1/200 A-26 BLEKINGE CLASS SUBMARINE: VLS VARIANTS MODEL

The Blekinge class is a class of Next Generation submarines for the Swedish Navy. These feature a modular design and Air-Independent propulsion along with a built-in capability of ing special operations forces via a "multi-mission portal".

Three variants of the submarine are offered for export, namely, Pelagic, Oceanic and Oceanic-ER. Here, the model of Oceanic-ER variant is provided with VLS module for 18 tomahawk cruise missiles (each silo contains six missiles). Two variants are provided, one with sail at the center of the submarine and other with sail near the forward end of the submarine.

Following files are provided:
1. Model without masts for each of above-mentioned variants.
2. Masts (recommended to be printed separately). Same for all the variants.
3. Combined guide models file for placement of masts at correct positions. This model is not recommended for printing since the thin masts may not come out well and may break. One may also consider using metal wire in place of very thin pieces on masts. Just cut-out the thin part, drill a hole in its place, glue a straight piece of wire in its place, carefully keeping the length of the mast.
4. Right-handed and Left-Handed propellers (in separate files). Either of them can be used with the submarine. Glue a 3mm rod into the slot provided in the propeller hub. And insert the other end (preferably after applying some lube oil) into the long slot provided in the submarine hull.

This is highly detailed model and can also be used at larger scales (e.g. 1/72 or 1/48). At larger scales the lines on the hull might be a bit too heavily pronounced. This can be countered by using a slight amount of horizontal expansion. Some amount of horizontal expansion might anyway be needed if using FDM.

NOTE: This is only a scaled down dummy model of the submarine for display purposes. No working parts are present.

NOTE: This creation is exclusively reserved for personal use and its redistribution or resale in the original or any modified form, is strictly prohibited. Commercial use of model or its derivatives including but not limited to physical models is prohibited. Click (C) symbol for details of the license

Thank you

Different printer settings may be suited for different printers. Following settings used by me are just provided for reference.

I used following settings:
Layer height = 0.15mm
Infill = 5% (Gyroid)
Horizontal expansion = 0.00 mm
Print speed = 50 mm/s
Build plate adhesion = Skirt (I manually modelled the brim of 0.30 mm height while slicing the model for printing)

NOTE: IF USING FDM, SOME AMOUNT OF HORIZONTAL EXPANSION IS NECESSARY AT ALL SCALES TO ENSURE PRINTABILITY OF SMALL EDGES/FEATURES, WHICH ARE UNAVOIDABLE FOR REALISTIC APPEARANCE AT ALL SCALES