Model Boat Mayhem

The Shipyard ( Dry Dock ): Builds & Questions => Navy - Military - Battleships: => Topic started by: NavyShooter on January 02, 2026, 06:18:12 pm

Title: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 02, 2026, 06:18:12 pm: Ahoy gents,

I'm doing a serial set of Type 26 Destroyers (RCN/Canadian type - ish) that are 3D printed.

I first came across the file set last year on CGTrader. I paid the $25 for it, and somewhat regretted it. The seller indicated that it was not suitable for R/C, but I decided to try anyhow....and he was right....it's not suitable. The details are wrong for the RCN version - missile layouts are incorrect, superstructure is incorrect - particularly the main mast.

https://www.cgtrader.com/3d-print-models/hobby-diy/hobby-accessories/type-26-city-class-frigate-3d-print-model (https://www.cgtrader.com/3d-print-models/hobby-diy/hobby-accessories/type-26-city-class-frigate-3d-print-model)

The designer is not a ship modeler, and is not well versed in what an RC model needs to have - the hull is very thin, the superstructure is not designed to be easily removed with a raised lip to keep water out, there's no shaft line holes, nor rudder holes. Overall, it is not well suited to make a good physical model with.

The designer also used a program to generate the files that leaves triangular facets on the model. Everywhere. Large triangles, small triangles...it's not a smooth hull at all. It's very blocky.

All that said, I printed the first one because - y'know, why not....and it's now turning into a serial production line.

The first one is, as of today, effectively complete. I'm going to add a maple leaf decal on the funnel, and a hull number, but once that's done, the model is headed to the Commanding Officer's office at Base Logistics in Halifax. She saw it during her tour of the base and I offered it to her - in part to make other units jealous....in part because she's good people and is my boss in my day job, so yeah.

Here's some images of the first one being built. You can see that in the first image it has the RN style mast as opposed to the RCN one, so I went into TinkerCAD and made a "Canadian" mast. Even though the final version isn't decided on yet for the RCN. This is...closer.

You can see the quantity of bondo putty that I had to add to the hull to attempt to fix some of the faceting. Looks better, but basically used 2 tubes of putty to get here.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 02, 2026, 06:25:20 pm: The amount of sanding and filling to get the hull looking vaguely acceptable was...lots. So some of the surface detail is lost, and due to how thin the doors of the boat/multi mission bay were, I ended up puttying them over to fill the area in. Maybe I'll outline the doors with a decal to make it appear to be there. Hrm. Yeah.

I went to TinkerCAD and made a display mount for the model as well - fairly simple to do.

Then I pulled all the files into TinkerCAD and did some magic tricks to take the very thin hull, and thicken it up to print Version 2.

I corrected a few things in the design as well, and, while I was painting/finishing up V1, I started printing V2.

We won't talk about how much sanding I ended up doing on V1, but, due to how thin some parts of the hull were, I was unable to pre-sand anything, and could only sand the putty I put on top. Even so, I sanded through the plastic in a couple of spots and had to do some backfilling and repairs.

In the end, priming and painting turned out OK.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 02, 2026, 06:28:53 pm: With the hull thickened, and a new model printing in the background, I took advantage of some slow times at work to push the first version through my production line and get her finished up. She's basically done as of today, needing a maple leaf on the funnel, a hull number, and maybe a decal to represent the bay doors.

Note - the helicopter is also fully 3D printed.

Also, the armament on the V1 isn't exactly right - the 20mm CIWS is likely to be replaced by SEA RAM and the Harpoons should actually be the Naval Strike Missile.

I didn't have access to 3D print files for either of those though, so I went with CIWS and Harpoon.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 02, 2026, 06:31:30 pm: Remember how I said I didn't have access to SEA RAM or NSM?

I decided to design a NSM and I released the file this week in case any of you need a NSM for your building projects:

1/144 Scale RGM-184A Naval Strike Missile - Free 3D Print Model - MakerWorld (https://makerworld.com/en/models/2181616-1-144-scale-rgm-184a-naval-strike-missile)

It's pretty finnicky to get the supports off in 1/144 scale, but it works.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 02, 2026, 06:36:23 pm: And, since I mention serial production, here's a picture of V2 taken last week alongside V1 after I glued up the hull for V2.

V1 was printed of PLA since I had that onhand.

V2 is printed from PETG.

That said, once I was into the process of printing V2, I realized that I can probably make it an R/C suitable model with a bit more 3D work.

So.

Off to TinkerCAD again for a few (quite a few) hours of puttering about with the files, and I have now got a sample set of T26 print files ready to go for an R/C Version.

