Collector grade Tamiya 60737 1/72 Aichi M6A1 Seiran aircraft model kit  [60737]

What the Aichi M6A1 Seiran represents

The Aichi M6A1 Seiran is notable for being a purpose-built submarine aircraft from World War II. Its ability to be stored in submarine hangars and quickly deployed sets it apart from conventional naval aircraft of the era.

Historical development and key features

Work on the Seiran began in 1942 when Aichi Aircraft Company was tasked with producing a compact attack plane. It was powered by the Atsuta 32, a 12-cylinder liquid-cooled engine based on the Daimler-Benz DB603 concept. The aircraft used folding wings and a collapsible tail to fit into tight submarine storage spaces.

Appeal for scale modellers

Tamiya's 1/72 kit recreates the Seiran's defining details, including the folding assemblies and ordnance options. The build offers a neat project for modellers interested in naval aviation and compact engineering from the WWII period.