Latest news in from across the European Continent is that Revell of Germany have announced their 1/144th German Destroyer Class 119 (Z1/Z5).

This kitset is naturally based on the existing model kit from Revell of Germany of the US Navy Fletcher Class Destroyer, however this new variant has 155 new detailed parts to authentically reproduce the German Navy version.

The full details of the set are outlined below:

German Destroyer Class 119 (Z1/Z5)
Manufacturer: Revell of Germany
Scale: 1/144
Regular Price: To be advised
Release date: Available August 2009
Item code: 05097

Kit features:

• Detailed two-part hull;
  
• Detailed drive shafts;
  
• Two movable propellers;
  
• Movable rudder;
  
• Detailed main deck;
  
• Four detailed 127mm gun mountings with movable barrels;
  
• Three detailed semi-automatic twin-barrelled quick-fire 76.2 calibre cannon;
  
• Two Hedgehog mine layers;
  
• Display stand;
  
• Decals for two vessels (Z1 & Z5).
  

Check out the released image of the kitset.

Details as to availability and price are yet to be confirmed.

We will of course update you with more detail as it comes to hand.

Ships History
To enable the speedy build-up of their navy after World War II the Federal Republic of Germany received on lease from the USA six destroyers of the Fletcher Class. Before they were taken over all the vessels received a general overhaul and refit in accordance with the requirements of the German Navy. Extensive modifications were also made to the deck superstructures. The Destroyer 1 (Z1) NATO designation D170 went into service with the German Navy in January 1958 as a destroyer of the new Class 119. The Destroyer 5 (Z5/D179) followed in February 1960.

Iamge courtesy of Revell of Germany.