The Elbe-class, being in service as Tender Klasse 404, is a class of replenishment ships in service of the German Navy. Overall six units have been built, being commissiond in 1993/1994. These six units are the Elbe, Mosel, Rhein, Werra, Main and Donau, all named after large rivers in germany.

The task of these ships is to replenish all types of warships during missions, hence they designed to carry fuel, equipment and other goods, as well being able to take on trash and such during deployment. The main difference to their successor, the Berlin-class, is the lack of a underway replenishment system, making it impossible for them to refuel other units whilst moving. Since they are not designed for frontline use, their weaponry is defensive only. Two MLG27 are used for protection against small and fast moving targets, whilst Stingers are used against aerial threats. Due to their lack of speed (15knts max.) they rely on other units like corvettes and frigates to secure the waters before they can transit.

Many units have been deployed on anti-piracy missions and rescue missions in the mediteranean and are serving as mine clearing ships as well. Currently Elbe is stationed in Estonia, with other two units being either in dock or still in trials after overhauls.

Note: This model is recommended to be used in the 1/2000 scale. The models itself isnt scaled, the scale table is down below.

1/4000: 2,5cm or 0.98in

1/3000: 3,3cm or 1.3in

1/2000: 5cm or 1.97in

1/1000: 10cm or 3.93in

For self calculation: The Elbe is roughly 100m or 329ft long.

The model is intended to be used with little supports as possible, yet some are recommended below the crane and overhangs on the bridge. I recommend using a resin printer for this. Up and Downsclaling might be possible, yet I dont know to what extend.