The R/C version has an open top designed to have the entire superstructure come up and off, with a raised lip to keep water out, and a removable flight deck hatch to enable access to the rudders.

It's not perfect - far from it - the faceting on the hull is still very pronounced, particularly at the bow, but it's going to go to print once my new printer shows up in a week or so.

Oh, and for printers, I've got a pair of Prusa Mk3S/+ that I've used to make these so far.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 02, 2026, 06:41:13 pm: So, that leads to the 'serial production' point - how many of these is NavyShooter going to build?

Well, at least 3.

V1 - Commanding Officer

V2 - Local Shop

V3 - Home - R/C

V4 - TBD

Depending on how things go with the one for the CO, there may end up being a demand for more, and, I've been the guy who's put the model ships in the pond at the Halifax Public Gardens for the past 2 years here in Nova Scotia, with a 1/100 Titanic and a 1/48 Sackville and 1/48 St Thomas gracing my build slips, and the pond.

I may scale this up to 1/100 with the new printer, and put one together for display in the Public Gardens. We'll see.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 02, 2026, 06:47:50 pm: Oh, and for V3 - the RC version that I'm going to build, I'm working on a functional VLS system.

I did some figuring and using the smallest 1/4A Estes model rocket engines that are 13mm diameter, you can just about fit a 14.5mm rocket in an '8 pack' MK 41 VLS cell at 1/144 scale. Instead of 8 doors opening, it'll have one door flap open with the 8 missile hatches on top.

This is a 'maybe' project - I've put a bit of effort into it already, and have to put it on hold until I get some new engine ignitors next week hopefully.

Imagine a 3 pack of VLS rockets that can be swapped out after firing in less than a minute when the ship is dockside.

I found a model rocket calculator program online to run some pre-launch numbers for me:

Model Rocket Maximum Altitude, Acceleration and Velocity Calculator • Model Rockets • Online Unit Converters (https://www.translatorscafe.com/unit-converter/en-US/calculator/rocket-max-altitude/)

It lets you calculate based on known info and known engine performance stats, how well the rocket will perform.

Based on what I plugged in, the rocket I've designed will fly a maximum of 6 meters up - if it actually stabilizes out of the tube (unlikely) so it'll go up a max of about 20 feet or so - which is actually acceptable to me. 🙂

Firing from the ship in the pond will be planned to happen beyond that 'theoretical' effective range.

The rockets cost about $0.18 each to print - so I'm not worried about recovering them much. The igniters almost cost as much as the motors....I'm not certain if the rockets will be stable, but with the small launch motor impulse, and the max range of 6 meters, I figure firing it well away from the dock will be OK. :-)
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: ballastanksian on January 02, 2026, 07:16:57 pm: Top marks for perseverance Navy Shooter! There does see to be an element of experimentation with printing, it's not a plug and play, especially if you did not draw the designs yourself, you cannot guarantee the quality. But taking a blocky chunk to the point where you can likely sail it is impressive.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 02, 2026, 08:01:03 pm: Thanks!

Here's V2 with a pile of putty on the hull currently drying.

The good news with this one was that I was actually able to do some sanding on the hull even before the first coat of primer/putty because I was able to make the hull about 100% thicker than on V1.

I am less worried about sanding through the hull side on this one.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: ballastanksian on January 02, 2026, 10:55:57 pm: Good show! That is serious progress as you also know there is more structural meat in the hull.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 03, 2026, 07:38:38 pm: I've been puttering about this morning with the 3D design for the R/C version, and have actually had contact with the gent from the UK who originally commissioned the designer linked above to create the files I'm working with.

We had a good chat by messenger this morning, turns out he's in the RN, and might be visiting Halifax mid-year with his ship - if so, I'll synch up with him in person. :-)

That said, since he was the guy who originally commissioned the files, he did some research into the re-use of them, and posed this question and got this answer from CGTrader:

"I had someone create me a project which they are then selling themself.

I have since had someone make major changes to the files to make them better, can I list these files myself as the files before were not at the correct standard?"

The CGTrader response to him:

"Yes, you can list the modified files your-self. If you have made significant changes to the original project files, you have the right to sell the improved version as your own. Just ensure that the modifications are substantial enough to differentiate it from the original work. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask. Have a great day!"

So.

Based on that, it looks like I might be able to actually list the R/C Version of the T26 for sale myself.

We'll see how that goes...
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 04, 2026, 09:30:47 pm: I decided to print some decals to add to both the ship and the helo.

This should do for V1, V2 and perhaps even V3.

