Model Military International - Issue 088 (August 2013)

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Modelling Trees Part One - Broadleaf Trees

Modelling Trees Part Two - Conifers

£19.95

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92 pages, full colour.

A V I D

Tank Art Volume 1 WWII German Armor

92 pages, full colour.

By Michael Rinaldi. There are many “how-to” books in today’s world of scale modeling, but none has covered the “why”, as well as, the “how-to” processes’ the modeler’s artistic approach, until now. Paperback, 208 pages, full colour.

£19.99

Tiger 1 in Action 1942-1945

This edition has been revised and augmented, with more accurate captions as to dates and locale, together with new illustrations and a chapter on additional units. 288 pages square spine.

£34.00

Officers and Soldiers 21 French Hussars a Cheval Volume 3. This third part illustrates the last years of the Empire; dark years which will see our “Chasseurs” being gobbled up during the Russian disaster. Full Colour, 83 pages.

£15.00

R E A D E R

Combat History of the 10 - Panzer-Division 1939-1943 Originally writ-

OF

T ANKOGRAD M A I L

B O O K S

Tank Art Volume 2

Panzerwrecks 15.

£20.99

£16.99

There are 5 models featured inside, 4 dedicated technique chapters, plus a special bonus figure modeling chapter by Radek Pituch. Inside features over 500 color photos reproduced in a large format.

RG-31 MRAP Part One in Detail

Chapters Include: History and Development, MK.1 Walkaround, MK.1 Interior, MK.3 Walkaround, MK.3 Interior, MK.3 with SPARK, MK.3 with VOSS, 72 pages, 164 Full Colour photographs.

ten in German by Mr. Albert Schick, this unit history covers the history of an unusual Panzer Division of the German Army in WW II. Hardback, 562 pages, 37 photos.

O R D E R

£19.99

What naval forces were knocking out Panzers in Paris? Why would a Pz.Kpfw.IV wear T34 tracks? How do you move a 70 ton Jagdtiger? Where did the Patton Museum Panther come from? The answers to these and other questions are to be found here in Panzerwrecks 15, with 132 rare photographs sourced from around the world.96 pages.

Army Wheels in Detail British Military Motorcycles

This publication contains detailed historical photos, detailed photos of restored machines, detailed drawings from the instruction manual. English and Czech language. 52 pages.

£14.99

Abrams Squad: The Modern

Modelling Magazine The FIRST magazine in the world devoted to Modern Warfare modelling. Here you will find the best articles of the best modellers and writers in the world. Step by step articles, painting techniques, building techniques, illustrated reports, news, reviews, videogames and much more. £9.99

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BY REPRINTED MAND!!! POPULAR DE The Weathering Magazine - Rust

For the very first time in the world of modeling, we introduce a new quarterly magazine exclusively dedicated to weathering effects and painting techniques.

£8.99

The Weathering Magazine Volume 4 Engines Fuel & Oil

With the help of a wide range of products and the latest painting techniques, we will describe in-depth the techniques to paint engines and oil effects.

Tankograd 6027 - U.S. WW II GMC Wrecker Trucks, Gasoline Tank Trucks and AFKWX-353 illustrations, among them WW2 action COE Truck 48 pages with 150-200

£9.99

Photo history of the US Navy’s first “Night Operations” aircraft carrier. 73 pages, 77 Black & White photographs, 4 colour.

£14.99

£8.99

Tankograd 6028 - U.S. WW II M10 and M10A1 Tank Destroyers 48 pages with 150-200

photos, colour photos and technical drawings. Excerpts of technical manuals, wartime photos, photos of restored vehicles. Ideal compagnion for modellers and fans of technology. Complete background history and variants.

Warship Pictorial 40 - USS Independance CVL-22

illustrations, among them WW2 action photos, colour photos and technical drawings.Excerpts of technical manuals, wartime photos, photos of restored vehicles. Ideal compagnion for modellers and fans of technology. Complete background history and variants.

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The Messershmitt Bf109 RAF Typhoon Owners We are delighted to announce Workshop Manual

£21.99

£19.95

luftschiffer, or Feldluftschiffertruppe provided extensive and often decisive reconnaissance of enemy troop movements and artillery positions, and guided the German forces’ own artillery fire and infantry attacks. 96 pages, 176 black & white photographs.

the next release in the Airframe & Miniature series: The Bf 109 Early Series (V1 to E-9 including the T-series): A Complete Guide To The Luftwaffe’s Famous Fighter. 208 pages, Fully illustrated with plans, photos, colour images.

Published with the full cooperation of the RAF, the Typhoon is given the Haynes Manual treatment and offers readers a unique insight into flying and maintaining the latest high-tech combat aircraft in the RAF’s inventory. 150 pages, 177 col & 4b&w Illustrations.

£21.99

Tankograd 5043 - FENNEK Tankograd 3020 - NUCLEAR MILITƒRFAHRZEUG 3-2013 Nuts and Bolts 30 - Nebel-, Panzer- und Super Model InVielfachwerfer 208 pages A4, approx. 391 The Fennek Reconnaissance Vehicle WINTER FTX US Army Panzer-Olympiade ternational No. 3 in Modern German Army Service. Altogether, the Bundeswehr procured 226 Fenneks, some of which have since been destroyed during operations. This publication comprehensively describes the development and technology of the Fennek in all its variants. 72 pages, 144 colour photographs.

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Tankograd 1008 - Feldluftschiffer: The German Balloon Corps and Aerial Reconaissance The Feld-

Vehicles during the Cold War Exercises WINTER SHIELD I and II in 1960-61. In the early 1960s Germany was the centre of the Cold War and a nuclear clash of the superpowers on German soil was a realistic yet in the same way horrific scenario. 64 pages, Illustrated with 6 colour photographs and 104 b&w photographs.

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Canadian Army Trophy 89, Feldarbeitsgerit HATRA SL 125, DANA M1 CZ, ‘Monster’Schneefrise auf Panzer IV, Bedford MJ 4x4 4-Tonne Cargo Truck, Geheimdokument ‘Verbrannte Erde’. 56 pages, fully illustrated, GERMAN TEXT ONLY!!!!

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photos, of these 250 contemporary photos from manuals and from the front in b/w, a number of them previously unpublished; 113 colour photos of the surviving vehicles in public and private collections, 28 colour photos of the two models from Tony Greenland & Vinnie Branigan, English / German captions, 46 pages, several charts, 24 pages scale drawings of all versions and details in 1:35 scale from John Rue, 9 pages of camouflage schemes from Laurent Lecocq.

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Published by Kagero. With hundreds of colour photos, including archival shots and current museum pieces, supporting colour profile artwork. 78 pages.

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13/06/2013 15:01

Contents - Issue 88 August 2013 42

46

REGULARS

FEATURES

p 4 NEWS

p 6 THINK TANK

p 42 SON OF A GUN

p 52 FIGURES

p 14 GREEK ADVENTURE

p 46 HAVE PIXIE SUIT, WILL TRAVEL!

What’s new in the world of military modelling New figures releases

p 53 DIARY DATES

Shows and Competitions around the world

p 54 INCOMING

MMI’s thoughts on the latest kits and accessories

p 55 BOOKS

Roundup of recent titles

p 56 1:48 SCALE

Luke Pitt explores 1:48 scale military models, figures and accessories

Inside the Armour A10 Cruiser Tank by Brett Green

p 22 PREVIEW

HobbyBoss 1:35 T-26

p 24 BIG BAD BAZ

Anthony Sheedy builds Meng’s 1:35 Merkava Mk.3 BAZ with Mine Roller

p 30 COLOURFUL RENAULT

Brach Models’ 1:35 French R35 by Steve Zaloga

p 35 PREVIEW

Meng 1:35 Pickup w/ZU-23-2

p 36 THINK TANK

p 66 LAST POST

M109 by Stuart Ransley

Late breaking news and ramblings from the Editor

Andrew Judson’s 1:35 scale Kinetic M109A2

Young Miniatures 1:10 British Tanker Bust by Matt Wellhouser

p 50 BUILD PREVIEW

MiniArt 1:35 GAZ-AA truck by Graham Tetley

p 58 PREVIEW

©ADH Publishing Ltd 2013 Tel: (UK) 01525 222573 Fax: (UK) 01525 222574 Email: [email protected] Address: ADH Publishing, Doolittle Mill, Doolittle Lane, Totternhoe, Bedfordshire, LU6 1QX, UK

Riich Models 1:35 Universal Carrier

p 59 PREVIEW

Dragon 1:35 25 Pdr with Limber

p 60 PREVIEW

Dragon 1:35 Panzer III Ausf. G Early

p 61 PREVIEW

HobbyBoss 1:35 Panzer I Ausf. F

24 p 03 Contents 088B.indd 3

A10 Cruiser Tank by Peter Brown

Model Military International is published monthly by ADH Publishing. Reproduction in part or whole of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. While due care is taken to ensure the contents of Model Military International is accurate, the publishers and printers cannot accept liability for errors or omissions.

