The Japanese Type 1 Ho-Ni I was a self-propelled gun (SPG) developed by the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II, designed to provide mobile anti-tank and fire support for infantry and armored units. Built on the chassis of the Type 97 Chi-Ha medium tank, the Ho-Ni I was equipped with a powerful 75mm Type 90 field gun, mounted in an open-topped, lightly armored superstructure. This configuration allowed for greater firepower and range than traditional tanks but offered minimal protection for the crew, especially from above and behind. Introduced in 1942, it was intended to combat increasingly better-armored Allied tanks, though it was primarily used in defensive roles, particularly in the Philippines and on the Japanese home islands. Its limited production—only around 124 units were built—reflected Japan’s industrial constraints and its prioritization of other vehicle types. Despite its vulnerabilities, the Ho-Ni I marked Japan’s first true tank destroyer and was a significant step in the evolution of Japanese armored warfare, offering much-needed mobile fire support late in the war.
 
Multi part resin model.
 
Printed by Imperator Models on License from Wargame 3D.