RSV Nuyina — Custom LEGO® Antarctic Icebreaker Model

A :125 scale replica of Australia’s polar research and supply vessel

• Commissioned by: Knud E Hansen Australia
• Scale: 1:125
• Model Length: 128 cm
• Built: 2018
  

About RSV Nuyina

• SV Nuyina is Australia’s new Antarctic Supply & Research Vessel, designed to resupply and support scientific bases in Antarctica. Built by Damen Group in Romania and designed by Knud E Hansen, she combines the functions of icebreaker, research ship, and supply vessel—boasting helicopter hangar, moon pool, and hybrid propulsion for silent scientific operations
  

Real Vessel Specifications

• Length overall: 160.3 m
• Beam: 25.6 m
• Draught: 9.2–9.3 m
• Full-load displacement: ~25,500 t
• Icebreaking capability: 1.65 m at 3 kn
• Speed: 12 kn economical / 16+ kn max
• Power: 2× MAN diesel engines (~19,200 kW each) + 4× diesel generators (~7,400 kW)
• Endurance: up to 90 days and a range over 16,000 nm
• Capacity: 117 scientists + 32 crew; 96 TEU cargo; 1,200 t fuel; 4×S‑92 or 2×AS‑350 helicopters; multiple tenders
  

LEGO® Model Highlights

• Faithful scale: 1:125 model measuring 128 cm long, with ~14,000 bricks
• Functional details: Features 3D‑printed azimuth thruster tunnels, moon pool, satellite domes, radar masts, cranes, and interior lighting
• Interactive elements:
• Pneumatic drop keels, working winches, opening hangar and container hatches—plus display of helicopters, amphibious vehicles, and ROVs
  

Community & Specialist Feedback

• “LEGO artist Konajra … incredibly detailed and accurate working model.” — Knud E Hansen
• Featured at SMM Hamburg and praised as “the most complex vessel we have ever built.” — Damen Group
• Enhanced by attention to detail, such as printed thruster tunnels and working drop keels.
  

The Build

• Designed and built in collaboration with Knud E Hansen Australia in 2018, the model was crafted to support a building kit initiative. The digital CAD design guided structure and accuracy, while custom 3D‑printed parts and pneumatics added operational realism. Over 15,000 LEGO® and printed elements make this build a functional and educational scale masterpiece

Interested in Your Own Model?

Want a custom LEGO® replica or a functional display model? KONAJRA creates professional-grade models of research vessels, icebreakers, and industrial ships.