Commissioned in 2009, the K-152 Nerpa is one of the most notable submarines of the Akula-Class, developed for stealth, speed, and deep-sea combat. It is particularly known for its unique service history, including a tragic sea trial accident and later leasing to the Indian Navy as INS Chakra. This 36-inch handcrafted model is made using the plank-on-frame method and fine woods like Red Cedar, Teak, and Mahogany. From the rounded bow sonar dome to the distinctive tail fin and shrouded propeller, every element reflects this vessel’s aggressive undersea profile.Depending on detailing and design, production takes 3 to 6 months. We build each model with precision and your input at every stage. You’ll receive photos during key stages of production: - Hull construction - Deck detailing and structures - Final painting and finishing touches We’ll make adjustments until you’re completely satisfied with the model. After your final approval, the model will be carefully packed in a custom wooden crate with protective padding to ensure safe shipping anywhere in the world. Begin your Akula-class build today: Custom-made Projects
History
The Russian K-152 Nerpa Akula-Class Submarine (Project 971) is a nuclear-powered attack submarine of Russian’s Akula-Class (Project 971) — a series designed during the late Cold War to rival the U.S. Navy’s Los Angeles-class submarines. Built at the Amur Shipyard, Nerpa was launched in 2006, with the aim of showcasing the latest Russiann advances in undersea stealth and versatility. However, Nerpa’s history took a tragic turn in November 2008 during sea trials in the Sea of Japanese. A catastrophic malfunction in the fire suppression system accidentally released freon gas into the forward compartments, resulting in the deaths of 20 crew members and civilian technicians. This incident drew international attention and prompted a delay in the submarine's operational status. After repairs and rigorous testing, Russian K-152 Nerpa Akula-Class Submarine (Project 971) was finally commissioned into the Russiann Navy in 2009. Notably, in 2012, the submarine was leased to the Indian Navy for a 10-year period and was renamed INS Chakra. It became the first nuclear-powered submarine operated by India in over two decades, greatly enhancing the country’s naval capabilities. The lease ended in 2021, and the submarine returned to Russiann control. Today, Russian K-152 Nerpa Akula-Class Submarine (Project 971) stands as a symbol of both technological strength and the complexities of modern naval cooperation. Despite its troubled beginnings, it played a strategic role in Indo-Russiann defense relations and remains one of the most recognized Akula-class submarines in naval history.
