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ICM 1/144 Scale Type XXIII U-Boat
 

ICM 1/144 Scale Type XXIII U-Boat

By Paul Schwartzkopf

History

The Type XXIII Elektro U-boat was designed for operations in shallow and coastal waters where it's larger sister, the Type XXI, would be at risk. Only six boats of this type were operational, starting in early 1945. None of these was sunk by the Allies during World War Two. The six boats sank or damaged five allied ships for a total of 14,601 tons. The Type XXIII carried no deck guns or mines, and due to the lack of interior space, could only carry two torpedoes (one in each of it's two forward tubes) with no reloads. Many of these subs were purposely sunk by allied naval vessels after the war.

The Kit

The kit consists of 23 parts on a single sprue. The plastic is a light gray color, with an almost purplish cast to it. The detail molded into the two piece full hull is crisp and reasonable for this small scale. The two torpedo tube doors are molded in the closed position. The prop, rudder, diving planes, periscope, schnorkel, and various antenna are all molded separately. Everything looks to have the correct scale appearance.

The instructions are, naturally, quite simple for a kit like this. There is one exploded drawing which shows placement of all the parts. But it is drawn well, and there shouldn't be any questions about which part goes where. A simple stand is provided on the sprue for mounting the completed model.

Decals provide options for three different submarines. The first is for U-2322 in April of 1945. The other two options are for N-31 of the Soviet Navy in 1947, and the raised and refitted West German submarine Hai (Shark) in 1957. Flags are provided for all three options. However, the Reich flag is missing the swastikas, and will need to have them added or be replaced.

Conclusion

I'm not sure of what went into the reasoning for using 1/144 scale, rather than something of a more common "ship scale" like 1/96 (or even 1/72 to go alongside the Revell Type VIIC U-Boat). I would think it should still be popular among those who model WWII naval vessels and submarines. It's small size makes for the perfect desk top display. Recommended to all who like building U-Boat models.

Thanks to ICM Holding for the review sample.