Starting the first streamlined US nuclear submarine build of the Skipjack class. I probably get asked for these from local submarine veterans more than any other SSN.
The photos are from the first (1/144) prototype print, about 21" in length. Since then, several changes have been made and once I finish modeling the final details of the outboard hull openings, I’ll print another prototype before moving on to the sail, masts and antennas, which are the visual hook where submarines are concerned, and the highlight of any submarine build.
Note: The towed array stowage tube, (added in the '70’s) was deformed where it meets its two support struts. That was one of the first mods done after the first print.
In 1/144 scale, the details are easy to miss unless you get close; in 1/72, they are very prominent.
