NOTE: The vendor of this product has let me know that due to high demand, new orders will not be able to ship for a minimum of 30 days from receipt of payment. Thanks for your patience and understanding.
 
View a quick overview of this model kit on my YouTube channel here. 
 
 
Boat Background: 
Type XXI submarines were a class of German diesel–electric Elektroboot (German: "electric boat") submarines designed during the Second World War. One hundred and eighteen were completed, with four being combat ready. During the war only two were put into active service and went on patrols, but these were not used in combat.
 
They were the first submarines designed to operate primarily submerged, rather than spending most of their time as surface ships that could submerge for brief periods as a means to escape detection. They incorporated many batteries to increase the time they could spend submerged, to as much as several days, and they only needed to surface to periscope depth for recharging via a snorkel. The design included many general improvements as well: much greater underwater speed by an improved hull design, greatly improved diving times, power-assisted torpedo reloading and greatly improved crew accommodations.  
After the war, several navies obtained XXIs and operated them for decades in various roles and large navies introduced new submarine designs based on them. These include the Soviet Whiskey, US Tang, UK Porpoise and Swedish Hajen classes, all based on the Type XXI design to some extent.
 
Model Kit: 
This kit is composed of 3D printed sections, engineered for exceptionally easy assembly. Includes full brass photoetch detail part sheets and full-color decals. 

Available as U2540. 
 
Length: 42 inches (106cm)
Beam: 4.3 inches (11cm)
 
NOTE: Due to the unique characteristics inherent with 3D printing, builders may wish to allocate time to post-processing the 3D printed parts in order to remove striations evident upon close examination of the parts. We recommend a high quality filler primer and progressively finer sandpaper application to smooth the finish. 

Parts are printed in PLA plastic, which requires care in storage and transport. Excessive temperatures can distort or warp the hull. Do not leave these kits in direct sunlight or high heat for any extended periods of time.