The USS Growler (SSG-577) was one of the U.S. Navy’s most distinctive Cold War submarines, designed around the bold concept of carrying and launching Regulus cruise missiles from massive deck hangars. This 3D printable model is heavily inspired by the real vessel while being carefully optimized for additive manufacturing. With a finished length of approximately 85 cm, the model corresponds to a scale of ~1:112, capturing the imposing proportions of the original 94.8-meter submarine. All major control and mission-defining elements are fully articulated, including dive planes, rudder, propellers, periscopes, and the iconic missile hangar hatches. A Regulus missile, scaled specifically to fit inside the hangars, is also included, allowing the model to be displayed in multiple historically inspired configurations.

3D printing settingsThe model consists of 50+ separate STL parts, divided to fit standard desktop 3D printers while requiring minimal supports. Parts are engineered for clean alignment and robust assembly, making this a rewarding project for experienced builders who enjoy large, mechanically expressive display models. While primarily intended as a static display, the articulation and modular breakdown provide ample opportunity for further detailing or functional experimentation by advanced modelers. A full-color 3MF file is included for color-capable printers, and the entire model can be scaled if desired. This is a striking centerpiece model that celebrates one of the most unconventional submarines ever put to sea—designed to look impressive on the shelf and even more impressive during assembly.