ICM 1:32 Hs 123 A-1 (Late)

[rverissimo]

1:32 ICM Hs 123 A-1 (Late)

Ref: 32015

Introduction

ICM continues its dynamic and steady pace of monthly releases, either introducing brand-new kits or, as in this case, a new version of the 1:32 scale Hs 123A, originally launched in 2024.

This time, we have the “late” version of this iconic German biplane, which explored and developed the concept of dive bombing. Equipped with a large, bulky fixed and faired undercarriage, it was capable of operating from poorly prepared airfields — a reflection of the aeronautical thinking of the time. A biplane with an open cockpit, reminiscent of the Soviet I-153. One of its construction innovations was its fully metal fuselage and wings, which increased its survivability on the battlefield in case of damage. Its baptism of fire occurred during the Spanish Civil War, and despite its outdated design, it remained in service with the Luftwaffe until late 1944. It was also supplied in small numbers to Nationalist China, where it achieved some success against Japanese forces.

What’s in the box

Inside ICM’s typical cardboard box, we find a transparent plastic bag containing 9 grey sprues and one with the clear parts, totalling 201 pieces. Also included are an A4 instruction manual with 20 pages, a decal sheet, and a leaflet showcasing the colour range offered by ICM.

Overview of all grey sprues

Let's then check the sprues!

Sprue A

This sprue provides the fuselage halves, including the upper gun cover.
It features scale-appropriate detailing, with well-fitted gun fairings and finely moulded, realistic cooling and exhaust grilles.

Sprue B

This sprue contains the two halves of the upper wing.
The lower half includes slots to fit the outer and central struts that secure the wing in place.

Sprue C

This sprue includes the full-width lower half of the corresponding lower wing, along with the respective upper halves that join with the fuselage.
Consistent with the overall design, there is a subtle distinction between fabric-covered and metal panels.

Sprue D

This sprue provides all the movable surfaces of the model, each composed of two halves.
The internal structure detailing is subtly visible across all parts.

Sprue E

This sprue draws attention to the two halves of the radial engine (BMW 132), with delicate detailing throughout the propulsion subassembly.
Separate parts such as exhaust collectors, valve tubes, and triform cowling bracing enhance realism and detail.
The engine cowling is supplied in nine parts, which may be assembled closed or left open to display the full engine.
Two instrument panels are included, featuring raised detail to simulate instrument placement, later complemented by the decal-supplied panels.
The internal cockpit structure is also well represented, even if much of it becomes hidden once the fuselage is closed — but we know it’s there 😊.
The pilot’s seat is supplied without seatbelts, so these will need to be scratch-built or sourced from aftermarket sets.

Sprue F (x2)

These sprues include the parts for the main landing gear legs (comprising a primary and secondary support strut).
The gear covers are also supplied in halves.
The barrels of the main guns are included, featuring cooling holes (not drilled through), which, once painted, convincingly replicate the original.
The offensive armament (four standard bombs or four with extended fuses) is supplied in halves.
The main wheels feature fine, scale-appropriate detail. As they are supplied in two halves, the tyre tread will need to be redefined after assembly and are presented without “sag” effect.

Sprue G

This sprue includes some of the most detailed and delicate parts in the kit.
Notable elements include the actuators for the ailerons and stabilizers, as well as cockpit levers and buttons.
For this area of the model, parts include:

• Side consoles, with highlights such as the flare pistol
• Control sticks
• Oxygen bottle
  The control stick is particularly reminiscent of the iconic Spitfire.
  The engine exhaust manifold are also provided, already moulded with open ends — requiring only suitable painting to simulate the openings.

Sprue H
This sprue provides the windscreen in a single piece and the navigation lights for the wing tips.

Decals

The decal sheet includes markings for the four available versions, as well as service stencils. as standard they are well printed, with sharp colour and detail.

Instructions

In line with ICM’s usual quality, the instructions match the overall standard of the kit:
Glossy paper with full-colour painting and marking profiles;
20 pages, with the build process divided into 71 steps;
Clear and easy-to-follow assembly diagrams, leaving no doubt about part placement;
Version options (with or without gear fairings) are clearly marked, along with their corresponding paint schemes;
The final page includes a template for cutting masks for the windscreen;

Sprues overview

cockpit assembly

lower wing to fuselage assembly

engine assembly

complete model with masks template

Marking Options

Four options are provided, each with historically accurate schemes and varying levels of painting complexity:

1. Hs 123A-1, II.(Sch)/LG 2, 2nd (Assault) Group of the 2nd Training Squadron, France, Spring 1940
2. Hs 123A-1, Flugzeugführerschule A/B 71, Pilot School A/B 71, Prossnitz, Summer 1941
3. Hs 123A-1, Erg.St.(Sch.)/LG 2, Auxiliary (Assault) Squadron of the 2nd Training Squadron, Eastern Front, Winter 1942
4. Hs 123A-1, II./SG 2, 2nd Group, 2nd Assault Squadron, Eastern Front, Spring 1944

Conclusion

This second edition of the kit showcases the quality we’ve come to expect from ICM.
Despite its scale, it’s not an overly complex kit, and it avoids being overloaded with tiny parts and sub assemblies that demand excessive build time.
Details such as the well-appointed cockpit — with side consoles, instrument panels, and internal structures — and the multi-part engine, which is impressively realistic at this scale, contribute to the overall appeal.
The four marking options offer a range of styles with varying painting challenges, and the aircraft’s operational history allows for highly detailed and weathered finishes.
This is a kit that can be built by both beginners and experienced modellers who enjoy adding scratch-built enhancements.
A highly recommended model of an elegant and original aircraft subject!

Our thanks to ICM for providing the review sample!

Ricardo Veríssimo