“D-3” – the USSR torpedo cutter

The "D-3" torpedo cutters type was produced in the USSR at two plants: in Leningrad and Sosnovka, Kirov Region. By the beginning of the war the Northern Fleet had only two ships of this type. In August 1941 five more cutters were received from the factory in Leningrad. All of them were reduced to a separate detachment, which operated until 1943, when other "D-3s" began entering the fleet, as well as allied boats on Lend-Lease. The "D-3" boats differed favorably from their predecessors, the "G-5" torpedo cutters, although they successfully complemented each other in combat capabilities. "D-3" had improved seaworthiness and could operate at a greater distance from the base, than the cutters of the "G-5" project. On experimental boats and serial "D-3" for the first time onboard torpedo tubes were installed. Their advantage was, that they made it possible to launch a salvo from the "stop", while the "G-5" type cutters had to develop a speed of at least 18 knots - otherwise they would not have time to turn away from the launched torpedo. On boats of the "D-3" type improved navigation equipment was installed, compared to what was on the "G-5". The "D-3" deck made it possible to take a landing party on deck, besides, it was possible to move on it during a campaign, which was impossible on the "G-5". The conditions of the living of the crew, which consisted of 8-10 people, made it possible for the boat to operate for a long time far from the main base. Heating of the vital compartments of "D-3" was also foreseen.

A medium-complexity, well-designed and richly detailed model of the “D-3” Torpedo Boat for modelers of all experience levels. Only advanced beginners and less experienced modelers are recommended to work under the supervision of a more experienced colleague and this model should not be one of the first more complex models in Your modeling career.