximate scale.