I've decided to call V1 HMCS Fraser - DDH 240

V2 will be HMCS Mackenzie - DDH 241

V3 will be HMCS Gatineau - named and numbered off my first ship - HMCS Gatineau DDE 236

:-)

There are no publicly released hull numbers yet, so this is guess-work.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 05, 2026, 03:34:38 pm: Decals applied and clear-coated this morning.

HMCS FRASER, DDH 240 is now complete.

There are some inaccuracies - the Harpoon and CIWS will be replaced with NSM and SEA RAM on the next hull. I'm also working on updated antenna layouts based on some sketches I found.

We'll see how it goes, but I'm pleased to have this one clear of the work-bench and tomorrow I'll have it down to HMC Dockyard for delivery to the CO.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: derekwarner on January 06, 2026, 09:41:04 am: Is that light blue below the waterline a TBTO? ......[tri-butyl tin-oxide] self-polishing co-polymer [man that was mouthful :o ]

Our RAN use these systems [pinks & turquoises], however the final coat is always Australian..... AS ??? grey

We experienced safety issues with the TBTO lot, however due to in adequate safety precautions......thankfully, I was never exposed to this

Derek
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 06, 2026, 11:34:50 am: Here's a picture I took a few years ago with HMCS Charlottetown up in the slips, Montreal off on the right, and Athabaskan on the left - had my 1:1 scale boat out for a bit.

I sailed on all 3 ships, so it was a great picture to get!

The blue is 'close' to the right shade. I understand it is some form of epoxy paint. Once upon a time on CHA they rushed a paint job in refit, and decided to put the ship back in the water on a Friday instead of a Monday, reducing the cure time on the paint. They 'accepted the risk'....as they 'had' to get another ship up in the synchrolift.

Fast forward 3 months, and literal sheets of paint are peeling off the sides of the ship - they started calling us the leopard due to all the spots.

Ship ended up needing to get pulled out and completely repainted again.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 08, 2026, 12:06:02 am: Ship 1 is out of the build yard, delivered to a grateful Commanding Officer who is looking forward to showing it off to the "Gawkers" that will be visiting her office in the near future to look at it.

Ship 2 has now moved into the building slips.

She's been given her first layer of primer, first coating of putty, second brush/acetone coating of putty.

Sanded. Primed again. More putty.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 08, 2026, 12:07:28 am: And, at the end of day today, she's been fine sanded and I got one more layer of primer laid on.

I'm generally pleased with how she looks in terms of getting the facets smoothed out.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: ballastanksian on January 08, 2026, 10:15:24 pm: You can see the improvements in each hull! Brilliant.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 09, 2026, 06:01:21 pm: Someone forwarded me a brochure for the RCD showing the latest version of the mast, so I spent a bit of time redoing the mast to the 'current' version:
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 09, 2026, 06:03:33 pm: I also got around to doing the blue paint on the hull - the splash of gloss paint showed up some flaws, so....back to putty and sanding before a second coat of blue.

My new model rocket igniters showed up yesterday, so I'll be puttering around with the VLS design again this weekend for the R/C version. If I can get one of my minions to assist me with filming, we might even see a launch or two.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: ballastanksian on January 09, 2026, 09:01:12 pm: Given you have been fettling 3d prints, you have done well just to need that amount of post coating remedial work. Looking fab mate :)
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 10, 2026, 10:08:30 pm: I had someone point out to me that the 20mm Phalanx CIWS is the wrong fit for the ship, and so is the 22 shot SeaRAM launcher I printed.

Turns out the correct version is the 11 shot launcher with the Radome.

So. Off to some 3D design software, and here we are. Available for free download now from Makerworld if you want to make one yourself. :-)
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: ballastanksian on January 11, 2026, 10:42:15 pm: Cor! They look brilliant matey.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 15, 2026, 09:15:47 pm: Alrighty....

V2 has her decks painted, and some of her detail bits have been glued on.

She's ready for decals tomorrow.

:-)
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: frogman3 on January 31, 2026, 09:51:06 am: HI Sir there are no pics to see ?
chrisb :((
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: Rob47 on January 31, 2026, 12:18:26 pm: Images not showing
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 31, 2026, 02:12:09 pm: I'm aware - I tried to attach a couple of them again yesterday now that the site is back online, but it didn't work.

The error I get is:

"The attachments upload directory is not writeable. Your attachment or avatar cannot be saved."

I suspect this is from the server being offline - I just tried again and it still failed.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: Martin (Admin) on January 31, 2026, 04:45:40 pm: Test Photo ....
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 31, 2026, 10:12:11 pm: The pictures have returned....!

Thank-you Martin!

