DKM U-Boot Type VIIC U-552, 1/48 - Trumpeter 06801

The DKM U-Boot Type VIIC U-552 Trumpeter 06801 is a plastic model kit to be assembled at 1/48, depicting a German Type VIIC submarine. This large-scale kit recreates the U-552, a Kriegsmarine U-boat from the Second World War, with a design focused on displaying the internal structures.

The Type VIIC submarine

German Type VIIC submarines are among the most well-known U-boats of the Second World War. Built in large numbers between 1940 and 1945, they were used during the Battle of the Atlantic. Their distinctive silhouette, dominated by the elongated hull and the conning tower, makes them an iconic subject for enthusiasts of historical naval model kits.

The Trumpeter 06801 model

Made at 1/48 scale, this reproduction reaches an announced overall mounted length of 1 398,3 mm with a width of 136,9 mm. Its size allows you to work on the submarine’s external volumes while also providing significant space for the interior fittings.

The kit includes more than 1 100 parts, spread across 25 sprues with the hull. The starboard side of the hull is provided in clear plastic to keep the interior visible once the model is assembled. A photo-etched part is also included to complete certain fine details.

The richness of the internal elements makes this model an especially suitable project for display on a stand or in a naval diorama. It can be exhibited with the clear hull to highlight the internal compartments, or built as a complete scale submarine replica.

Assembly and finishing

A model of this length requires careful preparation of the hull parts and a step-by-step assembly of the interior subassemblies. Gluing the plastic pieces, removing the attachment points from the sprues (deburring), and regularly checking alignment all help achieve a neat presentation.

Painting can be done in stages before closing the interior volumes. Applying a suitable primer generally helps ensure uniform paint coverage on the plastic parts and makes it easier to spot any preparation defects. A weathered finish—featuring tones, wear marks, and aging effects—can then further enhance the realistic character of a submarine that has operated in a marine environment.

Technical specifications

• Brand: Trumpeter
• Reference: 06801
• Type: plastic kit of an assembly submarine
• Subject: DKM U-Boot Type VIIC U-552
• Scale: 1/48
• Overall mounted length: 1 398,3 mm
• Overall mounted width: 136,9 mm
• Number of parts: more than 1 100
• Known contents: 25 sprues and hull, photo-etched part, starboard side of clear hull
• Special feature: detailed interior layout visible through the clear hull

Complementary products

Assembly requires cutting tools for sprues, glue suitable for plastic model kits, fine sandpaper, and brushes or an airbrush for painting. Primer, finishing putty, and weathering products may also be useful to prepare and complete this 1/48 submarine model.