ISSN 1749-8864

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Newsline - August’13

A Sound Like Thunder: Mortain And Falaise, August 1944 The next title in Oliver Publishing’s Firefly Collection, “A Sound Like Thunder: Mortain And Falaise, August 1944”, will be available soon. Focusing on the last battles of the Normandy Campaign, this book includes: • 13 pages of full colour artwork depicting over 40 different vehicles including armoured cars, half-tracks, assault guns, Panzer IV, Panther and Tiger tanks • Black and white archive photographs, many never before reproduced • Campaign maps and histories of the units involved • Detailed tables showing vehicle types and allocations, and more Although this book is grounded in the same period as Oliver Publishing’s previous, out of print title Panzers In The Bocage (which now sells for over US$350 on Amazon!), it is not a re-print and contains new text, photographs and illustrations. Copies of this book and other Firefly Collection titles may be ordered direct from ADH Publishing at www.adhbooks.com

MMI Newsdesk, ADH Publishing, Doolittle Mill, Doolittle Lane, Totternhoe, Bedfordshire, LU6 1QX, UK Tel:01525 222573 Fax:01525 222574 Email:[email protected]

Inside the Armour Leopard 2 Upgrades Inside the Armour has announced three new releases: 35065X Leopard 2A5/A6 Deluxe Upgrade - Includes ITA 35065 photo-etched and resin set plus ITA L44/55 Barrel and Bronco Leopard 2 Tracks. The total is over 430 PE parts, 18 resin parts and around 580 Styrene Parts. This will be a very comprehensive detailing solution for your Revell, Tamiya or Hobbyboss Leopard 2A5 or 2A6 35074 Rheinmettal 120mm L44/L55 - Optional L44 or L55 parts included, 3 different muzzles (very early L44, later L44 and L55 muzzles), collimator, improved bore excavator and resin recoil gusset. 4 turned brass parts, 6 resin parts. Provides parts for one barrel. Suitable for Revell and Hobbyboss Leopards. May be used with Tamiya with some 'surgery'. This item was announced before but was withdrawn before sale to correct the bore evacuator and to add three new muzzles. 35078 Bren Sten and Thompson Slings - set comprises PE Slings and 'furniture'. • 3 Bren Slings • 5 Sten Slings • 5 Thompson Slings All slings come with many spare parts to account for losses. The slings themselves have detailed ends representing the metal end clips. All three items are in stock and on sale now at www.insidethearmour.com

The Great Escape on Blu-Ray

Nuts & Bolts Vol.30: Nebel-, Panzer- und Vielfachwerfer The newest title from Nuts and Bolts is Volume 30, Nebel-, Panzerund Vielfachwerfer. The new book should be available now. It is 208 pages A4, glue-bound, and contains approx. 391 photos, of these 250 contemporary photos from manuals and from the front in black and white, a number of them previously unpublished; 113 colour photos of the surviving vehicles in public and private collections, 28 colour photos of the two models from Tony Greenland & Vinnie Branigan, English / German captions, 46 pages English / German text, several charts, 24 pages scale drawings of all versions and details in 1:35 scale from John Rue, 9 pages of camouflage schemes from Laurent Lecocq, and tables of organization of units (KriegstärkeNachweisungen KStN) having these weapons in their arsenal. For further details please visit the Nuts and Bolts website www.nuts-bolts.de

In celebration of the birthday of iconic Hollywood legend Steve McQueen who would have turned 83-years-old this year, MetroGoldwyn-Mayer Studios and Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment will release The Great Escape on Blu-ray for the first time in the UK on 3 June 2013. Directed by Academy Award nominee John Sturges, catch one of AFI’s “100 Most Thrilling American Films” in an all-new masterful 4K transfer. Based on a true story, The Great Escape is “a motion picture that entertains, captivates, thrills and stirs” (Variety). In 1943, the Germans opened a maximum security prison-of-war camp, designed to hold even the craftiest escape artists. By doing so, they unwittingly assembled the finest escape team in military history - brilliantly portrayed by Steve McQueen, James Garner, Charles Bronson, and James Coburn- who worked on what became the largest prison breakout ever attempted. The Blu-ray comes fully loaded with over three hours of special features including commentary with Director Sturges and crew, multiple making of featurettes, the original theatrical trailer and more. For more information, visit www.mgm.com

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Think Tank - A10 Cruiser Tank This is the A9E1 prototype showing the “slow motion” suspension and the obvious difference between the A9 and A10, the two small machine gun turrets at the side of the driver. Several detail changes were made before the design was finalised for production such as the conical tops to these turrets. (Tank Museum)

A10 CRUISER TANK

Peter Brown describes the development, deployment and operations of the British A10 Cruiser Tank.

A

t the outbreak of WWII, the British Army classified its tanks under three main categories Light Tanks for scouting and use in areas where roads and bridges would not support heavier vehicles Cruiser Tanks as the main equipment of Armoured Divisions Infantry Tanks indended to accompany infantry attacks The first Cruiser was the A9, developed in the early 1930s by Vickers using its “slow motion” suspension with two bogie units each having one large and two smaller wheels. A10 was initially intended to be an Infantry Tank using many components from the A9 but with thicker armour. The A10E1 prototype T1479 BMM833 was delivered in October 1936. Maximum armour thickness was 30mm, which was over double that of the A9, however when the minimum armour for Infantry Tanks was set at 60mm it was “downgraded” to a Heavy Cruiser. Various modifications and trials were carried out including a change

from a Rolls-Royce Phantom II engine to one from AEC and fitting a self-sealing extra fuel tank on the left-hand front mudguard. In September 1939 it was fitted with extra weights to simulate heavier armour and tested against the A12E1 Matilda prototype as part of the development of the Valentine Infantry Tank. When it was of no further use it was disposed of in August 1940. General design and layout was similar to A9 apart from the lack of sub-turrets. The official Instruction Book covered both types. One other difference was the extra fuel tank in the hull front by the driver on the A10. This increased the capacity to 98 gallons to compensate for the extra fuel consumption due to its greater weight and allow a similar radius of action. It was fitted with a water-cooled 150hp six-cylinder AEC Type 179 petrol engine, the gearbox had five forward and one reverse gear and the rearmounted transmission drove the tracks through sprockets also at

the back. Its three-man turret was rectangular and was balanced by a No 9 radio set. Traverse was hydraulic with manual backup. The style of naming used by British tanks was changed in June 1940. Originally they were known by the specification code used when the initial design was requested but this made it difficult to tell whether a tank was Light, Cruiser or Infantry. A new system included the class and official documents were changed to reflect this though reports and War Diaries used the older style for some time. (Another change in 1941 to give tanks names like Crusader and Churchill only applied to those in production or yet to come) As A10 was the second type of Cruiser it became known as the Cruiser II with variants denoted by letters • A10 Mk I or Cruiser II carried 2pdr and .303 Vickers gun in a No 1 type gun mounting and no hull machine gun. These tanks had a four-man crew. • A10 Mk Ia or Cruiser IIA had a

2pdr and coaxial 7.92mm BESA in the No 3 Mk I mounting plus another BESA in the hull which meant they had a five-man crew. • A10CS Mk Ia or Cruiser IICS carried 3.7” Mortar and coaxial BESA with a BESA in the hull, it had a five-man crew. Four production contracts were placed • 10 from Vickers with census numbers T8091-T8100 and civil registrations PMX448-PMX457 • 75 from Birmingham Railway Carriage & Wagon Co Ltd, T5909-T5983 RMV264RMV338. These were 13 Mk I and the rest Mk Ia • 75 from Metropolitan-Cammell Carriage & Wagon Co Ltd with census numbers T9191-T9265, these did not have civilian registrations. These included 12 Mk I and 30 CS • 100 were to have been built by Crabtree though this was reduced to 10 with census numbers T15115-T15124 A