Here is the complete model of HMCS Mackenzie - DDH 241
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 31, 2026, 10:14:14 pm: Here she is all boxed up for presentation to the RCN Command Chief last week:

He was very appreciative, and she made the trip on the plane up to Ottawa in good condition!
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 31, 2026, 10:16:29 pm: And....the R/C version is in progress as well.

My new Bambu printer has arrived, and so the hull is now on the printer.

In the background, here is a video test from the functional rocket launcher I'm planning to install in the VLS cell pack:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ipROdunnYY (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ipROdunnYY)
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 31, 2026, 10:23:15 pm: Here's a short video showing some of the VLS details:

In short - each 8 pack 'section' of the MK-41 VLS is going to be made into a single hatch/door, and the missile/rocket is about 15mm in diameter with tiny fins that will stabilize it a bit. Fits a standard Estes A size engine.

RC Type 26 Destroyer VLS system test (https://www.youtube.com/shorts/8t4U-W1CGOU)

The doors of the VLS are designed to just flap open when the rocket is fired.

There's a brass sheet in the bottom of the launch/J-tube to direct the blast up the vent to the side of the launch tube.

The 3 pack of missiles in the space of a 24 set of VLS is designed to be quick removable - so I can bring the boat alongside, pull out the flat-pack of 3 cells, and switch out for a new set of 3 missiles.

The test prints were all done in black PETG, I've since gone cheaper for the missiles, and they're printed of white PLA.

One of the test missiles was fired with the door open, and it seemed to go up about 60-80 feet or so, almost straight up.

The second test-shot was fired with the door closed - it opened the door, and the rocket went up about 30-40 feet, went sideways about 30 feet, and I think that's because the door was a bit sticky.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 31, 2026, 10:25:43 pm: Also - my new props showed up for the T26 - made by Keith Bender in the US.

Quite pleased - $45 each, custom made with a 2mm thread and 28mm diameter.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on January 31, 2026, 11:13:29 pm: And....one more update...here is V3 - the first R/C version on the printer right now. Almost finished printing!
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on February 02, 2026, 04:34:49 pm: OK,

The props certainly look the part. And I've got the 4 main hull modules assembled as of this morning, with 2 of the 4 superstructure modules printed and ready to go.

I've got another project on the printers tonight, so the rest of the superstructure will be delayed by a day or so...not a big deal.

The new print files are looking pretty good - some minor adjustments needed for fit, and they will still need a lot of sanding to smooth out the facets, but I'm generally pleased with how things look so far.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: Akira on February 02, 2026, 11:40:55 pm: These are looking great. I wish that I had the "time" to learn CAD and 3D machines. Mastering my browser is a challenge.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: ballastanksian on February 05, 2026, 12:03:31 am: From experience they are an ongoing learning curve especially if the printer is at the cheaper end. They become obsolescent quite quickly, though that only matters of you are printing professionally. Be prepared to problem solve is my advice. They are not plug and play.

Looking great there matey! Those props are beautiful, I can see why they were pricey (assuming that is a high end price for a model propeller??)

The VLS system was very impressive, I did wonder if a similar system could be used for gun fire, An issue could be debris falling from the sky, burning or otherwise.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on February 07, 2026, 02:24:33 pm: So, the existing 3D file for free download for the S-92 Cyclone doesn't really look the part....so I did some minor modifications to the model and added nose sensors, the big Radar underneath, and the torpedo fins.

I also thought about how I want the helo presented, and decided to put one in the mission bay....to a certain extent. The way I understand things is that the mission bay is actually directly connected to the hangar/flight deck.

So. I put the nose of one helo into the mission bay.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on February 07, 2026, 02:32:52 pm: I also spent some time on Friday sanding the hull (80 grit) to smooth off some of the faceting.

Then she got her first layer of fiberglass resin.

I am suspicious that she'll take 2-3 layers of resin.

The previous models have only used putty and paint - this one is going to hit the pond, so she needs the extra strength and sealing.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on February 12, 2026, 11:45:20 am: Additional layer of putty and a second coat of Resin has been applied after some sanding.

Starting to get there!
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: Backerther on February 12, 2026, 01:45:57 pm: Are you doing these intensive putty and resin application to avoid the water soak mainly or else ?
I did not use resin application at all in my previous 3D model...

Kiyo
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on February 12, 2026, 10:09:22 pm: The putty is to smooth the (many) imperfections on the hull. I am looking for a nice smooth hull, and the presence of the many facets from the 3D design bother me....so...putty, sanding, and sealing with resin.

Here she is this afternoon after a 4th coat of resin. Compare to the earlier photo of the bow.

