AOIBHINN is one of two IPVs (Inshore Patrol Vessels) purchased by Ireland in 2022 from the Royal New Zealand Navy and now operated by the Irish Naval Service to patrol the Irish Sea and the Leinster coast. DQMODELS offer a 3D printed model of the Aoibhinn IPV, in kit form or as a limited-edition handbuilt model.
TO ASSEMBLE THE AOIBHINN KIT YOU WILL NEED basic modelling tools – a craft knife, scissors, sandpaper (eg P120) household filler (eg polyfilla), tweezers, cotton thread (brown) a cocktail stick, multipurpose glue. CA (cyanoacrylate) glue (superglue) is useful (but only if you’re over 18).
To paint the kit YOU WILL NEED acrylic paints: light grey (battleship grey), dark grey, burnt sienna, black.
NICE TO HAVE: ultramarine and white acrylic paints (for portholes). White acrylic paint, red acrylic paint, green acrylic paint, gold acrylic paint (all for base), clear polyurethane varnish (for base).
WARNING: It’s advisable to wash the kit parts in warm (NOT HOT) soapy water before assembly. STL printed parts especially can have surface residues of ethanol and resin, which can cause skin irritation. A soft toothbrush can be used to gently clean the parts. Allow parts to airdry before painting and assembly.
With so many of its components printed fully assembled, the Aoibhinn model feels as if it will provide little challenge to the modeller. However, it assembles well and, with some additional attention to details such as glazing the bridge and to adding whip aerials and antennae, the model comes together to present a very attractive representation of a modern warship.
Download pdf
In this video (1 of 3) we show how the dqMODELS aoibhinn 3D printed kit is assembled.
The second (2 of 3) video showing the assembly of the dqMODELS 3D printed L.E. aoibhinn kit. Glazing the bridge, decks and attaching the ribs.
The final (3 of 3) video showing the assembly of the dqMODELS 3D printed model of L.E. aoibhinn. Painting the hull and the base, adding final touches (antennae etc and flagpoles).