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A10E1 prototype T1479 BMM833 in its original form. This front view shows that it is in effect an A9 fitted with heavier armour and without the small turrets for machine guns. (Tank Museum)

A10E1 after modifications to the hull front made it more like the production version. Hull machine gun which looks to be a dummy. The cupola on the turret was not fitted on production vehicles while the undercuts on the front corners of the turrets were found on the early tanks. After the changes it would be easy to think this was a different tank but the registration number shows it was the same vehicle. (Tank Museum)

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Think Tank - A10 Cruiser Tank B This gave a total of 170 tanks

built made up from 35 Mk I, 105 Mk Ia and 30 Mk Ia CS. The first was delivered at the end of 1939. Main production ran until October 1940 although delays meant that the Crabtree tanks were not built until 1941 with the last delivered in July. Original documents such as War Diaries and tank strength reports were often vague as to sub-types. Any type of A10 including CS tanks could be listed as “A10” regardless of its correct designation. The following accounts use the same designations as used in the original sources.

Official photos of 1st Armoured Division in France in 1940 are not common. This is the only shot of an A10 the author could find in the Imperial War Museum. Its original caption dates it between 26-29 May 1940, part of a short series under general title “In the Battle Areas”. It is described as “Tank of 2nd Armoured Bde guarding point at Foucanon during operations on the Somme”. The arm of service number 3 identifies it as Headquarters 2nd Armoured Brigade. Barely visible under the camouflage net on the lower edge of the glacis is 1st Armoured Division’s white rhino sign. Bridge Class 14 on a yellow disc can be clearly seen. The armoured cover over the mantlet shows up well, black beret and cap badge of the soldier in the commander’s hatch shows he was RTR while the other crew member prefers a standard steel helmet. (IWM)

Early Service As of May 1939 the official War Establishment for a British Armoured Division was to be one Light Armoured Brigade with each of its three Armoured Regiments having 58 Light and Light Cruiser Tanks - these being A9 or A13 Mk I - while the Heavy Armoured Brigade’s three Regiments would have 26 Light Cruisers, 6 CS Cruisers and 15 Heavy Cruisers - A13 Mk II or A10. Division and Brigade HQs would have a mix of Light and Heavy Cruisers. A new Establishment introduced in March 1940 replaced the mixed equipment of the Armoured Regiments with 52 Cruisers. However, there were not enough Cruisers available to complete even the two existing Armoured Divisions - 1st in the United Kingdom and 7th in Egypt - in this manner. Both had a mix of Light and Cruiser Tanks with A10 and A13 series initially only used in the UK. 1st Armoured Division at that time consisted of 2nd Armoured Brigade with The Queen's Bays (2nd Dragoon Guards), 9th Queen's Royal Lancers and 10th

Royal Hussars (Prince of Wales’s Own) plus 3rd Armoured Brigade composed of the 2nd, 3rd and 5th Battalions of the Royal Tank Regiment. Although more Cruisers were received, when the Division was sent to France after the German attack in May 1940 it still had many Light Tanks as well as A9, A10 and A13 Mk I and II Cruisers. 3RTR was sent as part of a force to hold Calais. Landing on 22nd May with 21 Light Tanks and 30 Cruisers including some A10, by the 25th only three Cruisers and four Light Tanks were

operational. Attempts to break out to Gravelines failed and the few remaining tanks were driven into the sea when they ran low on petrol. Over half the Battalion’s men were evacuated before fighting ceased on the 26th, and more were able to escape later. The remainder of the Division landed at Cherbourg on 21st May. It attempted to advance over the River Somme but lack of spares and replacements reduced it strength almost as much from breakdowns as from tanks knocked out. By end of May they were down to around half their initial

strength with 65 Cruisers and 64 Light Tanks in working order. A10 suffered badly in terms of faults with just two lost to enemy action compared to 12 with mechanical faults. Composite regiments were formed from remaining tanks as the Division was pushed back towards Cherbourg where they embarked on the 18th, arriving at Southampton during the night. A few tanks were brought back but most were lost including 31 A10 out of a total of around 100 Cruisers. An analysis of the equipment and organisation of the 1st Armoured Division was not

After returning in the UK, 5RTR received new tanks including A9 and A10. These photos from July 1940 as captioned as “Cruiser Mk I tanks of 5th Royal Tank Regiment, 3rd Armoured Brigade, 1st Armoured Division on Thursley Common, Surrey”. Markings are sparse with just the Division’s rhino on the front, squadron symbols on the turrets and vehicle names on the stowage bins, T9236 was EGGESFORD while EGREMONT’s serial was T584-something with the last digit obscured by the bin. This is a later vehicle with coaxial and hull Besa machine guns. Just visible is the broad white line around the upper edge of the turret used as an air-ground recognition marking, in the rear view most of the open loader’s hatch is white. (IWM)

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Part of a series of photos from late 1940 showing tanks “somewhere in England”. Most probably this was near Bovington Camp in Dorset where men were trained in all aspects of manning tanks. Mix of vehicles is typical of training establishments, an early A10 is closest to the camera following several A13’s with a Matilda near the front of the column. (IWM)

complementary about the A10 and A9, saying both were slow and underpowered with tracks offering poor grip and short life. Units were re-equipped with whatever tanks were available including A9, A10 and A13 series which some took with them as they moved to Egypt. A detailed list for the end of 1940 states • 1st Armoured Division - 129 Cruisers including 3 A9, 10 A9CS, 2 A10 and 6 A10CS plus 141 Light Tanks • 2nd Armoured Division - 163 Cruisers including 6 A9CS, 73 A10 and 13 A10CS plus 169 Light Tanks • 7th Armoured Division had 60 Cruisers listed as A9 but they had A9CS and A10 by this stage, along with 144 Light Tanks As newer tanks came into use and units went abroad there were fewer older Cruisers in the UK. Figures for June, July and August 1941 showed 6 A10CS, 8 A9CS and around two dozen A13 Mk II Cruiser IVA in 1st Armoured Division alongside Covenanters and Crusaders but none with any other unit. By the end of September 1st Armoured had moved to the Middle East and no A10 were listed in

the UK although training schools retained a few.

North Africa The early desert battles were fought with Light Tanks and a few A9, the first A10 only arrived in Egypt towards the end of 1940. The Tank Situation for 7th Armoured Division on 20th October recorded several Light Tanks Mk VI series and that most Cruisers were A9 apart from 2RTR which had A9CS, A10 and A13 Mk IIA. Another 18 A10 were expected to arrive shortly and be ready for action by mid-November. 1RTR received some in November and 6RTR received two in early December but exchanged one with 4th Armoured Brigade HQ for an A9. All these would be needed as a major offensive was planned. This was Operation COMPASS which began on 9th December 1940, figures from a few days before there was shortage of 106 Cruisers but 140 more Light tanks than required and that many tanks were in workshops. 2RTR advanced to Sidi Barrani in early December losing some tanks including at least one A10. On the 20th they had 4 A9, 7 A10, 11 A13 and a dozen Light

T9251 AMBUSH of 1RTR shows the thicker barrel of the 3.7” Mortar and the contrast between the thenstandard colours used on British army vehicles, G3 Khaki Green and G4 Dark Green. (IWM)

Tanks. 1RTR’s War Diary stated that on 31st December they had 16 A9 and A10, 16 Light Tanks and two Scout Cars. 6RTR were less specific on their tanks but the Brigade records say that the 18th of January they handed 13 Light Tanks and 11 Cruisers to 1RTR, 2RTR and 7th Hussars but does not say what types. 1941 started well enough. On 5th January Australian troops took Bardia and on the 22nd Tobruk was captured with the main body of the Italian forces cut off at Beda Fomm on 7th February. British tank strength was 95 Light Tanks and around 50 Cruisers. 4th Armoured Brigade - 3rd Hussars, 7th Hussars and 2RTR - with infantry from the Rifle Brigade and artillery support attacked them. 2RTR was the strongest unit with 25 Cruisers which were mostly A13, they claimed 79 Italian tanks and put their own losses at an A13 and two A9. After this action they were moved to the Nile Delta and re-equipped with more A9, A10 and A13 which were reported as being in a poor state. Transfers of tanks were common as was the switching of regiments within Brigades. 3rd Armoured Brigade recorded one such change on 25th January,

