Type 055 Destroyer Nanchang 1: 700 sphyrna tp7001

Plastic model kit: PLAN Type 055 Destroyer Nanchang 1:700 Sphyrna TP7001

The PLAN Type 055 Destroyer Nanchang model kit in 1:700 scale from Sphyrna (TP7001) is an excellent choice for model enthusiasts and fans of modern warships. This detailed model represents the Nanchang destroyer, which is one of the most advanced ships in service with the People's Liberation Army Navy.

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:700
• Manufacturer: Sphyrna
• Catalog number: TP7001
• Material: Plastic
• Type: Model kit

Ship Nanchang (101): Nanchang is the first ship of the Type 055 destroyer series, which are among the largest and most technologically advanced units in the Chinese fleet. The ship was launched in December 2014 at the Jiangnan Shipyard in Shanghai and officially entered service on January 12, 2020. Nanchang made its public debut during the 70th anniversary parade of the PLAN on April 23, 2019.

Development and design: The first interest in a large destroyer by the People's Liberation Army Navy dates back to the late 1960s. The development program, designated "055," began in 1976 but was halted in 1983 due to technical issues and insufficient industrial development. It wasn't until 2014 that images of a full-size model of the Type 055 superstructure emerged, marking the beginning of a new era in Chinese shipbuilding.

Mission and tasks: The Type 055 destroyers, including Nanchang, are intended for expeditionary missions and serve as the main escorts for Chinese aircraft carriers. The United States classifies these units as cruisers, suggesting that they are meant to perform a similar role to American Ticonderoga-class cruisers.

Service and operations: Nanchang was the first Type 055 destroyer to participate in an aircraft carrier group, which included the aircraft carrier Liaoning and other units such as the Chengdu and Taiyuan destroyers, the Huanggang frigate, and the fast combat support ship Hulunhu. This group was spotted between Okinawa and Miyako Island on April 5, 2021. Additionally, on May 22, 2022, Nanchang participated in exercises in the East China Sea as part of the Liaoning aircraft carrier group.

Assembly and painting kit. Does not include paints or glue. Assembly requires separately sold modeling tools (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.