Commissioned on January 16, 2010 by the United States Navy, the U.S.S. Independence has now been accurately reproduced down to the finest details. An anchor positioned at the tip of the bow is accurate to life and the 57mm gun atop the bow even has a muzzle with a hollow end. Above the integrated control and command tower is a decoy launching and air defense system while the tallest point of the Independence model is the finely detailed ISR Radar Antenna. To allow experienced modelers to construct the most highly detailed U.S.S. Independence model possible, and add a significant level of difficulty, three sheets of gold photo-etched pieces are included. Photo-etched pieces include rails and grills around the ship as well as safety nets around the flight deck.

As a littoral combat ship, the Independence is intended to be a small assault transport for operations close to shore, and the Independence model kit displays that functionality very well. The trimaran hull design coupled with large water jets provides the actual ship with high speeds and exceptional durability, while modelers can choose whether or not to show off this unique feature by displaying the waterline or full-hull version of the ship. Other customization options include leaving the doors on the stern and hull open, displaying the mine detection sonar beneath the ship open or closed, or leaving the two hangar doors on the flight deck open to provide the two Seahawk helicopters and one UAV helicopter with safe sanctuary. Once completed, the U.S.S. Independence model can be displayed on the included stand complete with a photo-etched label to give it that professional museum-style finishing touch.

The U.S.S. Independence LCS-2 Plastic Model Kit has the Following Features:

• 1/350 Scale
• Skill Level 3
• Molded in Gray
• 470 Pieces
• Every Part is Highly Detailed
• 3 Sheets of Photo-Etched Parts
• Over 14 Inches Long When Assembled
• Display Stand
• Construct the Waterline or Full-Hull Version of the Ship
• Detailed Instructions:
• Exploded Blueprint Illustrations
• Decal Placement Information
• Photo-Etched Parts Placement
• This Plastic Model Ship Kit Requires:
• Assembly
• Cement for Plastic Models
• Instant Cement
• Paint (Suggested Colors are Listed in the Instructions)
• Hobby Knife
• Sprue Cutters

Ages 14 and Up