Plan Type 091/092 Nuclear Power Submarine 1: 700 sphyrna tp7002

Plastic model kit: PLAN Type 091/092 Nuclear Power Submarine 1:700 Sphyrna TP7002

We present a plastic model kit in 1:700 scale, which replicates the Chinese nuclear submarine Type 091, also known as the Han class. This is an excellent proposition for modeling enthusiasts and naval history buffs who wish to expand their collection with a model of the first Chinese nuclear submarine.

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:700
• Manufacturer: Sphyrna
• Catalog number: TP7002

History and technical background:

The Type 091, known in NATO nomenclature as the Han class, is the first Chinese nuclear submarine that was commissioned into the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN). It was also the first nuclear submarine produced in Asia. The construction program for these units, known as "Project 09," was approved by the Central Military Commission and Mao Zedong in July 1958. Despite difficulties related to the Great Leap Forward and the priority given to the nuclear weapons program, the project was resumed in 1965 after the first test of Chinese nuclear weapons.

The first submarine, hull number 401, was commissioned in August 1974, and the second, hull number 402, in December 1980. The initial units had issues with the reliability of the propulsion system and radiation shielding. Subsequent units, hull numbers 403, 404, and 405, were modernized, which included lengthening the hull and using more efficient reactors.

Technical characteristics:

The Type 091 features a teardrop-shaped hull, which is typical for submarines of this period. However, compared to Soviet nuclear submarines from the 1950s and 1960s, Chinese units were noisier and had inferior sensors. Initially, they were armed only with torpedoes, and it was not until 1989 that they were equipped with Yu-3 torpedoes. In later years, these units were modernized, which included the use of anechoic tiles, improvements to sensors and fire control systems, and the addition of YJ-82 anti-ship missiles.

Historical significance:

The Type 091 played a significant role in the development of the Chinese navy, being the first step towards building modern nuclear-powered submarines. Despite its limitations, such as noise and low speed, these units were an important element of China's defense strategy. In the 1990s, one of the submarines of this class tracked the American aircraft carrier group Kitty Hawk, leading to international tensions.

Assembly and painting kit. Does not include paints or glue. For assembly, separately sold modeling tools are needed (including cutters, files, tweezers), paints, brushes, and plastic model glue (e.g., Tamiya Extra Thin Cement). The photo shows a professionally assembled and painted model.