Metal Earth 3D Model Kits has announced the coming release of a photoetched stainless steel rendition of the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt.

The USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-61) was launched in 1984 and first saw action during Operation Desert Storm in 1991. In 2001 on the evening of October 4th, the carrier launched the initial strike of Operation Enduring Freedom against al-Qaeda in Afghanistan from the North Arabian Sea. The ship is 1,092 feet long and holds up to 90 fixed wing and helicopters.

According to Metal Earth:

"Metal Earth is a collection of intricately designed model building kits. Each kit consists of remarkably detailed laser etching cut onto one or more four-inch square sheets of thin metal. Simply snap out the pieces, bend the tabs to attach them together and create highly-detailed replicas of vehicles and architecture that fit in the palm of your hand. Striking to look at, especially when placed to catch the light, most Metal Earth models measure about three inches long when completed. All can be assembled without any glue, although tweezers or needle nose pliers to bend the tabs will save sore fingers. Because of the tiny size of the components and the complexity of the models, Metal Earth models make ideal gifts for children ten years and older, teens, and even dads and moms!"

USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-61)
Item#: ICX022
Number of sheets: 2 Sheets
Difficulty: Moderate
Assembled Size: 8.00”(L) x 1.75”(W) x 1.90”(H)

I have built the Metal Earth USS Arizona, and I can attest to the innovative and interesting design of these kits - but they would be challenging for beginners. This kit is 2 sheets like the Arizona, but it is also three inches longer, so it may be a bit more difficult.

Intended, I think, to be sold mostly as gifts, these unusual little kits can be found in a surprising number of retail outlets as well as in hobby shops; I have seen them in Bed Bath & Beyond, Wal Mart, Barnes & Noble, and Target. They are inexpensive too with most priced around US$10-12.

The Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-61) kit hasn't been released as yet, but the price will probably reflect its increased complexity and size.