I expect tomorrow I'll switch to 150 grit sandpaper from the 80 grit, and I'll end up going down from there....probably primer tomorrow late in the day.

We'll see.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: Backerther on February 13, 2026, 12:27:04 am: My JS Maya does have so many facets too, contrary to my previous super Guardian class patrol boat.... {:-{
I wonder if I also have to do such an intensive puttying and resin application....especially resin application which I have never done before in my model ship building.. But no problems were found in sailing at all....
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on February 13, 2026, 01:04:16 am: Backerther,

I think that's the key - 'no problems were found in sailing it at all' - if there's no problems, then it's not a problem.

If you're happy with the looks of the model (and I think you are) then it's not a problem you have to solve.

In my case, I want the smooth flowing lines of a ship's hull, and while I recognize that the print files didn't have that, I do have the ability to make the model that way with enough putty, resin, and sanding. :-)

I'm certain your JS Maya model will look outstanding on the waves, and will cut the waves just fine as well, facets or no facets!
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: Backerther on February 13, 2026, 01:49:00 pm: NavyShooter,
Thank you for showing me your viewpoint about resin work in this case.! :-))

By the way, I have been too much surprised to know of your vigorous pace of building work.!! O0 :D :o :-))
When are you supposed to complete the model by that pace?
In my JS Maya, 9 months to finish including sailing test....

Kiyo
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on February 13, 2026, 05:16:59 pm: Some more puttering away today - full sand of the hull with 150 grit, then a shot of primer to see how she looks.

Some putty added to tidy up the low spots.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on February 13, 2026, 11:48:42 pm: Sanded....and one more layer of primer to end the work for the week:
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: ballastanksian on February 15, 2026, 09:28:53 pm: The result is worth the efforts you have made!
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on February 17, 2026, 04:46:11 pm: Time to do some shafts and motors....
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: Backerther on February 19, 2026, 12:49:54 pm: Hi NavyShooter,
It's so good to see your progress going so firmly as usual.

By the way, as for the screw props in your T26, I remember the diameter is 28mm as mentioned in your previous post.
How did you decide the size, from some plan or reference book or anything else?
I have no information about that for my JS Maya at all. And therefore, I intend to use 30mm -32mm dia screw props for my ship, judging from the space of stern bottom. {-) {-)
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on February 20, 2026, 11:30:03 am: My size was determined the same way - what fits between the shaft line and the hull when the prop is aligned in about the right spot....I had about 18mm of space between the centerline of the shaft and the hull, so I went with a 14mm radius (28mm diameter) shaft.

I've done some additional work yesterday - some more sanding/filling on the hull, then I took some 2K epoxy Primer (white) and sealed the interior of the hull. Looks quite nice now and brightens it up.

Shafts are glued in along with the A-Frames, so today will be a layer of primer on the hull, then maybe the blue coat to cover the hull. We'll see.

I had the 1-288 scale sample model out at the model club meeting this week and there were some very interested folks. We'll see where that leads. There might be a few more of these printed. :-)
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: Backerther on February 21, 2026, 09:51:42 am: Thanks a lot for your reply to my question,　NavyShooter.！！ :-))

Kiyo
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on February 25, 2026, 10:53:37 pm: Hull has now been sanded with 320 grit and is on her 4th coat of blue gloss for the portion below the waterline.

I'll let that dry a couple days then mask and work my way up.

Superstructure has been given a layer of 2K epoxy primer as well - a nice thick coat to seal things up.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on March 02, 2026, 11:03:06 pm: More putty, more primer - the superstructure is looking pretty decent now. There's still a couple spots that need filling again, but she's looking the part for sure now.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: Backerther on March 03, 2026, 04:13:50 am: The superstructure does look so decent for sure fundamentally. You really have done a nice job on the surface-smoothing work.! :-)) I suppose you might have spent a lot of time for painful and troublesome works to come up on here....
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on March 06, 2026, 09:34:21 pm: Parallel projects here - the mini version in 1/288 scale is getting closer to being done, as is V3.

I got the first layer of gray on the hull today. Some light sanding Monday and a second coat will follow.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on March 10, 2026, 08:34:52 pm: Some more paint work done....
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on March 11, 2026, 10:17:12 pm: I did the boot topping and deck gray on the hull of the little 1/288 version:
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on March 11, 2026, 10:18:51 pm: And, V3 is up on the shelf for the day - there will be visitors to the shop tomorrow, so the work bench is staged for 'dog and pony' work, instead of warships distracting me.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on March 18, 2026, 08:04:33 pm: I bench tested the electronics last week - and today did some work on the little one - here's how she looks.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: T888 on March 25, 2026, 06:57:19 am: NS,

Have you seen any actual photos of the River class ships in build or are they being constructed under cover. There does seem to be a lot of model pictures and AI pictures but no actual.
From experience I?ve found AI and models change from the actual ships.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on March 25, 2026, 07:56:36 pm: The RCN Leadership took delivery this week of a 1/75 scale model of the River - here's some pictures of the model, and a rendering based on that.

