The Japanese used a number of suicide weapons late in World War II. Besides the famous kamikaze aircraft attacks on ships, there was also the Tsurugi, a disposable aircraft designed to ram B-29s in mid-air; the Ohka, also known as the "baka bomb," a rocket-powered flying bomb dropped from Betty bombers against ships; and the Kaiten, a manned torpedo. Developed in mid-1944, it used propulsion parts from existing steam-powered torpedoes but had a 1,500kg warhead--twice the usual size. Between November of 1945 and the end of the war, 45 Kaitens were launched in attacks against shipping, with one U.S. oiler and one destroyer confirmed sunk by their attacks. Many submarines that carried Kaitens out to sea never came home, however, so additional sinkings that may have been due to their efforts cannot be confirmed.

The kit itself is a dandy! Although not visible in these photos, the rough hand-welds that covered the surface of the Kaiten are completely recreated, and there are numerous extremely small hooks and other parts to replicate all the detail of the original item, which was extensively researched by the folks at Fine Molds before they started work. The transport dolly is also included to serve as a display stand. The kit measures 20cm long when completed.

This release includes two full Kaiten kits with dollies. Does not include mothership submarine or piggyback equipment.