Speed, Innovation, and Our 1:16 Scale RC-Ready 70ft Model
At the dawn of modern naval warfare, speed became a weapon in its own right. Among the earliest and most daring embodiments of this philosophy were the Thornycroft Coastal Motor Boats (CMBs)—lightweight, high-speed attack craft developed by John I. Thornycroft & Company during the First World War.
Designed for surprise torpedo attacks against much larger enemy ships, CMBs were radical machines for their time. Built with lightweight wooden hulls and powered by powerful petrol engines, they achieved remarkable speeds while maintaining a shallow draft suitable for coastal and confined operations. Their missions required precision, courage, and mechanical reliability. These boats were not built for comfort or endurance—they were built for speed and impact.
Continue reading for more info and renderings, or visit our page on Cults3d to purchase this model.
Among the various versions produced, the 70-foot CMB represented a refined and highly capable evolution of the concept. Larger than the earliest 40- and 55-foot boats, the 70ft variant offered improved seaworthiness, better operational flexibility, and increased effectiveness while preserving the aggressive performance profile that defined the class. These boats influenced the later development of motor torpedo boats (MTBs) and fast attack craft throughout the 20th century, making them a critical link in the evolution of small combat vessels.
Our 1:16 Scale Thornycroft 70ft CMB
A 1.3 Meter RC-Ready 3D Printable Model
At Endtas, we set out to recreate the 70-foot Thornycroft Coastal Motor Boat in a form that respects its historical significance while making it accessible to modern builders and RC enthusiasts.
The result is a 1:16 scale model measuring approximately 1.3 meters in length, designed entirely from scratch with functionality, printability, and assembly logic in mind. The model consists of over 170 carefully engineered parts, yet the building process remains straightforward thanks to a segmented hull architecture and integrated alignment features.
Despite its impressive finished size, the model is optimized for standard desktop 3D printers. The hull and structural components are intelligently divided into manageable sections that fit common build volumes, making it possible to produce a large, detailed vessel without requiring industrial equipment.
Engineered for Builders
A core philosophy behind this project was simple:
Large does not have to mean complicated.
The hull is segmented for clean printing and precise alignment. Integrated inter-piece screw bosses allow temporary mechanical fastening during dry assembly, ensuring straightness and symmetry before permanent bonding. This significantly reduces stress during glue-up and makes the process predictable and enjoyable.
The tops of the central hull sections are engineered to function as a removable access hatch, incorporating straightforward yet secure opening and fastening details. This configuration allows builders to access the internal RC components—motor, ESC, batteries, steering linkage, and wiring—without compromising structural integrity. In addition, the model faithfully preserves the original Thornycroft 70ft CMB’s central deck hatch as a fully operational feature. This secondary hatch provides the fastest direct access to the interior, particularly useful for battery changes, system checks, and maintenance between runs, while maintaining historical accuracy and clean deck aesthetics.
The model is also split along the waterline. This allows makers to print upper and lower hull sections in different filament colors, achieving a clean, color-separated finish without the need for masking or painting. Builders who prefer finishing work can of course paint the model—but it is not a requirement for achieving an attractive result.
Designed with RC in Mind
This is not a static display model adapted for RC use later—it was designed from the beginning as an RC-ready platform.
The internal layout provides generous room for propulsion systems, batteries, and electronics. Structural strength has been balanced with weight considerations to allow practical on-water performance. The hull geometry and internal organization make waterproofing and maintenance manageable for experienced builders.
Whether completed as a historically accurate display piece or developed into a fully operational radio-controlled fast attack craft, the model preserves the aggressive stance and sleek proportions that made the original Thornycroft boats so distinctive.
A Modern Way to Recreate Naval History
The Thornycroft 70ft CMB represents a pivotal moment in naval engineering—when speed, lightweight construction, and tactical boldness converged to redefine small combat vessels. Through modern digital design and 3D printing, it is now possible to recreate that spirit in workshop-scale form.
With its 1:16 scale presence, 1.3 meter length, and builder-focused engineering, this Endtas model offers a rewarding project for those who appreciate both maritime history and hands-on creation.
The original boats were built for daring missions.
This model is built for dedicated makers.
Are you up for a challenge? Then, visit our page on Cults3d to take a closer look at this model.
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