German U-Boat Type XXI 3D Metal Model Kit - Metal Earth MMS121

The Fascinations Metal Earth MMS121 German U-Boat Type XXI is a premium laser-cut 3D steel model kit of one of the most technically advanced submarines of the Second World War — the revolutionary Type XXI U-boat, which represented a quantum leap in submarine design and would have transformed the Battle of the Atlantic had it entered service earlier. Each Metal Earth kit begins as flat 4-inch square steel sheets with laser-etched detail, and the pieces are simply popped out and connected using the included tab-and-hole system — no glue or solder required.

The Type XXI U-boat was a revolutionary class of German diesel-electric submarines designed during the Second World War that fundamentally changed submarine warfare. Unlike all previous U-boat designs — which were essentially surface ships that could submerge briefly — the Type XXI was designed from the outset to operate primarily underwater. Its massive battery capacity, streamlined hull, and powerful electric motors gave it a submerged speed and endurance far exceeding any Allied anti-submarine vessel's ability to pursue it. The Type XXI could recharge its batteries using the snorkel system without fully surfacing, and its underwater speed of 17.2 knots made it faster submerged than many Allied convoy escort ships were on the surface. Had the Type XXI entered service in large numbers before the end of the war — rather than in the final months of 1945 — it could have revived the U-boat campaign at a time when Allied anti-submarine forces had virtually defeated the conventional U-boat fleet. The Type XXI directly influenced all post-war submarine design worldwide, including the first nuclear submarines. This Metal Earth model captures the distinctive streamlined hull, conning tower, and hydrodynamic form of the Type XXI in beautifully etched miniature steel.

Key Features:

• 2 laser-cut 4" square steel sheets — premium quality etched metal
• Challenging difficulty level — rewarding build for experienced Metal Earth builders
• Assembled size: 7.48"L × 0.79"W × 1.57"H (19 × 2.01 × 3.99 cm)
• No glue or solder required — tab-and-hole assembly system
• Illustrated step-by-step instructions included
• Highly detailed laser-etched surface detail including hull plating, deck fittings, and conning tower
• UPC: 032309011210

Ideal For:

• WWII naval enthusiasts and U-boat history collectors
• Metal Earth collectors building their naval and submarine series
• Experienced Metal Earth builders seeking a challenging project
• Gift buyers seeking a unique WWII naval-themed gift

The Metal Earth German U-Boat Type XXI makes a striking desk display and a perfect gift for any WWII naval enthusiast. Available at AFVHobbyHub.com.