A Nazi flying saucer toy has been taken off the shelves in Germany - amid claims it suggests Hitler's scientists successfully built a space ship.

The toy was presented as a Nazi-era war machine and described as 'the first object in the world capable of flying in space'.

But manufacturer Revell, based in Germany's North Rhine-Westphalia, has announced it will no longer be produced amid 'absolutely justified' criticism from those who pointed out such a craft never existed.

A product description described the toy, which features emblems from the Third Reich, as a 'round aircraft' that can fly 'up to speeds of 6,000 km/hr'.

A Nazi flying saucer toy has been taken off the shelves in Germany - amid claims it suggests Hitler's scientists successfully built a space ship

The model kit for the 'Flying Saucer Haunebu II' priced at 49.99 euros is marketed as being suitable for children over 12 years.

The Military History Museum (MHM) in Dresden and the German Children's Protection Association are among the critics pointing out that Revell's product's description fails to mention the aircraft never existed.

This fact alone may end up giving people the impression the Nazis had advanced technology at their disposal, said historian Jens Wehner from the MHM.

He told Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung: 'At that time it was technologically impossible to build something like this.'

Manufacturer Revell, based in Germany's North Rhine-Westphalia, has announced it will no longer be produced amid 'absolutely justified' criticism from those who pointed out such a craft never existed

'Enthusiasts can use this as a strategy to cast doubt on what we know today about National Socialism,' added the historian.

Revell said it agrees his assessment and that 'it is in fact a legendary, extraordinary aircraft which cannot be proven in terms of its existence,' The Local reports.

'Unfortunately, our product description does not adequately express this and we apologize for it'.

A spokesman said Revell distances itself from glorification of wars and the Nazi era and is trying to work out how and why the toy was developed and made available for sale.