About SSNAP – Ships, Submarines and Naval Air Power
SSNAP: Modelled to Educate. Built to Inspire. - Bringing the Story of Sea Power to Life in Scale.
Ships, Submarines and Naval Air Power (SSNAP) is a UK-based IPMS Special Interest Group dedicated to the modelling of naval and maritime subjects in larger display scales. The group was established following Scale Model World 2022, with the intention of providing a dedicated home for modellers who specialise in 1/350 scale warships, 1/72 scale naval aircraft and related maritime weapon systems.
Our focus is on subjects that have participated in, supported, or been designed for naval warfare. This includes:
- 1/350 scale warships and submarines from all eras and navies
- 1/72 scale naval and maritime aircraft, whether carrier-based or land-based, provided they were operated in naval roles (e.g. torpedo bombers, anti-submarine aircraft, maritime patrol aircraft, strike aircraft, etc.)
- Modern and historical naval weapon systems, including missiles, torpedoes, CIWS, guns and associated platforms
SSNAP represents naval power as a connected system — ships, aircraft, submarines and weaponry working together rather than as separate themes. Our displays reflect this approach by presenting models within their historical or operational context, supported by digital QR-linked content that shares additional background, technical data, and narrative detail.
Activities and Shows
SSNAP exhibits at a range of IPMS and independent model shows throughout the year, including but not limited to:
- South West Model Show
- Eastbourne Model Show
- Farnborough Model Fest
- Scale Model World (Telford)
At each event, our aim is to present both high-quality modelling and an accessible, informative display that highlights the story behind each subject.
Membership and Scope
The group welcomes modellers of all abilities, backgrounds and interests. There is no limitation on era, nationality or theatre of operations. Whether you are building an aircraft carrier, a WWII destroyer, a Cold War submarine, a Fleet Air Arm aircraft or a modern naval missile system, there is a place for your work within SSNAP.
We place equal value on historic and modern subjects, well-known warships and lesser-known vessels alike. The only requirement is that the model has a clear connection to naval or maritime operations.
Our PurposeSSNAP exists to:
- Promote larger-scale naval modelling within the IPMS community
- Provide a collaborative and knowledgeable space for modellers with a shared specialist interest
- Encourage historical understanding through modelling
- Showcase the breadth of naval power across ship, air and sub-surface domains
- Present visually engaging and educational displays at public shows
Mission Statement
Our mission is to bring together modellers of all abilities who share an interest in naval and maritime subjects, and to create a welcoming community where ships, submarines, aircraft and naval weapon systems are built, shared and celebrated in scale. We aim to inspire learning, encourage confidence, and showcase the story of sea power through high-quality, historically informed modelling that everyone can enjoy and take part in.
We are committed not only to supporting our members, but also to educating the public in an engaging and approachable way — using conversation, storytelling and interactive displays to bring naval history and technology to life at shows and events.
Summary
SSNAP is the UK’s primary IPMS SIG for larger-scale naval subjects, offering a structured but welcoming environment for anyone with an interest in maritime modelling. Whether you are building your first frigate or your fifteenth fleet carrier, we provide a platform where your work can be displayed, discussed and appreciated.