ZSU-23-4 Shilka

Russian SPAA gun system on modified PT-76 chassis

The ZSU-23-4 Shilka is a Self-Propelled Anti-Aircraft Gun (SPAAG) featuring quadruple 23mm cannon and a prominent radar dish that can be folded down during movement.  It is mounted on a modified PT-76 chassis, and is capable of acquiring, tracking and engaging low-flying aircraft (as well as mobile ground targets while either in place or on the move).  A number of different ZSU-23-4 models have been produced. These are primarily distinguishable externally by the types of stowage boxes on the turret and minor modifications in the mounting of the guns.

This model provides options for printing on a resin or filament printer, with full and split models included.  The complete model is hollow and is provided with drain holes to ease resin printing, with alternative, rotating turrets in firing and transport positions.

The split model is provided with separate turrets, guns, radar and tracks, which can be mounted with locating pins on the main hull.  Some fitting is likely to be needed for the tracks, as filament printers are generally problematic in printing small holes and pins.  The tracks are best printed with the axles vertical, and other components in their natural position.  The track assemblies are a bit fiddly, but seem to clean up reasonably well.  The use of a good quality filament is recommended, particularly for these items.

All files were prepared using Microsoft 3DBuilder, exported in stl format, and re-imported to ensure that they are 'clean'.  The only exception is the full model, which was too complex for this program to handle, but the hull and tracks were separately put through this process, so the assembly should only have minimal mesh issues, if any.

Variants can be generated on request, as the vehicle evolved over time.  The design is robust enough to scale to 1:87 or 1:76 if required.

Feedback on the design has resulted in an updated file for the FDM version.  This now offers a solid hull to make printing easier, and the tracks have been updated to permit them to be loaded easily into 3DBuilder, should this be required.  All other parts should already have offered this facility.

The product is offered for personal, non-commercial use.  Derivative designs for personal use may be generated, but neither the original nor derivatives may be shared with others.  Attribution of the design is requested should printed models be exhibited or otherwise shared.  Models printed from this design or derivatives may not be sold commercially.

I have added a file with a solid hull and solid turrets, as this was requested.  I recommend use of the hollow version on resin printers, but care must be taken to ensure that any remaining resin is properly washed and removed.  I have updated this version, as issues were reported with some floating elements on the hull top with this version (not on the others).