Virginia-Class Nuclear Attack Submarine – 1-Meter High-Detail 3D Printable Model

Experience the pinnacle of modern submarine warfare with this meticulously detailed 1-meter 3D printable model of the Virginia-class nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN-774). As the U.S. Navy's most advanced and numerous active submarine class, the Virginia-class represents a revolution in stealth technology, multi-mission capability, and undersea dominance.
Commissioned since 2004 to replace the aging Los Angeles-class fleet, these submarines are designed for the post-Cold War era, excelling in both deep-ocean anti-submarine warfare and shallow-water littoral operations. With 22 submarines delivered and production continuing through 2043, the Virginia-class will remain the backbone of American undersea superiority well into the 2070s.
Technical Specifications of the Real Submarine:

Length: 377 feet (115 meters)
Beam: 33 feet (10 meters)
Displacement: Approximately 7,800 tons submerged
Speed: 25+ knots (28+ mph)
Crew: 132 personnel (15 officers, 117 enlisted)
Propulsion: One S9G nuclear reactor, one shaft
Armament:

4x 533mm torpedo tubes (Mk 48 ADCAP torpedoes)
12x Vertical Launch System tubes (Tomahawk cruise missiles)
Block V variants: Virginia Payload Module (VPM) with 4 additional large-diameter tubes (up to 40 Tomahawks total)
Harpoon anti-ship missiles, advanced mobile mines

Key Innovations:

Photonics Mast: Revolutionary camera-based imaging system replacing traditional periscopes
Fly-by-Wire Control: Advanced ship control system for superior shallow-water handling
BQQ-10 Sonar Suite: State-of-the-art detection with bow spherical array, flank arrays, and towed array
Special Operations Support: Reconfigurable torpedo room and lock-out chamber for SEAL team deployment
Stealth Design: HY-100 steel double-hull construction optimized for acoustic signature reduction

3D Model Features:
This highly detailed 1-meter model captures the Virginia-class in exceptional accuracy, offering modular construction for maximum versatility and display options.
What Makes This Model Special:

Modular Design Philosophy: Build multiple Virginia-class variants representing different Block configurations (I through V)
Configurable Weapon Systems: Choose between VLS tubes or large-diameter Virginia Payload Tubes (VPTs)
Functional Missile Hatches: Optional opening or permanently sealed silo hatches with hinge mechanisms
Variable Hull Lengths: Construct standard Block I-IV configurations or extended Block V submarines with Virginia Payload Module
Special Forces Capability: Includes detailed mini-submarine (Dry Deck Shelter) for SEAL operations
Multiple Display Options: Three different display stand configurations included
Control Surface Articulation: Separate dive planes (bow and stern) and rudder components
Realistic Propulsion: Detailed propeller with optional shaft or mounting hole configurations

File Contents (41 STL Files):

Modular hull sections (8 pieces - upper and lower)
Bow sections with/without vertical launch missiles
Missile silo hatches (2 types) with functional hinge axes
Nose cone configurations (standard and missile-equipped)
Tail cone and propeller assembly
Dive planes (4 pieces - front left/right, rear left/right)
Periscope masts (5 variations) plus radar and snorkel
Mini-submarine (upper and lower hull)
Display stands (3 configurations)
Propeller guard and rudder components

Printing Specifications:

Optimized for: Standard FDM printers (220×220×250mm build volume minimum)
Recommended Layer Height: 0.12-0.2mm for optimal detail
Support Required: Minimal - most parts designed for support-free printing
Assembly: Precision-fit components with alignment features
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Estimated Print Time: 80-120 hours (depending on settings and configuration)
Material Recommendation: PLA, PETG, or ABS; black or dark gray for authentic appearance

Build Options:

Display Model: Fully assembled static model with open or closed hatches
Block Variant Selection: Build Block I/II (12 VLS tubes), Block III/IV (2 VPTs), or Block V (with extended VPM section)
RC Conversion Ready: Modular sections designed to accommodate waterproofing and internal components
Educational Cutaway: Display with removable upper hull to show internal missile configuration

Historical Context:
The Virginia-class program represents one of the most successful naval procurement efforts in modern history, consistently delivered under budget and ahead of schedule. Originally developed under the codename "Centurion," these submarines were the first U.S. warships designed entirely using 3D visualization technology (CATIA), revolutionizing naval architecture.
Notable Achievements:

First commissioned: USS Virginia (SSN-774) in October 2004
Most numerous active submarine class globally (as of July 2025)
Selected by Australia under AUKUS agreement for Royal Australian Navy
Recipient of the David Packard Excellence in Acquisition Award (1996, 1998, 2008)

Mission Capabilities:

Anti-submarine warfare (ASW)
Anti-surface warfare (ASuW)
Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR)
Special operations support
Strike warfare (land attack with Tomahawk missiles)
Mine warfare and deployment
Battle group operations

Perfect For:

Military history enthusiasts and submarine collectors
Naval architecture students and educators
RC submarine builders seeking authentic scale platforms
Museum display and educational exhibits
Advanced 3D printing challenges
STEM education programs
Diorama and scale model builders

Designer Notes:
This model represents months of research and refinement, incorporating authentic Virginia-class features while optimizing for 3D printing. The modular design allows you to customize your build based on your interests—whether you want a museum-quality display piece, an RC conversion platform, or an educational cross-section model.
Every detail has been carefully considered: the photonics mast configurations reflect different Block variants, the missile silos feature realistic hinge mechanisms, and the hull sections include authentic sonar array housings. The optional mini-submarine attachment represents the Dry Deck Shelter used for covert SEAL team deployments, adding another layer of operational realism.

Please Note: This is a scale model for educational, display, and hobbyist purposes. All dimensions and details are based on publicly available information about the Virginia-class submarine program.