3RTR were to be detached from the Brigade and transfer some Cruisers to 5RTR, which would leave 3RTR equipped solely with Mk IIA and 5RTR with six Mk IICS and 46 Mk IVA. A report dated 15th February 1941 listed problems with various tanks in North Africa including A10 and A9. These included clutch problems due to a lack of dust proofing, tyre problems with “rubber bonded on canvas” types failing while “rubber bonded on a steel base” were satisfactory, securing bolts on the suspension units working lose which meant the tanks had to be all but gutted to fix as the bolts had to be held from inside, and also bolts on the track adjuster hubs shearing. In addition, turret roller housings on A10 fractured, this was put down to A10 turrets being heavier than A9. As at 20th February 1941, the day that the first German forces were encountered, the Tank State in the Middle East was summarised as 7th Armoured Division 2nd Armoured Division Base Ordnance Depots etc

Light Tanks 165 52 172

Cruisers 82 66 55

A

Part of a series of photos taken on 5th October 1940 of 2RTR unloading in Egypt. Newsreel film this event is online at Pathe Gazette’s website as clip 1143.05 E699 shows an unusual view looking down on the tank showing the white turret top band. This tank has the hull machine gun mounting blanked off while the other has the mounting but its machine guns are not fitted. Markings vary in style and position, 1st Armoured Division’s white rhino can be seen both with and without the oval surround. Also seen are the arm of service sign 61 on a green square, Mobilisation Number 0046 in small white characters apparently without the coloured strips also used. Note also the sun helmets still commonly used at this time. (IWM) August 2013 - Model Military International 9

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Think Tank - A10 Cruiser Tank B By 8th March there was still a

and New Zealand troops sent to aid the Greeks. Their task was to guard the Florina pass in the northwestern frontier between Greece and Yugoslavia. 3RTR moved to Alexandria to take ship for Greece, arriving on 10th and 11th March. Conditions were cold and Light Tanks VI A9 A9CS A10 A10CS A13 wet. Luckily they had been issued with battledress in series Egypt. By the 18th all were Total for 1st April 368 66 6 89 12 85 12th April with units 176 28 6 28 12 29 in place around Amyntaion, 12th April in Depots 148 38 - 28 - 16 the War Diary stating “Tank Total for 12th April 324 66 6 56 12 45 country was noted, and all 3RTR took A10s and A13s with routes, paths, villages explored. them when they sailed to North Very suitable country for A10s if Africa from Liverpool in October complete reliance could be placed 1940. Their War Diary recorded on tracks, which were old and on 25th January 1941 “28 Mk. IVA needed replacement badly”. This tanks handed to 5RTR. 28 Mk. IIA’s was to prove prophetic. taken over” though it does not Germany attacked on 6th record that the A10s were not in April but it was to be some days good order with many having badly before 3RTR were in action. Bad worn tracks. According to 3rd weather continued, moves were Armoured Brigade order of 24th planned then cancelled but from January the intention for the two the 11th they fell back losing tanks units was to mechanical problems including (i) 3 R Tanks is to remain in Egypt broken tracks which they could in B.T.E. reserve, composed as not repair as they had no spares. follows:Some German tanks were claimed • 1 Tank Mk IVA as knocked out though an attempt • 31 Tanks i.e. H.Q. & 2 Sqns Mk IIA to shoot down a Lufwaffe plane • 14 Tanks i.e. 1 Sqn Mk VIB (Lights) with a 2pdr was not successful. • 6 Tanks Mk IIACS By the 14th a composite Squadron (ii) 5 R Tanks is to form part of 3 was formed from eight tanks of Armd Bde in 2 Armd Div bound for A Squadron the sole remaining Libya forthwith. Composition:B Squadron tank and two from • 46 Tanks, H.Q. & 3 Sqns Mk IVA C Squadron plus two more from • 6 Tanks Mk IIACS Regimental HQ. These tanks were (iii) 14 Mk IIA Tanks are to be held steadily lost as they retreated. in general reserve by RAOC On the 27th those men who could reach the coast sailed to Crete. While not specified, the CS Back in Africa tanks would be split up in the Of the replacement tanks sent to various Squadron HQs. 3RTR’s North Africa, only a few were A10. Light Tanks were to come from Between 18th April and 11th July King’s Dragoon Guards “at a date 1941 336 vehicles were repaired or to be notified later”. In the event prepared by base workshops in the his did not happen, though there Middle East, 267 being new arrivals were changes to the softskin or B but of these only 27 A10 were Vehicle strengths. 5RTR used its repaired and another nine had A10CS in Squadron HQ but they been received from the UK. Tracks were found to be too slow to keep were a big problem for both A10 up with the Mk IVA they were and A9, and in June tanks awaiting passed to 2RTR. issue in depots were having tracks In May 2RTR were again in removed to supply urgent demands action during Operation BREVITY. for spares in frontline units. Its HQ had four Cruiser IVA, A Every available track was sent Squadron had four A9 Cruiser I forward, and tanks in depots had and twelve A10 Cruiser IIA while C to be modified to take “Australian Squadron had three Mk I, nine Mk tracks” which would delay issue IIA and four Mk IVA By the 16th to 7th Hussars. Unfortunately no their operational strenght was six details of these “Australian tracks” Cruiser I, 17 Mk IIA and seven Mk were recorded. IVA and more tanks were later lost They were still being used, mainly to mechanical problems. though usually in small numbers Greek Interlude in each unit at Regimental or The campaign in Greece was the Squadron HQ as CS vehicles. As one occasion when A10s were the examples, on 23rd March 5RTR main equipment of a regiment. had 53 A13 and of its six A10CS, 1st Armoured Brigade made up of only half of them fit for action 3RTR with A10 and 4th Hussars in while the others had problems with Light Tanks was the British part clutches and steering clutches. of a force including Australian 1RTR in Tobruk included A10 shortage of Cruisers with 6RTR using captured Italian tanks to make up their numbers. When the Germans pushed forward on 31st March, A10 formed a fair proportion of the Cruiser strength -

Preparation of tanks after landing included fitting them with sandshields and a rack for 2 gallon cans on the back of the hull plus repainting in the then-current “Caunter” scheme. In both A9 and A10, air flow through the engine was in from the left and out through the right louvre. To cut down the intake of dust, sandshields were only fitted on the left side as is clear from these photos. Other than dating them as November 1940 and listing them as an RTR battalion the original caption does not help identification, a later note saying it was 4th Armoured Brigade narrows the choice to 2RTR or 6RTR. No unit markings are visible and some of the turret tactical signs may have been painted out suggesting someone’s A Squadron used these tanks at some time and even the shades of the B Squadron signs appear to vary. E999 shows the signalling lamp raised through the small circular flap in the roof, E1002 shows work being done on the engine and one track is off for repair or replacement. Men in berets are probably the crew while the right-hand man in sun helmet could be an RAOC fitter? (IWM)

Men of 8th Hussars eat “Christmas Pudding” made from army biscuits, prunes, marmalade and rum alongside their A10 at the end of December 1940. The range of clothing is worth noting, including a greatcoat - it does get cold in the desert in winter! - pullovers and variations on civilian jackets worn over overalls with balaclavas and Service Dress caps. Pistol holsters also vary. About the only standard items are the plates and happy expressions, which may be because of the marmalade... (IWM)

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among its varied collection of AFVs though records often do not differentiate between them and A9. By the start of August There several reorganisations the Regiment consisted of • Regimental HQ - 4 Light Tanks • A Squadron - 2 A9, 5 A10 and 9 Light Tanks • B Squadron - 4 A9, 4 A10 and 8 Light Tanks • C Squadron - 13 A13 with two in workshops • D Squadron 7RTR attached - 17 Matildas including one in workshops, 4 Light Tanks Other units still used a few early Cruisers. During Operation Battleaxe, on July 15th 2RTR had 10 A9, 11 A10 and 21 A13 Mk II though by the dawn on the 17th they were down to 3 A9, 7 A10 and 5 A13’s. On 11th August, 7th Hussars had A9, A10 and A13 Mk II but their A9 were to be replaced with A10 As at 7th September, the Cruiser Tank State gave -

