The Soviet Union/Russian Navy Project 705 (Лира/Lira, "Lyre") was a class of hunter/killer nuclear-powered submarines. The class is also known by the NATO reporting name of Alfa. They were the fastest class of military submarines built, with only the prototype K-222 (NATO Papa class) exceeding them in submerged speed.
 
The Lira was a unique design among submarines. In addition to the revolutionary use of titanium for its hull, it used a powerful lead cooled fast reactor as a power source, which greatly reduced the size of the reactor compared to conventional designs, thus reducing the overall size of the submarine and allowing for very high speeds. However, it also meant that the reactor had a short lifetime and had to be kept warm when it was not being used. As a result, the Liras were used as interceptors, mostly kept in port ready for a high-speed dash into the North Atlantic.
 
Model length: 44.5 inches (113cm)
Beam: 5.1 inches (13cm)
 
Kit contents (1/72nd scale): 
 
Upper and lower fiberglass hulls in epoxy resin
Periscope castings (x5)
Rear tail fins (x4)
Control surfaces (x4) with cast-in shafts
Front dive planes (x2) with cast-in shafts
Layout drawing
White metal, highly detailed, 2-piece propeller assembly  
 
NOTE: This kit is for the advanced modeler. Some adjustment of fitment, filling and sanding will be required for assembly.