Trafalgar Class Build

As someone who mainly deals with aircraft - I sometimes feel it's a good thing to take the occasional foray into other model types. Having been a while since undertaking a ship model - I had a look at the 'stash' (that pile of un-built model kits on the shelf which seems to grow steadily bigger no matter many you build!). I had two options - a 1/350 Airfix Trafalgar Submarine or the rather large 1/400 Revell model of the Titanic.

Given that the workbench was cluttered enough as it was (and the difficulties with the domestic authorities in this regard) - I decided to leave the ocean liner and go for the sub.

Currently the only submarine model in Airfix's lineup as of 2014 - this model builds up into a good depiction of the prototype. Online reference photographs were somewhat thin on the ground - only showing the class when in the water and thus hiding anything below the waterline. However, since most of the still highly-classified bits and bobs tend to be under the waterline (hydrophones, active sonar arrays, etc.) - it is perhaps understandable that the RN don't want too much detail pasted on Google Images!

The model was relatively easy to assemble - much more so than I was expecting. The hull itself is made up of three parts which bond together to make the familiar teardrop profile of most modern subs. The kit allows the sub to be modelled with antennas and periscopes extended/retracted; as well as the hydroplanes stowed or deployed. I decided to have all of the masts and planes deployed. Crucially, since this would be finished as a 'display' item - the finish would be pristine (no weathering).

Here is the model just after spraying with the trusty airbrush. Humbrol Matte Black was used - lots of thin coats being progressively added to build up the opacity of the paintwork while preserving the fine recessed detail on the top 'deck' of the sub. The viewing stand was airbrushed in the same colour to match. At this point you could be forgiven for leaving it 'as-is' - since this how most Trafalgars appear to the casual viewer when in the water.

Now with transfers applied and masts fitted - the finished article! Now on to the MiG-29UB (which can be seen lurking in the background waiting for some decals).