JMSDF DE 229/230 Abukuma / Jintsu 1:700 Hasegawa WL013

Plastic model kit: JMSDF DE 229/230 Abukuma / Jintsu 1:700 Hasegawa WL013

A plastic model kit depicting a post-war Japanese destroyer escort (DE - Destroyer Escort). The kit from Hasegawa's Water Line Series allows for the construction of one of two Abukuma-class units: DE-229 Abukuma or DE-230 Jintsu. Models in this series feature a flat bottom, enabling their realistic presentation on flat surfaces imitating the water surface.

Historical background:

The Abukuma-class destroyers are a class of destroyer escorts of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), whose construction began in the late 1980s. They were designed as successors to the Yubari class, with an emphasis on improving seakeeping and strengthening anti-submarine warfare (ASW) armament. The lead unit, Abukuma (DE-229), entered service in 1989, and Jintsu (DE-230) a year later. Although classified as destroyer escorts, these ships possess strong missile armament, including Harpoon anti-ship missile launchers and ASROC systems, making them versatile coastal defense units.

Model specification:

• Scale: 1:700
• Series: Water Line Series
• Option to build unit DE-229 Abukuma or DE-230 Jintsu
• Model length: approx. 155 mm
• Model width: approx. 18 mm

Suggested paint colors (according to instructions):

• Hull and superstructure: Gray FS36320 (Mr. Hobby H307 / C307)
• Deck: Dark Gray (mix of H307 + H33)
• Details: Silver, Flat Black, Flat White

Kit for self-assembly and painting. Does not include paints or glue. Assembly requires separately sold modeling tools (including nippers, files, tweezers), paints, brushes, and plastic model glue (e.g., Tamiya Extra Thin Cement). The photo shows a professionally assembled and painted model.