I A9 II A10 IV A13 VI A15 Totals

In Middle East 48 42 85 67 242

Under Repair 10 9 18 14 51

Enlarged from a more distant view this photo of an unidentified A10 taken near Derna in early February 1941 shows some interesting details including spare tyres for the road wheels tied to the turret, recognition flags on the lowered radio aerials and steel helmets hung over the headlights to protect them and cut down reflections. Apart from the B Squadron tac sign no markings are visible. (IWM)

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Running Schools Available etc 38 6 32 33 2 31 67 3 64 53 2 51 191 13 178

Lists of tanks expected to be received around this time included only one Mk II due in October and two more in November with most British Cruisers to be the new Mk VI Crusaders. On 5th October, A10s

p 06-12 A10Cruiser TT 088B.indd 11

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Seen in the background of a shot of tanks of the Tobruk garrison photographed in September 1941 is one of their A10s. Tanks were often dug in for protection and concealment, others including captured ones were used as pillboxes. (IWM)

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Think Tank - A10 Cruiser Tank B were only listed in 7th Hussars

some 40 including four Cruiser II - they had 18 plus 5 A9 and 13 and two Valentines were shipped Cruiser Mk IVA - with six more in to the island with more Cruiser reserve in 7th Armoured Division’s IVA coming in June and later more Ordnance Field Park and 15 more Valentines so that by 18th August in Base Ordnance Works although there were 18 Valentines and 45 the Tobruk tanks were not assorted Cruisers. These were used included. These would be included by the Yorkshire Hussars until they in the total in a report dated 4th were replaced by 4th Queen’s Own November 1941 recorded 52 Mk Hussars in January 1943. When II in the Middle East with four the Hussars left for Egypt in June earmarked for training, along with no tank unit was sent to take over. approximately 60 Mk I and 98 Mk In October permission was sought IV. Mk I was by this time obsolete to write then off as they were not and being withdrawn while the required in Cyprus or elsewhere others were obsolescent, Mk II was in the Middle East. They were slow and out of date while Mk IV probably scrapped locally. were old with thin armour. A detailed report on tanks lost Taken by a German soldier, this shot of BONNIE II of B Squadron 3RTR in Greece is one of several which have The next major offensive aimed in the Middle East up to the end appeared for sale on Ebay. Other photos of A10 in Greece show the small horizontal dust flap in front on the at relieving Tobruk was codeof 1942 recorded 85 Cruiser A10 headlight on the driver’s side, some vehicles having another on the opposite side. These vehicles were equipped as other “desert” tanks though they were painted in a variation of the Caunter camouflage scheme intended for named Operation CRUSADER and series - 2 Mk II, 72 Mk IIA and 11 use in the Sudan with Light Purple Brown over the basic Light Stone or a more unusual pattern using wavy lines in set for 19th November. This would IIACS. None were listed as being darker colours over the lighter shade. (Author’s Collection) include 7th Armoured Division lost at sea. At home all the early expanded with 22nd Armoured Cruisers Mks I to IV were regarded Brigade with its three Armoured as suitable for training only, by Brigades using a variety of tanks. January 1943 they to be used 4th Armoured Brigade mostly while spare parts allowed or by used the then-new American M3 cannibalisation. Finally on 11th Light Tank “Stuart”, 7th Armoured September 1943 it was ordered Brigade operated a mix of British that all remaining early Cruisers tanks including A9CS and A10 in were to be broken up for scrap as Brigade HQ, 7th Hussars had A10, soon as possible. A13 and Crusaders, 2RTR had Only one A10 survived being A13 and 6RTR used Crusaders scrapped. It survives in the while 22nd Armoured Brigade collection of the Tank Museum at were outfitted with Crusaders. Bovington. Its brass identification 1RTR in Tobruk still had its mix of plate states “Tank Cruiser tanks listed above. All these units Close Support Mark IIA Vickersfought over the next few weeks Armstrong Design O.P.821 WD No losing many tanks. Between 18th T-9264 Date 1940” which makes November and 26th December it one of the last Metropolitan1941, 7th Armoured Division’s Cammell Carriage & Wagon Co Ltd workshops received 17 Cruiser vehicles. I and II but only repaired two A10 Cruiser II A9 Cruiser I with the rest evacuated to Base Length 18’ 4” 19’ Ordnance Workshops. A few A10 were sent to Cyprus in April 1942 along with other older Cruisers and some Valentines. A series of Width 8’ 3.5” 8’ 2.5” photos showing “A Famous British Cavalry Regiment” exercising with them in May. At the time the tanks were Height 8’ 8.5” 8’ 8.5” Ground Clearance 18” 18” Swan Song manned by the Yorkshire Hussars, a Territorial Army unit. The Valentines appear to be without their 2pdr Weight Unladen 12 tons 4.5 cwt 10 tons 16.25 cwt guns but the A10s and A13s were fully equipped as for the desert including extra fuel tanks and in the case of After CRUSADER, the few A10s Weight Laden w/crew 13 tons 15.5 cwt 12 tons 7.25 cwt one A10 even sand shields on the left-hand side! (IWM) that remained in North Africa Max armour thickness 30mm 14mm soldiered on. As late as the end Speed 16mph 25mph of January 1942 it was thought that a number of Mk IIA Cruisers Engine AEC Type A179 could remain in operational use 6-cylinder producing 150hp at until the end of 1942, after that 2,200rpm they could be used for training only P.S. As a quick reference guide so spare parts would be needed for to the designations of early-war the whole of the year. Numbers on British tanks, the following may be hand appear confused, one report useful - n on 2nd February said there Original A-number “Type” from June’40 “Name” from July’41 were 26 Cruiser II with units A.9 Cruiser Mk I plus another 10 in Workshop, A.10 Cruiser Mk II while another on the 4th gave 15 A.11 Infantry Mk I (Matilda was used with units and 11 in Workshops. but the type was obsolete) As more British Crusaders, A.12 Infantry Mk II Matilda American Stuart M3 Light and A.13 Mk I Cruiser Mk III the new Grant M3 Medium tanks A.13 Mk II Cruiser Mk IV A.13 Mk III Cruiser Mk V Covenanter became available their value A.15 Cruiser Mk VI Crusader decreased. A.17 Light Mk VII Tetrarch Early in 1942 it was decided A.22 Infantry Mk IV Churchill to reinforce the Light Tanks and Valentine Infantry Mk III Valentine armoured cars on Cyprus with One one-off conversion was this A10 fitted with equipment to launch a 30’ folding bridge using a mechanical system driven by a power take-off from the engine. It was not adopted for service but the gear was fitted to older Cruiser tanks. By mid-April Valentines and Covenanters which saw service in the later years of WWII. (Tank Museum)

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Inside the Armour 1:35 scale A10 Cruiser • Kit No. 35056

The Editor tackles a full resin kit – Inside the Armour’s 1:35 scale A10 Cruiser tank.

AEGEAN CRUISER PART ONE - CONSTRUCTION

I

t might seem hard to believe considering the increasing avalanche of new releases over the last few years, but there are still some subjects that are not covered by mainstream injectionmoulded kits. Although I have a half a shelf full of resin Accurate Armour kits that have been superseded by nice new injection-moulded releases – Cromwell, Valentines, Centaur and more – much of my wish list for some early WWII and oddball military subjects remains unanswered. Several of these subjects were in the Cromwell Models range, but

I hadn’t had any luck getting hold of them. I was therefore delighted to learn that Inside the Armour was planning to supplement their multimedia vehicle interiors with resin conversions and full kits based on Cromwell’s back catalogue. The first of these 1:35 scale full kits was the Covenanter Mk.I/II/ IV. Kit No. 35045, released in early 2012 and a subject very high on my wish list. More recently, Inside the Armour has also released a 1:35 scale full kit of the A10 Cruiser Tank, kit no. 35056.

