German submarine U-Boat Type XXIII 1:144 ICM S004

Plastic model kit: German submarine U-Boot Type XXIII 1:144 ICM S004

The plastic model kit: German submarine U-Boot Type XXIII in 1:144 scale from ICM (S004) is an excellent choice for enthusiasts of naval history and modeling. This detailed set allows you to recreate one of the most technologically advanced submarines of World War II, which revolutionized submarine design after the war.

Model features:

• Scale: 1:144
• Manufacturer: ICM
• Catalog number: S004

Markings:

• U-2322, April 1945
• N-31, Soviet Navy, 1947
• Hai, Bundesmarine, 1957

History and background: Type XXIII submarines were part of a new generation of German submarines from World War II. Their design began in late 1942, with the main goal of increasing speed and range while submerged. This was achieved by increasing battery capacity, electric motor power, and a new hull shape. They were equipped with a "Schnorkel" and advanced hydroacoustic devices, significantly reducing the noise level of the mechanisms and propellers.

Type XXIII submarines were the first operational "electro-boats," designed to operate in the shallow waters of the North Sea, Black Sea, and Mediterranean. They were small enough to carry only two torpedoes, which had to be loaded externally. Thanks to improved aerodynamics, greater battery capacity, and the use of schnorkel, they could remain submerged for longer periods and were faster than conventional U-boats.

By the end of the war, 63 units were built, of which six (U-2321, U-2322, U-2324, U-2326, U-2329, and U-2336) completed 10 combat patrols, sinking four Allied merchant ships without any losses. The last victories of German submarines in World War II occurred on May 7, 1945, when U-2336 sank two steamers.

After the war, U-2353 was handed over to the USSR and served in the Navy as N-31 until 1953. In 1956, the sunken U-2365 and U-2367 were raised, becoming the first submarines of the Bundesmarine as Hai and Hecht.

Assembly and painting kit. Does not include paints or glue. For assembly, separately sold modeling tools are needed (including cutters, files, tweezers), paints, brushes, and plastic model glue (e.g., Tamiya Extra Thin Cement). The photo shows a professionally assembled and painted model.