I have some changes to make.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: T888 on March 25, 2026, 08:04:22 pm: Hi NS,

That is why I put my T26 on hold as there are so many changes from concept to actual. I was remaking and correcting so many parts. I?ll restart my once more actual photos of the ships become available. Plus working with friends on getting info just so time consuming.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on March 25, 2026, 08:11:19 pm: I agree- but - neat thing for my build is that I've got the hull basically complete - and any changes are in the superstructure - which is a removable 3D printed set of modules that I can update, re-print, and stick on the same hull. :-)

I'm already in the process of updating the new radar mast/shark-fin (it's new profile) so, I'm puttering away with that in the background.

Also, here's the production photos from the official ISI F-BK page showing the progress on HMCS Fraser:
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: T888 on March 25, 2026, 08:36:30 pm: By the photos it looks like the Canadian builds are way behind the UK builds.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on March 25, 2026, 10:28:17 pm: We are. Our government dithered for years.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on March 26, 2026, 12:05:25 am: OK,

Here we go....a couple hours of CAD work and we've got something fairly close I think.

Details to be added, but I think I've got the basic geometry down now.

You can see the Gen 1, and Gen 2 main masts in the background as well. The ship is still going through iterations....nice thing is it's a 'simple' 'bit' of CAD work to get things close to where they should be.

NS
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on March 26, 2026, 04:18:03 pm: Some additional 3D design work and we now have a narrower main mast 'shark fin'.

Looks a bit closer to the way it should.

Also, here's the mini version in 1/288 scale on display in the hallway:
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on March 26, 2026, 04:20:24 pm: Also did some work on the rudders today - here's the brass sleeves inserted and glued into place:
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on March 27, 2026, 11:37:53 pm: Here we have a pound of lead shot that has been epoxied into the keel.

An initial bit of ballast. I'm thinking it'll need a bunch more once I get the electronics sorted out.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on March 27, 2026, 11:39:15 pm: Rudders also got installed today - along with swing arms. We'll see how this works...

Still have to print and install the servo mount. It's going to sit flat on the poured resin on the keel between the prop shafts.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: Backerther on March 28, 2026, 01:59:51 am: Hi NavyShooter,
You seem to have an initial ballast of lead epoxied permanently and so beautifully, and do you mean that you already checked brief draught test on the water to some extent.?

Your motor mounts look smart and well-engineered unlike mine.!! :-)) {-) O0
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on March 28, 2026, 11:15:04 pm: Nah, why check first? I've just gone with it and am hoping for the best.

She'll need a bunch more ballast I'm sure.

Eyeball test...LOL
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on March 29, 2026, 11:33:06 pm: I received some renderings of the Mission Bay today.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: T888 on March 30, 2026, 04:29:51 am: Actual RR Mission Bay Handeling system.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: derekwarner on March 30, 2026, 05:31:18 am: [Coming from an 18 year background as the cylinder contract facilitator for our Steel Industry], I see note the barrel to rod diameter ratio is greater in the actual upper pair of luffling cylinders from the Mission Bay setup as compared to that shown in the rendering

Naturally only a cosmetic visual at this stage, however will be noticeable if not captured for the future O0
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on April 02, 2026, 01:41:03 am: Soldering and heat shrink applied for the motor wiring today. Almost ready for a test-float!
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on April 02, 2026, 11:08:19 pm: And....we have a test run in the hot tub!

RCN Type 26 1/144 scale R/C Destroyer initial float test (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sZr3OC7ykno)
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on April 03, 2026, 08:47:29 pm: And, I've realized that with the model now being a functional R/C boat, I met the conditions to release publicly the files to print one yourself.

They've been posted up on another model boat building site (since that's where it was agreed with the original file creator to release them)

Here's the link to the thread:

https://modelshipworld.com/topic/39294-type-26-city-class-frigate-by-navyshooter-3d-print-1144-display/page/4/#findComment-1139655
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: ballastanksian on April 06, 2026, 06:03:15 pm: She looks fab! Good luck with sales :-))
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: GordonB on April 07, 2026, 11:40:43 am: The link says the files are unavailable. Am I doing something wrong?

