The Juliett-class, submarines designed to be like Swiss Army Knives of the underworld, known as Project 651 in the Soviet Union, were a series of diesel-electric cruise missile submarines developed during the late 1950s and early 1960s. Aimed to provide a second-strike nuclear capability during the Cold War, these submarines were tasked with targeting NATO forces, particularly carrier battle groups and coastal installations. Measuring approximately 90.5 meters in length and displacing around 3,174 tons on the surface (4,137 tons submerged), the Juliett-class was powered by diesel engines and electric motors, allowing speeds of up to 15 knots surfaced and 18 knots submerged. While their range was impressive—up to 18,000 kilometers (9,700 nautical miles) on diesel engines at 7 knots—their operational depth was limited to around 240 meters.
We have a free STL file for a Juliett Class display model and a file pack that contains 43 separate hi rez STL files to build your own model. You can get to the paid package from here or continue reading for the rest of the article, more images and your free model.
Armed with four SS-N-3 Shaddock (P-5/P-6) cruise missiles, which could carry either nuclear or conventional warheads, the Juliett-class also featured six bow and four stern torpedo tubes for anti-ship and anti-submarine warfare. Crewed by 80 to 90 personnel, these submarines entered service in the 1960s, with 16 built in total. However, they faced operational challenges due to their slower speed, reduced stealth compared to nuclear-powered counterparts, and increasing vulnerability to NATO’s advancing anti-submarine warfare technology.
As the Soviet Navy transitioned to nuclear-powered submarines, such as the Echo and Yankee classes, the Juliett-class became obsolete and was gradually decommissioned by the 1980s.
Despite their limitations, the Juliett-class submarines hold historical significance as a transitional phase in submarine development, showcasing the Soviet Union’s emphasis on cruise missile technology. A few examples, like the K-77, were preserved as museum ships, though many have since been lost or dismantled. The K-77, once displayed in Providence, Rhode Island, was unfortunately damaged by a storm. These submarines remain a testament to the strategic and technological innovations of their time.
The hull thickness is mostly between 3-4 mm, might be as thick as 10mm and even thicker in some areas at the bow and stern.
The file pack consists of 43 high rez STL files. Middle 4 sections of the hull are also divided into two separate parts each with easy assembly details for a RC conversion. Prop shafts are 8mm in diameter for suitability to RC accesories. We made this model as a display model but it might also be suitable to RC conversions but it’s not a simple project as this sub has missile compartments and hatches also occupy volume inside the hull.
Two display stands and two symmetrical propeller sets (with and without shaft) are included in the file pack.
File pack that contains 43 separate hi rez STL files to build your own model. You can get to the paid package from here.
Free model is above. Download and enjoy.
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