Submarines

Model builders come running to Frontline Hobbies for model submarines — from modelling enthusiasts to war history buffs looking to add the world’s most famous submarines to their collection. We have an incredible collection of model submarine kits that are sure to capture your imagination and keep you busy for hours on end, putting the pieces together like an elaborate puzzle.

Browse through our collection of submarine models and check out online today! We offer free shipping on orders over $150 and flexible payment options like Zippay.

The history of the submarine

Since ancient times, mankind has wanted to operate safely underwater, whether it’s to explore the depths and learn more about sea creatures and their habitats, or for modern warfare. 

The concept of underwater combat goes back thousands of years — there are paintings of men using hollow sticks to breathe underwater for hunting at the temples of Thebes and the first known military use occurred at the Siege of Syracuse in 415 - 413 BC where divers cleared obstructions for warships underwater. 

There were lots of different plans for submersibles and submarines during the Middle Ages but Englishman William Bourne was the first to build an actual submarine prototype in 1578. Bourne’s designed a completely enclosed boat that could be submerged and rowed beneath the surface. The design was waterproofed using leather and was to be submerged using a hand-operated wooden screw and leather bags to increase/decrease the volume of water to adjust the buoyancy of the vessel. 

Over the coming centuries, engineers continued to make human-powered submarines until the French Navy built Plongeur in 1863, a mechanical submarine. It was virtually unmanageable underwater with poor speed and maneuverability but it was a step in the right direction!

It wasn’t until the turn of the 20th century that mankind really started getting somewhere with submarine development. Diesel-electric propulsion became the dominant power system worldwide and instruments like the periscope became a standard. 

By 1914, all of the world’s major powers had submarine fleets and the Royal Navy had the world’s largest submarine service with 74 boats. They were the first to have deck guns and much better living quarters for the crew. Between WWI and WWII, engineers started to ditch diesel submarines because of their large batteries — they were too heavy and slowed down the submarines. Instead, submarines were built with snorkels and later steam propulsion systems.

Submarines were also built with waterproof hangars, aircraft carriers and radar capabilities as well as the capacity to transport nuclear warheads. 

Our range of submarine models

Looking to build an entire fleet of submarines? Or are you fascinated with the engineering of a specific country’s navy? Whatever design has sparked your imagination, we can guarantee we’ve got the model in stock here at Frontline Hobbies! 

We have submarine models from world powers like the United States, Russia, Germany, Japan and China. Choose from modern nuclear submarines to the older, less powerful submarines of old — we stock submarine models from world-famous brands like Tamiya, Hobby Boss, Trumpeter, Easy Model and more. 

FAQs about our submarine model kits

What tools do I need for a submarine model? 

Model ships and submarines are quite a challenge — they have hundreds of small parts that can be hard to grip with your fingers alone. With this in mind, there are a few hobby tools you’ll need for the build. To start, we recommend investing in a pair of tweezers and some pincers. Tweezers will make it easier for you to grip the pieces and put them into place, whereas pincers will help you snip the pieces out of their plastic packaging.

You’ll also need a file or some sandpaper to wear away any leftover plastic after you’ve removed the pieces from the packaging.

Finally, you’ll need plastic cement to ensure the pieces stick together permanently. We source our plastic cement from the world’s leader in modelling glue, Tamiya.

Will my submarine model be pre-painted? 

Some will, some won’t. We recommend reading through the product description and specifications before making a purchase to ensure you have everything you need for the build. Many of our submarine models also come with decals so you can add logos and flags to your submarines.

How should I display my submarine model? 

You can display your submarine however you like, but we recommend opting for an enclosed space like a bookshelf or display case with glass doors so your model stays dust and debris free. Cleaning a model submarine is no easy feat!

Can I use superglue for plastic models? 

You can use superglue for plastic models but it’s not the best glue for plastic models. Plastic cement is far more effective for bonding the pieces together, ensuring your submarine model doesn’t fall apart after a few years. Also, superglue can become cloudy over time and isn’t compatible with all kinds of plastic.

Shop model submarine kits online or in-store with Frontline Hobbies! 

If you’re missing a submarine model in your collection, you’ve come to the right place! At Frontline Hobbies, we have stacks of model submarines available from world powers like the United States, Japan, Germany, China and Russia. 

Complete your warship collection now — shop online for fast and affordable shipping or free shipping on orders over $150. Alternatively, come and visit us in-store to see complete builds and our collection in person! Our team would be more than happy to give you a tour and help find the missing piece in your collection.