Retro-inspired Tamiya 60737 1/72 Aichi M6A1 Seiran scale model  [60737]

A brief on the Aichi M6A1 Seiran

The Aichi M6A1 Seiran is a distinctive WWII design made to operate from submarines. Its compact storage and launch concept make it an intriguing subject for scale enthusiasts and period dioramas.

Design background and technical notes

Commissioned in 1942, the Seiran was developed by Aichi Aircraft Company as a submarine-compatible attack plane. It used the Atsuta 32 12-cylinder liquid-cooled engine, influenced by the Daimler-Benz DB603. Folding wings and a collapsible tail were key design features to permit storage within submarine hangars.

Model building highlights

Tamiya's 1/72 rendition captures the Seiran's notable mechanisms and load-carrying options. Builders can recreate the aircraft with torpedoes or bombs, exploring the compact engineering that defined submarine aircraft operations.