IN THE BOX Inside the Armour’s 1:35 scale A10 is made up from 124 resin parts, which includes 26 new resin parts compared to the original Cromwell Models release, plus an all-new photo-etched fret with 21 parts. The kit now includes three mudguard options, an optional fuel tank, all new suspension and turned metal barrels. I actually thought one of the large side mudguards was missing, but apparently this style was only fitted to the left side! The kit also includes a resin Commander half figure for the turret hatch, who is sculpted with

plenty of personality. The resin is well cast. Many parts are surrounded by featherlike resin flash, but this may be quickly removed with a sharp blade and/or a stiff brush. The hull is presented as a single large casting with a separate floor. Rivet detail (both on the hull and elsewhere) is even and impressive. There was only one casting flaw on my sample – the bottom rear corner of the turret is distorted, sort of melted, and rivet detail on one side of the turret rear was missing. Many of the smaller raised details such as handholds are cast

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onto the turret and hull, reducing the number of parts required. The tracks are supplied as resin lengths with individual links for wrapping around the drive sprockets and idler wheels. The turned metal 2 pdr and Besa gun barrels are lovely. Instructions are supplied in PDF format on a disk. These kick off with some general advice for working with resin and photoetched parts, followed by 28 steps, principally illustrations and large part numbers, guiding your way through construction. The different fittings for Greek, North African and Home Front A10s are clearly pointed out in Steps 27 and 28. No decals are included, and no camouflage options are suggested in the instruction sheet.

NAME YOUR POISON I have to admit to being a bit wary of the newest generation of mainstream injection-moulded 1,000 part + super kits. There is one quite valid argument that these kits offer unparalleled detail and great value in terms of money spent vs. hours of amusement. However, I always have one eye on the deadline, and the greater number of parts means a bigger time commitment on my part. On the other hand, a multimedia kit such as ITA’s A10 Cruiser can look very appealing in the box. Parts count is modest (only 124 resin parts in this case), much of the detail is cast in place, and the subject might not be available as a mass-market injection moulded kit. However, it is important to keep in mind that the trials associated with a limited production resin kit might not be obvious by simply perusing the parts. The challenges will often only reveal themselves during the build itself. In the end, there may be little difference in the time and effort required to build a 1,000 part injection moulded kit and a resin kit with 124 parts plus photo-etch. The real difference is the skill set, techniques and attitude required for the projects.

GETTING STARTED The first step in tackling ITA’s A10 Cruiser was to dispense with the casting blocks and fine resin waste. There is nothing fancy required here – just a bit of quality time spent with a sharp hobby knife, a razor saw and a sanding stick. Most of the parts can easily be separated from their casting blocks

and strips with nothing fancier than scoring and slicing with a sharp hobby knife. Once the parts have been removed, it is a simple matter to clean up the resin waste. Once again, a sharp knife will make short work of this in most instances. A handful of parts are connected via thicker casting blocks. A razor saw is the safest tool for this job. I spent around 3 - 4 hours in two sessions preparing the parts for assembly – a very worthwhile investment. Once they were cleaned up, the parts were separated into plastic ziplock bags to await assembly.

HULL AND RUNNING GEAR

The hull is essentially an impressive one-piece casting with much detail crisply cast in place. All the resin parts require clean-up, but it is not as difficult or as time consuming as it might look.

For my adhesive, I chose a slowsetting thick super glue available cheaply from my local supermarket (Selley’s Supa Glue in the 3ml tube). I also used Zip Kicker super glue accelerator to lock parts in place when required. I used three full 3ml tubes of glue during this project. The first parts to be assembled were the main hull and the separate floor. Fit was not exactly stellar in this area, with gaps at the back, front and sides, but the bottom of the hull will be completely out of view unless the model is turned upside down. Once the floor had been secured with thick slow setting super glue, the gaps were filled with Milliput two-part epoxy putty. The excess putty was wiped away with my improvised trowel (actually an old staple remover) and a damp fingertip. This cleared the way to starting work on the running gear. First, the shock absorbers (4 x Part 13) were detailed with resin bolts from an old Verlinden set, Some of the parts are cast onto strips, and many are surrounded by a featherlike wafer of resin waste. and short lengths of plastic rod. The road wheels were then glued to the main suspension units – two small wheels and one large on each. One of the centre mounts was warped, so I tried to bend it back into shape but it broke off in the process. Murphy’s Law compounded this problem, as I dropped the small broken arm onto The turned brass 2 pdr and Besa machine The new photo-etched fret offers some really useful details, the carpet and lost it forever (or at in particular the mesh heat cover for the muffler. gun barrels are simply luxurious. least until after I have finished the model)! Plan B involved drilling holes into the back of the orphaned road wheel and the suspension unit, and The main components from mounting the wheel using a short one of the four suspension units. Note that the resin length of copper rod. extension on the shock My main focus when assembling absorber is part of the the suspension units was to make suspension – don’t cut it off! sure that all three wheels touched A

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Inside the Armour 1:35 scale A10 Cruiser • Kit No. 35056

B the ground at the same time. This

objective was met with three of the units, but the large road wheel on the fourth suspension was significantly higher than the two smaller wheels. To correct this problem, I removed the middle wheel, drilled a higher mounting point on the suspension unit, drilled a corresponding hole in the back of the small middle wheel and pinned the wheel in line with the other two. Voila! Problem solved. When test-fitting the suspension units and the tracks, I found that the wheels were a very tight squeeze between the guide teeth. A little extra space was gained by sanding the inside of the guide teeth with an appropriately sized coarse sanding stick. The instructions suggest a peculiar sequence for assembling the suspension units, tracks and hull, but it works. First, join two

lengths of track, making sure that the edge with the cast-on track pin detail is facing outwards. Next, glue the wheels from the assembled suspension units onto the track. The instructions advise some measurements from outer wheel axle on one side to outer wheel axle on the other, and also the gap between the centre wheels. However, when test fitting my parts I came up with different measurements. On my kit, the distance between the two outer wheel axles was around 82 mm (84 m in the instructions); while the gap between the two centre wheels was 4 mm (the instructions suggest 2 mm). I think that the best policy is for you to thoroughly test-fit and make the measurements yourself. Before gluing the suspension units to the hull, the photo-etched mounts “A” and “B” are folded into

Verlinden produces a set of nuts and bolts that are designed to be sliced off their solid resin backing sheet.

One of these nuts was glued to the end of each shock absorber. A short length of plastic rod was also glued in place.

Each of the sprocket holes needs to be cleared The track lengths may be carefully scored and sliced of resin waste. The tip of a sharp hobby blade off their casting strips using the same knife. When makes short work of this task. fitting the tracks, take care to make sure that the edge with the cast-on track pin detail is facing outward.

Test fitting revealed a very tight fit between the road wheels and the track guide teeth. A coarse sanding stick was used to slightly widen the gap. The instructions suggest a most peculiar sequence for assembling the running gear and tracks. First, two lengths of track are glued together. Then, the two suspension units are glued directly to the tracks. The kit’s origins are immortalised inside the resin hull.

The bottom of the hull is sealed with a separate resin floor.

The fit is not particularly good, but the gaps are quickly filled using Milliput two-part epoxy putty.

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The mounts for the main suspension units are provided as photo-etched parts.

The edges are folded down using a pair of flat-nosed electrical pliers.

The mounts were fixed in place with thick, slow setting super glue.

shape and glued onto the lower hull; and the two triangular resin return roller mounts are fitted to the photo-etched mounts and the hull. Another anomaly presents itself here. The instructions make no mention of the third (centre mounted) return roller on each side. I only noticed the third roller in reference photos after construction was well underway and the running gear was complete. I thought perhaps that these were not fitted to all A10

The triangular return roller mounts were glued to the hull, then the suspension units, still attached to the track, were super-glued in place. Be prepared to do plenty of test fitting and fiddling – it is a bit tricky! The track links are also brittle and very prone to breakage.

