ICM 1/144 Type XXIII U-Boat Kit First Look
By Michael Benolkin
| Date of Review | June 2006 | Manufacturer | ICM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subject | Type XXIII U-Boat | Scale | 1/144 |
| Kit Number | S004 | Primary Media | Styrene |
| Pros | Nice details, unique subject | Cons | |
| Skill Level | Basic | MSRP (USD) | $22.00 |
First Look
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The Type XXIII was a smaller U-Boat variant initially launched in April 1944. The type only carried two torpedoes, and these had to be loaded externally, that is how cramped the interior of this type was!
While 61 boats were commissioned, only six were operational during 1945. Seven more were in various stages of work-up when they were lost to accidents, mines, or in one case, to an enemy aircraft.
Of the six operational examples, four were responsible for the sinking of five ships before the end of the war.
ICM has released a nice rendition of this diminutive submarine in 1/144 scale. Molded in white styrene, the kit is presented on one parts tree.
The kit is definitely a one evening project for assembly and whatever time you need for painting. The extent of the assembly is literally the hull sides, bridge cap, dive planes, rudder, and propeller. A display stand is also included.
Markings are provided for:
- U-2322, the second operational Type XXIII
- Soviet Navy N-31, 1947
- West German Navy S170, 1957
Here is a quick build project with some interesting possibilities. If you're not into World War II German naval subjects, then the post-war Soviet and West German examples offer some nice options.
My sincere thanks to Testors for this review sample!