Gordon
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: Rob47 on April 07, 2026, 12:53:45 pm: Same here
Bob
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on April 07, 2026, 01:03:51 pm: Try this link and scroll on down to page 4 where the files have been attached to one of my posts.

https://modelshipworld.com/topic/39294-type-26-city-class-frigate-by-navyshooter-3d-print-1144-display/

NOT FOR SALE - for free.

Enjoy.

NS
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: GordonB on April 07, 2026, 01:48:34 pm: This is what I get.
This attachment is not available. It may have been removed or the person who shared it may not have permission to share it to this location.
[/size][/color]
[/size][/color]
Gordon
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: GordonB on April 07, 2026, 01:50:22 pm: Sorry, that cut & paste did not work. The links say unavailable as the poster may not have permission to post or words to that effect.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on April 07, 2026, 04:08:27 pm: You may have to join that forum.

Sorry - that's the spot that the original creator of the files agreed to let me release them to.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on April 07, 2026, 04:11:05 pm: This is what it should like like if the link works:
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: GordonB on April 08, 2026, 09:49:44 am: Sorted, thank you. I did indeed have to join that forum. Not a bad thing I was unaware of it and there is a lot of good info there.

Gordon
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on April 28, 2026, 04:41:33 pm: I have found in testing that the superstructure is a bit heavy - ish.

I noted a slow roll during tests, and am concerned that the weight of things up top is a bit high. So. A bit of 3D design work with the print files and I was able to take the superstructure from about 700 grams to about 570 grams - that's 1/4 pound - not bad. That'll help.

I decided to buy some ASA-Aero filament which airplane guys apparently use a lot of. It's super light-weight and very temperature/weather stable once printed. Chamber is heated at 90 degrees, and the print head is at 270, so, yeah, toasty. I'm going to try and print some or all of the superstructure using this filament to see if I can get it to work out for me.

With ASA-Aero, the total printed weight is about 275 grams. from 700. So a savings of almost a full pound.

That's substantial.

We'll see how it looks and such when its all done. Test module (RADAR mast) is on the printer right now.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on April 29, 2026, 06:11:09 pm: I printed the Radar fin first, and it came out in PETG at 77 grams.

ASA Aero printed at 33 grams. That's a 58% savings in weight.

This stuff is pretty amazing.

The ASA stuff is in the foreground.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on May 01, 2026, 05:38:34 pm: Ok,

270 grams. Down from 585 grams in the 'lightened' PETG version, and way down from the original 700 gram version.

This is the way.

I'm going to do a minimum of painting/sealing/details on the ASA-Aero version. This will be my 'at sea' superstructure.

The original heavy one will be my 'display only' version.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: Backerther on May 02, 2026, 03:56:08 am: Oh, gee! You have made a remarkable progress in dieting the superstructure drastically while similar portion of my Maya is 470g currently.... :(( <:( I myself have made a nice result of diet by running regularly for one hour twice a week while she is not yet to such an extent, though.. :-X
You have a nice and modern weight meter, haven't you.? O0

Kiyo
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on May 13, 2026, 03:38:47 pm: Superstructure progress is slow-ish, and will slow again. I'm headed on vacation with my wife later in the week and will be away until early June.

In the meantime, here's some current photos of the ASA Aero superstructure getting sanded and primed. She got another layer of putty, sanding and primer since these pictures.

She's looking pretty good now.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: T888 on May 13, 2026, 03:42:56 pm: Getting there :-))
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: T888 on May 13, 2026, 04:38:48 pm: NS,

Can I pass some info regarding the mission bay doors on your model, the doors are as per the attached pic.Hope this helps.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on May 13, 2026, 04:46:58 pm: T888,

My thanks for that detail - the bi-fold option seems to be correct!
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: T888 on May 13, 2026, 05:02:44 pm: A year ago at a model show we attended, I had my T26 on display and the designer for the doors was visiting and confirmed I had the correct door operation. However trying to get any more info was a no go😂😂
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on May 14, 2026, 07:43:34 pm: I ended up putting my dock in the lake yesterday with my son who's home from University, so, we also put a T26 in the lake for a bit.