Cruiser tanks, but examination of reference photos confirmed that they were. Fortunately, Inside the Armour actually provides the third return rollers and their mounts in the box – they are just not identified in the construction sequence. In a classic case of “do as I say and not as I do”, this would be the ideal time to install the centre rollers (Parts 11 x 2) and their mounts (Parts 47 x 2). In Step 9, instructions suggest that seven individual links should be glued to the drive sprockets but I found that six worked better

Individual links are also supplied.

for me. Similarly, the instructions recommend five links for the idler wheels, but I used four instead. At this stage I drilled and pinned the idler wheel. This allowed the wheel to be adjusted when the track lengths were glued to the top and bottom of the idler. Now the drive sprockets were glued in place and the suspension units, complete with the bottom track runs, were test-fitted, jiggled, fiddled and finally glued into place with equal proportions of super glue and bad language. The track length broke apart into several

pieces on one side, so some running repairs were in order. With the suspension units glued to the hull, there was now a small gap on the track run between the two middle wheels. An appropriate width slice was cut from a spare track link. This was glued into the space as a shim. Over the course of the following few hours, the track lengths – both top run and bottom run – broke apart on several occasions. Just be patient and all will be well. Handle the tracks with care and reassure yourself that the breakages can A

The instructions suggest seven individual links should be glued to the sprockets but I found that six worked better for me.

Similarly, the instructions recommend five links for the idler wheels, but I used four instead. Note that I have drilled and pinned the idler wheel. This allowed the wheel to be adjusted when the track lengths were glued to the top and bottom of the idler.

The tracks are taking shape now. Note that the middle return roller is not fitted here. The instructions make no mention of this middle roller, although the parts are supplied and it is clearly fitted in every reference photo I can find.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Inside the Armour 1:35 scale A10 Cruiser • Kit No. 35056

The photo-etched muffler guard was annealed over a candle to soften the metal, making it easier to bend into shape.

Some micro-folding is required for the driver’s hatch locking hinge.

B be fixed. Fortunately, ITA supplies

plenty of spare lengths that can be used for repairs. In fact, if you are building the North Africa and Greece version with the big sand shield on the port side and want to save yourself some trouble, you can get away with not fitting with the portside top track run at all. Nobody will ever notice it is missing behind the sand shield! Matching up the straight runs with the idler wheels and the drive sprockets was another fiddly task, but there were a few pleasant surprises. I thought that I would have to heat the tracks with a hairdryer to bend the straight lengths – always risky when surrounded by other fine resin

The two-part muffler guard was bent with the assistance of Mission Models Multi-Tool (Small) and UMM-USA’s Rollmade II Rolling Tool.

The finished muffler in place. I am still not satisfied with the positioning of the exhaust pipe entering the muffler though.

parts – but I found that there was enough flex for the tracks to be bent without heating. Also, the pinned idler wheels were a tight fit and did not require gluing, so they could be rotated to obtain the best fit with the top and bottom lengths.

Flying Finish Although the running gear presented a number of challenges, it looked good when it was finished. Once this was out of the way, construction proceeded very quickly. The hull fittings were glued in place per the instructions. No real problems here, although folding the locking mechanism for the driver’s hatch was challenging. I found the best way to do this was

The legs are a tight squeeze on the front fender. I found the best chance to find enough clear space was to slice off all the raised detail in the area.

to interlock the two photo-etched parts and bend them around a piece of fine copper wire. The muffler and its two-part photo-etched heat shield went together exactly as advertised. The photo-etched parts were annealed (softened) over a candle before they were bent into shape using Mission Models Multi-Tool (Small) and UMM-USA’s Rollmade II Rolling Tool. The holes in the edge of the mesh guard clicked into place over the corresponding resin mounting plugs. Nice. I had some trouble getting the pipe from the hull to the muffler to line up properly. Despite repeated test-fitting and some trimming, I am still not really happy with the result.

More brass origami is required for the legs of the fuel drum. The curved bend was made first, then the legs were bent to the appropriate angle. This is what it should look like on the inward facing side…

…and the other side, viewed from underneath.

The fuel drum glued in place. The drum overhangs the edge of the fender.

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I decided to make a rack for these cans from plastic strip, angle and scrap sheet.

The lengths were cut using my NorthWest Short Line “The Chopper II”.

Resicast produces a gorgeously detailed set of British 4 gallon “flimsies”.

The only other tricky aspect of the hull was the external fuel drum. I have provided a couple of photos showing the required shape of the photo-etched mounts. Also, I found that the raised detail cast on the front portside fender needed to be sliced off in order to provide enough clear space for the mounts and the fuel drum. I damaged one of the resin headlights when cleaning up the part, so I contrived replacements from Italeri’s Crusader kit. This kit contains a spare set of lights, which I drilled and mounted on copper wire. These are actually a later style, but it won’t matter as the lenses will eventually be covered by helmets. Two fire extinguishers are provided but no mention of these is made in the instructions. I fitted them to the front starboard and rear portside fenders. There are also two mysterious shapes with woodgrain texture included – possibly jack blocks but I left these in the box. The turret was very straightforward once the repairs had been made to the distorted

bottom corner. The flawed resin was sanded flat with a coarse sanding stick, then the imperfections were covered with thin plastic sheet cut to size. New rivets were punched from my Waldron Sub-Miniature Punch and Die Set, then fixed to the back of the turret using super glue.

A FEW FINISHING TOUCHES A number of wartime reference photos show A10s in the Western Desert and Greece fitted with a rack for 4 gallon flimsies (cans for petrol, oil or water) on the back of the hull. Although I could not find a really good photo, I could see enough detail to guess at the approximate size and structure of these improvised racks. I started by cutting a floor for the rack from styrene sheet. I made sure the depth was sufficient to fit a flimsy, while the width matched the rear of the hull. Dimensions were around 7.5 mm x 47.5 mm. Next, four 11 mm lengths of .060” plastic right angle were cut and glued into each corner. These were reinforced with fine

Bolts were formed using the smallest punch from my Historex Hexagonal Punch and Die set.

A

The components were assembled using Tamiya Extra Thin Liquid Cement.

A length of angle strip was glued underneath the rack to form a solid mounting point with the rear of the hull. The rack glued in place. Note that I have also installed a square piece of plastic next to the muffler. This will eventually carry the Arm of Service sign.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Inside the Armour 1:35 scale A10 Cruiser • Kit No. 35056

The turret bottom blanking plate is riddled with gaps, but it doesn’t really matter as you will never see it on the assembled model. More important is that the rebate for the stowage box is not sufficient to let the turret sit down properly on the hull.

New rivet heads were punched from my Waldron Sub-Miniature Punch and Die Set.

My faithful old Dremel Motor Tool blew up during my last project, so it was time for a new one. Guess which is which…

After the area was sanded down, the back and side faces of the turret stowage boxes were replaced with strips of plastic cut to size. The new rivet heads were added at this stage too.

B horizontal plastic strips. Two plain

The cutting wheel attachment was used to grind the rebate to a point where the turret would sit down on the hull.

plastic strips were also fitted to the back of the rack, as well as a backing plate. A strip of angle was also glued across the length of the bottom of the floor. This acted as a positive mounting point between the rack and a convenient ridge on the back of the hull. Hexagonal rivets punched from my Historex Punch and Die set finished off the rack. The final touch was to add a square cut from scrap plastic on the rear fender. This will carry the Arm of Service sign

INTERMISSION

The bottom of the turret displayed a casting flaw. It looked as if it was melted, and some rivet head detail was missing from the rear face of the turret too.

I do enjoy a good quality multimedia model, and Inside the Armour’s 1:35 scale A10 Cruiser certainly falls into this category with its excellent casting, high level of detail and generally sound fit. Despite some anxious moments (well, perhaps hours) while working on the tracks, this has been a very enjoyable and satisfying project so far. Multimedia kits almost always demand some level of improvisation and creativity. They are a great way to expand your modelling skills. ■

NEXT TIME: Next time, Brett will scratch build a little stowage, add a couple of crew figures, and paint the model.

