Fujimi has re-released its rendition of the Imperial Japanese Army Transport Submarine “Maru Yu” (Yu-1001) in 1/350 & 1/700 scales.

This set of two Transport Submarine Yu-1001 Army submarines is one of Fujimi’s original kits from 2007. According to Fujimi:

“Yes, in WWII the Japanese Army had their own submarines to help move supplies...I guess they didn't trust the navy boats! This kit of the Maru Yu Yu-1001 is actually several kits in one: You get the standard full-hull kit with parts sharply molded in light gray to build one complete submarine, plus extra clear hull parts are included if you want to show off interior detail parts. But wait! You also get a complete kit of the sub in 1/700 scale! Both scales feature a nice stand. There is also a fret of photo-etched metal detail parts for the 1/350 version, and decals for both. So, you get a choice of two versions in 1/350 (regular or clear hull), plus one full kit in 1/700...a great modeling value!

These subs are small; the 1/350 scale sub in the box is a little less than 4½ inches in length, and the 1/700 scale version comes in at about 2¼ inches.

The unusual Japanese Army submarine set can be ordered from Hobbylink Japan at https://hlj.com/product/FUJ40077 for ¥2,080 (about US$21.00).