Everyone, have you ever seen a patrol vessel? You might have seen footage on the news of a large, white ship carrying a helicopter and swiftly navigating the sea. What we are introducing this time is a precision plastic model of the largest class of patrol vessels, the first ship of the “Reimei-class,” the “PLH-33 Reimei.” The real ship was assigned to the waters of Kagoshima in 2020 and stands on the front lines protecting Japan's vast territorial waters. It is designed to carry one helicopter and is capable of prolonged patrol activities. Such a reliable guardian of the sea is now available in your hands at 1/700 scale.

This model has actually been on sale for a while, but this “White Molded Version” is slightly different. Previous versions had a white hull, but the deck was green and the bottom of the ship was red as separately colored parts. However, in this new edition, the deck and the superstructure are unified in white. What's great is that for those who want to paint in fine detail themselves, a white base is the ultimate canvas. The shading of the parts is easy to see, and the freedom to craft your ideal “Reimei” expands considerably.

The impression of a ship model changes depending on how it's displayed, doesn't it? With this kit, you can choose to assemble either a “Waterline Model,” which looks like it's floating on the sea, or a “Full Hull Model,” which fully reproduces the ship's bottom. Not only does this broaden the range of display options, but the ability to arrange it according to purpose is appealing. Since the underside of the vessel is molded in red, it finishes realistically even when assembled as a Full Hull model.

Another highlight of this model is the included photo-etched parts. Flags, flagpoles, and a ship nameplate are included, and they add a subtle sophistication. Especially the flag, which shows dedication by allowing you to bend it by hand to reproduce the appearance of it fluttering in the wind. It's a production that makes the static model feel as if it has motion. Just by looking at it, the atmosphere of “We are setting sail now” is conveyed. The ship nameplate is also included, making the satisfaction after completion exceptional.

What shouldn't be forgotten is the included helicopter, the “EC.225LP.” Though small, it is exquisitely made, and setting it on the deck instantly increases the realism. The presence of the helicopter further emphasizes the patrol vessel's mission. The total length of 213.8 mm is a perfect size; it's impressive even when displayed. Spending a few hours of a holiday engrossed in this model feels like you can sense the vastness of Japan's sea and the gravity of its security.