The ICM Models No. 20 – 1/72 German K‑Verbände Midget Submarines (kit S.020) is a small‑scale plastic model set depicting two late‑WWII German “mini‑subs” used by special naval units.

 Overview

• Manufacturer: ICM
• Scale: 1:72
• Kit number: S.020 (often listed as “ICM 20”)
• Subject: German K‑Verband midget submarines
• Era: World War II (1944–1945)

This is a combo set that includes two different submarine types in one box.

Subjects Included

The kit contains two distinct German mini‑submarines:

1. Molch (Type “Newt”)

• Single‑man midget submarine
• Electric propulsion only
• Typically operated in coastal waters
• Carried two torpedoes externally
• Built in relatively large numbers (around 393 units)

2. Seehund (Type XXVIIB)

• Two‑man midget submarine
• More advanced and seaworthy than Molch
• Dual propulsion (surface and submerged engines)
• Considered the most successful German midget sub design

Kit Contents

Inside the box you get:

• Two complete submarine kits
  • Molch (about 34 parts)
  • Seehund (about 30–35 parts)
• Plastic sprues (gray and some clear parts)
• Decals for 6 marking options
  • 4 for Molch
  • 2 for Seehund
• Display stands for both models
• Instruction manuals (separate for each sub)

Paint and glue are not included.

Detail & Features

• Accurate geometric proportions of the real submarines
• Detailed hull surfaces, including plating and fittings
• Simple but effective:
  • Propellers and control fins
  • Torpedo mounts
  • Conning tower and hatches

Interior

• Minimal interior detail (especially on Seehund), which matches the very cramped real submarines and the small scale.

Build Characteristics

• Skill level: Beginner to intermediate
• Low part count makes assembly:
  • Fast (many builds take only a few hours per sub)
  • Straightforward with simple steps

Some notes from builders:

• Older tooling (Seehund) may lack alignment pins and needs careful fit
• Newer Molch tooling has cleaner detail and improved engineering

Historical Context (K‑Verbände)

• The K‑Verbände (Kleinkampfverbände) were special German naval units formed in 1944
• Used:
  • Mini‑submarines
  • Explosive boats
  • Human torpedoes
• Intended for coastal sabotage and attack missions

Although innovative, these craft:

• Had limited range and endurance
• Achieved low overall combat success compared to losses

Finished Model

Each submarine is relatively small due to the scale:

• Compact display size (ideal for shelves or dioramas)
• Supplied stands allow waterline-style or “in‑air” display

Summary

The ICM 1/72 German K‑Verbände Midget Submarines kit offers:

• Two complete submarine models in one box
• Representation of late‑war experimental naval weapons
• Simple, quick builds with decent exterior detail
• Excellent value for modelers interested in naval or WWII subjects

Best suited for:

• Beginners wanting an easy naval kit
• Modelers interested in unusual or lesser‑known WWII equipment
• Diorama builders (harbor, coastal operations, or maintenance scenes)

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Ay'Arr ModelForge!