Mirage Hobby UBoat U40 Type IXA Model Kit

The new type of submarine was a continuation of the successful type VII sea-going submarine. This type developed the features of the type IAA and was intended for ocean service. First 8 vessels were ordered in 1936 and were built at Deschimag AG Weser at Bremen. They received shipyards numbers 942 to 949 (tactical nos. U37 to U44) and were known as the type U-IXA. The U-40 took over the symbols of the U-25 and for a while (between February and April 1939) wore the gothic "40" about 1/3 of the conning tower height tall. Once the ship started preparations for combat operations this number was overpainted and disruptive camouflage applied. The number was replaced with a badge showing an umbrella inside a ring, although the Jolly Roger emblem remained on the conning tower. The ship prepared for combat operations under Capt. Werner von Schmidt. In September 1939 command of the U-40 was taken over by Capt. Wolfgang Barten. The U-40 left Wilhelmshaven for her maiden combat mission on 13 October 1939. 13 proved an unlucky number, as the submarine hit a mine at the entrance to the English Channel and sank. 45 crew members perished and only 2 were rescued.