Akula Class (Project 971) Submarine Model (Project Shchuka-B)

Now with FREE 1/200 Akula static display version!

History The Akula class formed the backbone of the Russian Navy. This nuclear-powered submarine was significantly quieter and larger than its predecessors (such as the Alfa class). Unlike the titanium-hulled Alfa, the Akula is constructed from steel.

Technical Data (Full Scale):

Length: 110.3 meters

Beam: 13.6 meters

Height: 24 meters

To this day, an estimated 3 to 5 units remain in service. This class is currently being replaced by the newer Yasen class. The Indian Navy has also leased several Akulas in the past.

The Model

This model is designed at 1/100 scale, resulting in a total length of 110.3 cm. This is a practical, manageable size that remains highly visible on the water.

It is pre-configured for a 110 mm WTC (Watertight Cylinder), for which the files are also available on this website. Naturally, you can also design or install your own custom WTC. The forward dive planes can be made functional using a waterproof micro servo. The rudders and rear dive planes are movable, with two options for the dive planes:

Internal linkage: Space is very tight, and the shafts of the rudder and dive planes cross each other. Horns for the rudders are included, but not for the dive planes.

External linkage (Recommended): The hull includes pre-made conduits, allowing the linkage rods to be installed almost invisibly.

The hull is split into upper and lower halves, featuring a click-lock mechanism operated via the rear escape hatch/button. You may, of course, opt for your own closure method.

The periscopes are scale-accurate and are best printed using an SLA (Resin) printer. While a propeller is included in the files, it is recommended to purchase a brass propeller for a functional RC boat.

The files for the display stand are included; it features two drawers for storing small parts or tools. The inside of the cradle should be lined with a rubber or foam strip approximately 5–6 mm thick.

Material Advice: It is recommended to print the hull in ABS or ASA. I personally used ABS-GF; while this makes surface details slightly less sharp, it is significantly stiffer and suffers from much less warping.

Note: The images of the printed version are taken from the smaller 1/200 version of this model.

The Set Includes:

-Detailed hull in 9 sections (Split into upper and lower halves).

-Periscope set.

-Propeller (7 blades).

-Servo mount for the forward dive planes (servo in the wet section).

-Pre-configured mounts for a 110 mm WTC.

-Practical display stand with storage.

-A set of sensors for hull mounting.

-Y-connector for the dive plane linkage rods.

-FREE Akula 1/200 scale static model version

Required for a functional RC model:

A bronze bushing (4x8x12 mm).

A 110 mm WTC (preferred).

Note: This is not a plug-and-play model. Building a functional RC submarine is a complex task. Experience with RC boats is highly recommended, and a self-solving mindset is necessary. There is no manual included, but the files are organized logically, and assembly should be straightforward for experienced builders.

Printing Requirements:

Build Plate: Minimum 220x220x220 mm (Model printed on a Bambu Lab X1/P1/A1).

Filament: ABS, ASA, or ABS-GF.

Lock Arm: PETG.

Advice: Use an enclosed printer for best results.

3D printing settingsPrinterbed: 220x220x220Filament: Asa, Abs, Abs-gfFilament WTC: Petg, ABS.

Enclosed prnter is advised.