This model represents HMS Astute, lead boat of the Royal Navy’s Astute-class nuclear-powered attack submarines, built in 1/350 scale and finished using acrylics with oils applied for subtle, realistic weathering. As with all of my submarine builds, the model is displayed on a standardized, hand-cut hardwood base painted to resemble a miniature slipway, ensuring uniform presentation throughout the collection.
The display base incorporates three reference elements: the national flag of origin, a 1/350 scale human figure positioned just above and to the right of the flag for size comparison, and a QR code that can be scanned with a cellphone camera (see the side-view photo) to access additional historical and technical information about the submarine.
The Astute-class represents the most advanced attack submarines ever operated by the Royal Navy. Designed to replace the Trafalgar-class, these boats feature a fully nuclear-powered propulsion system that eliminates the need for refueling over the submarine’s service life, significantly increasing operational endurance and flexibility. HMS Astute was commissioned in 2010 and marked a major leap forward in British undersea warfare capability.
Equipped with advanced sonar systems, modern combat management architecture, and the ability to deploy both Spearfish heavyweight torpedoes and Tomahawk land-attack cruise missiles, the Astute-class is optimized for intelligence gathering, anti-submarine warfare, surface strike, and support of special forces operations. Extreme emphasis was placed on acoustic stealth, making these submarines among the quietest in the world.
Weathering on this model was deliberately restrained to reflect a modern, well-maintained frontline submarine rather than a heavily worn hull. The focus was placed on capturing the clean geometry, sail profile, and overall proportions characteristic of contemporary nuclear attack submarines, allowing the design sophistication of the Astute-class to remain the visual focal point.
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