1/700 Riich Model Ships

Riich Models: Precision Naval Modeling Excellence

Riich Models has established a reputation for producing highly detailed scale model kits that push the boundaries of injection-molded plastic technology, and their naval offerings exemplify this commitment to accuracy and innovation. The 1/700 Russian Project 955 Borei Class SSBN (27001) represents one of the most sophisticated submarine designs in modern naval warfare, and Riich's kit captures the vessel's distinctive features with remarkable fidelity. The Borei class, also known as Dolgorukiy class, serves as Russia's primary sea-based nuclear deterrent, carrying up to sixteen Bulava submarine-launched ballistic missiles. Riich's engineering team has meticulously researched the submarine's external configuration, resulting in a kit that accurately depicts the smooth hydrodynamic hull form, retractable diving planes, pump-jet propulsion system, and the characteristic raised missile compartment that distinguishes this class from earlier Soviet designs. The kit includes photo-etched brass components for railings, periscopes, and antenna arrays, elevating the level of detail beyond what injection molding alone can achieve.

Building Modern Submarine Models in 1/700 Scale

Working with 1/700 scale submarine kits presents unique challenges and opportunities compared to surface vessel modeling, as the streamlined hull forms and minimal superstructure require different techniques to achieve convincing results. The Borei class submarine's smooth, teardrop-shaped hull benefits from careful seam work and progressive sanding to eliminate any trace of the centerline joint that would destroy the illusion of a seamless pressure hull. Riich's precision molding minimizes this challenge, but modelers should still plan for careful dry-fitting and test assembly before committing to permanent bonds. The kit's photo-etched components demand patience and appropriate tools, including sharp hobby knives for removing parts from frets, cyanoacrylate adhesive formulated for metal-to-plastic bonds, and fine tweezers for positioning delicate railings and antenna elements. Painting modern Russian submarines typically involves various shades of black and dark gray, with subtle weathering to suggest operational wear without overdoing effects that would be minimal on vessels designed to operate silently beneath the waves. The anechoic coating tiles that cover the hull to reduce sonar detection can be suggested through careful masking and airbrushing techniques that create subtle panel variations. For modelers seeking to expand their submarine modeling skills, our 1/700 Trumpeter and 1/700 Zvezda collections offer additional Soviet and Russian submarine subjects.

Understanding the Borei Class Strategic Deterrent

The Project 955 Borei class represents a significant advancement in Russian submarine design, incorporating lessons learned from decades of Cold War submarine development while embracing modern technologies and construction methods. Development began in the 1990s to replace aging Delta and Typhoon class ballistic missile submarines, with the lead vessel Yuri Dolgorukiy commissioned in 2013. The class features a double-hull design with an inner pressure hull constructed from high-strength steel, surrounded by an outer hydrodynamic hull that houses ballistic tanks, equipment, and the anechoic coating system. The pump-jet propulsion system reduces acoustic signature compared to traditional propellers, making these submarines among the quietest in the Russian fleet. The sixteen-tube missile compartment occupies the forward section of the hull, an unusual configuration compared to Western designs that typically place missiles aft of the sail. This arrangement influenced the submarine's distinctive profile, with a raised deck section that Riich's kit accurately captures. Understanding these design features enhances the modeling experience, as builders can appreciate the engineering compromises and innovations that shaped the vessel's appearance. Reference materials and historical documentation help modelers make informed decisions about weathering, markings, and display options that reflect the submarine's operational context.

Expanding Your Naval Modeling Collection

While this collection currently focuses on the Borei class submarine, Riich Models' broader catalog includes additional naval subjects and military vehicles that demonstrate their engineering capabilities. Modelers interested in Riich's approach to scale modeling can explore our 1/35 Riich Models Military Vehicles, 1/35 Riich Models Tanks, and 1/35 Riich Scale Model Figures collections, which showcase similar attention to detail and historical accuracy in different scales and subjects. For naval modelers working in larger scales, our 1/350 Riich Model Ships collection offers increased detail and size for those with display space and patience for more complex builds. The 1/700 scale remains ideal for building comprehensive naval task forces or historical fleet compositions, as the compact size allows multiple vessels to be displayed together in realistic formations. Complementary manufacturers in our 1/700 naval catalog include Tamiya, Fujimi, and Pontos, each bringing unique subjects and engineering approaches to waterline and full-hull ship modeling. Additional detailing options are available through our Riich aftermarket parts collection. Whether you're building a modern Russian submarine fleet or exploring the evolution of naval warfare technology, Riich Models provides the foundation for creating accurate, detailed representations that honor the engineering achievements of contemporary naval architecture.