Here's some video:

1/144 RC Type 26 RCN Destroyer first launch (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2sZkscI4v68)
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: Backerther on May 16, 2026, 12:40:04 pm: Hi NavyShooter,
I just opened this MBM Forum for the first time in the past 3 days and found this awesome video in which you showed an excellent behavior of T-26 DDG, namely so stable turn at high speed in addition to attractive straight run leaving a realistic wakes. O0 :-)) :-))
Every part of the trial run was impressive and splendid to see as a sailing scale model.
A sailing scale model of warship is to be desired as this movement on the water. O0
It's not so common for a scale model shown in a video on here which I don't know why and I do expect you to post more videos whenever you sail the moving model on the water which is so interesting to see rather than the still pics only sitting calmly on the water. :D :D

I expect you to continue more works on her as a sailing scale model of DDG. O0 :-))
Kiyo
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: JohnG on May 16, 2026, 11:13:52 pm: I'm very interested to see your use of the ASA Aero filament - i'd not come across it (having mostly used PETG and then resin for details). Apart from the nozzle and printhead temps, did you learn anything else about recommended settings to print with it - or how it sticks to the print bed?

And thanks for posting the video of her on the water - loved it!
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on June 05, 2026, 04:16:39 pm: Quote
[size=0px]I'm very interested to see your use of the ASA Aero filament - i'd not come across it (having mostly used PETG and then resin for details). Apart from the nozzle and printhead temps, did you learn anything else about recommended settings to print with it - or how it sticks to the print bed?[/size][/size][size=0px]And thanks for posting the video of her on the water - loved it![/size]
[size=0px]

Apologies for the pause in responding - had to take the wife on a cruise, and a bit of a vacation. We started in Turkey, ended up in Venice with a bunch of nice stops in between. A few I'd seen previously, but a few new spots for me as well.

Thanks for the comments on the video - I think the best parts of those came when I let my son sail the boat so I could focus on filming. He was good and following my helm orders as well in terms of what I wanted to see the ship do. :-) Well trained minion.

As for lessons about ASA Aero printing. There were a few.

1. Don't use tree supports. Use standard rectilinear supports. The ASA Aero continues to 'foam out' when the printhead is moving, so when it has to jump from one tree to another tree, there's always a hanging hair of foaming filament that snags on the side of the next tree and eventually builds up on the side of the printed object as well.

2. Gaps are bad. See above about filament continuing to foam out when the head is moving - solution was to close up openings (ie the mission bay doors) so that the print works more like 'spiral vase' mode. This helps a lot.

3. Filling. There will be gaps in the print because of how the filament drags and builds up on the print head before spalling off in a clump. That will result in some lines/gaps in the final print. Fill with putty, sand, smooth.

4. It's not very strong. It does bend a bit, but it is not strong. I did crack it in a couple of spots by heavy handling that would not have damaged the PETG version.

I'm printing another one now for a buddy in the RN - his ship may be stopping in Halifax, and if so, he'll get to sail mine, and get to bring his (parts) home to assemble.

[/size]
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: Backerther on June 06, 2026, 11:30:49 am: Hi Navy Shooter,
How I envy you who made a fantastic cruise with your wife around the Mediterranean Sea.!! Wow!! :-)) :-))
I suppose you have made many and unforgettable memory through the cruise and why don't you post some in the appropriate MBM section!? :embarrassed:

Kiyo, a lover of long-range land cruise by car. :}
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on June 09, 2026, 02:11:30 am: Here is the next T26 print that's in progress - this one is for the gent in the UK who originally commissioned the 3D designer to make the model for him.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on June 10, 2026, 01:38:53 am: And here's the whole package - details and the PETG superstructure are being printed.

My acquaintance confirmed that he's going to need me to ship the package to him - he won't be here in person to pickup alas.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: NavyShooter on September 24, 2026, 03:32:41 pm: I haven't updated much here - not much to report on my build beyond a bit of sailing time this summer:

HMCS Gatineau 1/144 RC Type 26 River Class Destroyer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HVMSSB2aoI4)

I did get 'roped' into making one for a guy who works down the hall from me in 1/200 scale though.
Title: Re: NavyShooter does series production 1/144 Type 26 models
Post by: Backerther on September 25, 2026, 02:58:39 pm: Quote from: NavyShooter on September 24, 2026, 03:32:41 pm
I haven't updated much here - not much to report on my build beyond a bit of sailing time this summer:

HMCS Gatineau 1/144 RC Type 26 River Class Destroyer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HVMSSB2aoI4)

I did get 'roped' into making one for a guy who works down the hall from me in 1/200 scale though.
Hi NavyShooter,
I have appreciated the video of new ship sufficiently and had a favorable impression on it,especialy in the latter half.!! :-))
You look always to make an awesome sailing scale model by 3D.!!! Very stable and warship like behavior on the water. :-))
You did a very good job this time too.!! A video is so effective to report moving scenes of a moving model ship, as it always shows as is precisely, anyway.! {-) O0 :embarrassed:

Kiyo