Modelspec Inside the Armour 1:35 scale A10 Cruiser Kit No. 35056 Accessories & Materials Used Resicast Item No. 35.2343 – 4 Gallon Flimsies. 8 x Shell, 8 x MT Verlinden Item No. 0075 – Nuts and Bolts Evergreen Strip Styrene: No.101 - .010 x .030” Strip; No. 124 - .020 x .080” Strip; No. 218 - .020” Rod; No. 219 - .025” Rod; No. 291 Angle .060”. Evergreen plastic sheet (scraps from larger sheets) EF Designs Strip Styrene: 6mm x 0.25mm Fine copper wire and fuse wire (various thicknesses) Tools Used Waldron Sub-Miniature Punch and Die Set Historex Hexagonal Punch and Die Set Mission Models Multi-Tool (Small) NorthWest Short Line “The Chopper II” UMM-USA Rollmade II Rolling Tool CMK and Tamiya Saws Flat Nose Electrical Pliers Modelling Products Used Tamiya Extra Thin Liquid Cement Revell Contacta Cement Selley’s Super Glue Zip Kicker Super Glue Accelerator Milliput White two-part epoxy putty Tamiya Surfacer Tamiya Masking Tape (6mm and 10mm) ✓ Accurate; very high quality casting; relatively low parts count; link and length tracks; useful options; illustrated instructions; high level of exterior detail; interesting subject; includes Commander figure. ✗ Distorted casting on bottom corner of the turret; brittle track lengths; some vagueness and omissions in instructions. Available from Thanks to Inside the Armour for the sample www.insidethearmour.com

Rating

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Multimedia kits almost “alw ays demand some

level of improvisation and creativity. They are a great way to expand your modelling skills... A little more detail has been added to the stowage boxes here.

”

Only minimal filler was required, mainly in the places where the sand skirts met the mudguards and track guards.

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KIT PREVIEW

Hobbyboss 1:35 Soviet T-26 Light Infantry Tank • Kit No. 82496

The T-26 saw widespread service in the Spanish Civil War and in the opening stages of the Second World War. Andy King examines HobbyBoss’ new 1:35 scale kit of this important tank.

STALIN’S IBERIAN

SPORTS CAR T

he British Vickers Mk E 6 ton tank was designed by Vickers-Armstrong in 1928 and although the British Army didn’t place any orders it was exported to many other countries including Poland, Brazil, Japan and China with the Soviet Union developing it further as the T-26. Initially the tank featured twin turrets armed with a machine gun in each one (Type A) or a single turret equipped with a short barrelled 47mm 3 pdr gun (Type B) but in 1933 the Soviets put a larger turret on it equipped with a 45mm cannon and 7.62mm MG (T-26 Mod 1933). A logical follow on to Trumpeter’s earlier twin-turreted T-26 Model 1931 release, this is the Model 1933 (although it says Model 1935 on the box) and is an early production version featuring a riveted hull and gun mantlet, square turret hatches and un-armoured headlight, later models having a welded hull and mantlet and a round turret hatch. In the typically sturdy cardboard box you have 12 sprues and a one piece lower hull moulded in green styrene with some delicate parts wrapped in foam, 16 in brown styrene, a bag full of individual track links, one clear sprue, a small sheet of etched brass and a decal sheet. There is also an A4 sheet of paper for the two colour schemes. All parts are well Markings are supplied for two Spanish moulded with some

traces of flash here and there and the only mould-pin marks visible are on the main gun and underside of the fenders, along with other holes for various bits fixed onto the top of them. Speaking of holes, it’s nice to see that HobbyBoss has made the effort of tooling hollow items such as the gun barrel, exhausts and horn. Dimensionally the model checks out okay length-wise but the width is about 2mm too narrow, which in my (very humble) opinion, is not a deal breaker. Moulded detail is good however to be nit-picky the rivet detail could have been a bit sharper and the bolt heads are not that well defined, however the only alternative is to remove them all and replace them with styrene ones made using a hexagonal punch and die set. The instructions follow a typical sequence and starts with the running gear. The suspension looks quite delicate and made to be moveable according to the amount of ‘no cement’ labels on the sheet so this should be good for a giggle or two, especially when putting the tracks together. The individual tracks are very small and will require careful removal. To put them together you need to insert an even smaller pin in either side although my Tip of the Day here would be to insert the pin, glue it THEN cut it off the sprue when the glue has set. There is a jig included to help with the alignment of the links and note that the track lengths are handed too. Moving on, and the rest of the hull goes together with some etched detail here and there including the fender support

brackets which is nice as moulded styrene ones can look quite clunky, especially on such a small tank like this. The turret is a two-piece item and the hatches can be modelled open or closed but as there is no interior detail you may want to keep them shut. The large aerial for the 71-TK-1 radio that goes on the outside is moulded in one piece and will need some care to clean up the mould seams and remove from the sprue. The barrel is one piece and also has mould seams top and bottom so care will be needed when removing them so as not to ’flatspot’ it. Also if you are choosing the more colourful paint scheme then it is worth leaving the gun mantlet (part L2) off to make painting easier. On another nitpicky note the three lifting rings on the turret top are moulded standing up whereas looking at photo’s of the real vehicle they lie flat. It is great to see an injection moulded kit of an important ‘between the wars’ type and HobbyBoss has done a good job with this one. The chassis was used for quite a few versions plus the amount of different operators will no doubt lead to more aftermarket decal sheets appearing. This looks to be another excellent little model from HobbyBoss and has just gone to the top of my ‘to do’ list. Highly recommended and hopefully we’ll see more pre-war types appearing soon. ■

Thanks to Creative Models for the review sample www.creativemodels.co.uk

The one-piece lower hull will speed things up.

The lower section of the turret. Note the nice rolled steel texture.

The clothes rail antenna. Take care when removing this from the sprues.

The track links are small and designed to be workable.

The pins for the track links are positively tiny!

Nice sharp detail on the drive sprocket.

Photo-etched parts are supplied with the kit.

Civil War vehicles.

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The Standard Sergeant insignia for a US Marine Sergeant is distinguished by A One Stripe, B Two Stripes, C Three Stripes This is open to all our readers worldwide. You’ve got until 4th September to enter. Competition rules Employees/volunteers working for CMK, MPM Production and associated companies and their families are not permitted to enter. The first (correct) entry drawn will win. Entries are limited to one person per household/person. The winner’s name will be published in a future edition of Tamiya Model Magazine International. All entries received must reach ADH Publishing by 4th September when the draw takes place. Open to readers worldwide.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Meng Merkava Mk.3 BAZ w/Nochri Dalet • Kit no. TS-005

BIG BAD B Anthony Sheedy feeds his Israeli armour addiction with MENG’s latest addition to the Merkava family – the Mk.3 BAZ with Mine Roller.

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Meng’s Merkava Mk.3 BAZ features striking box art.

BAZ The tank was already “one of the toughest

looking vehicles around. The mine roller just adds more menace to the already intimidating Merkava 3...

”

B

ecause it can shoot down attack helicopters. If that isn’t enough to make the Merkava 3 BAZ bad, then I’m out of ideas of what will. Hang on, I’ve got one. Let’s add a mine roller. It’s even more impressive because BAZ doesn’t really need this anti-air capacity currently, but should any of the new powers emerging from the Arab Spring Awakening decide to action their rhetoric and attack Israel then the IDF can rest comfortably knowing they’ve got the capacity to shoot down the enemy’s air cover (that’s assuming the IDF’s formidable F-16I Sufa hasn’t got there first) then roll up their mine fields before lobbing in shells and a section of infantry to mop up any enemy fighters who are too dedicated to scamper. BAZ (Falcon or Barak Zolher in Hebrew, “Shining or glaring lightning” depending on which Internet translator you use) is the codename of the Knight Mk .3 fire control system (FCS). This new system (still using the 120mm smooth bore barrel) includes an auto tracking and independent, fully stabilised, panoramic Commander’s sight (much like the Abrams) that allows the Merkava to have an actual hunter/killer capability. The BAZ FCS allows for multiple target tracking and engagement, while it and its target are both moving. The two downed drones stored at the Merkava skunk works are testament to the effectiveness of this system. For the state of the art FCS to work, new sophisticated ammunition also had to be developed and produced by the Israeli Arms Industry, including the 1st official use of depleted uranium in the APFSDS-T (Depleted Uranium Armor Piercing Fin Stabilized Discarding Sabot – Tracer). Other than the Commander’s rotating sight, another main difference to the earlier model Merkava 3 turret is that the smaller oval shaped loaders hatch has been replaced with a larger round hatch similar to the Commander’s, which allows better access. The chunkiness of the front of the hull is due to the engine being mounted in the front of the vehicle, which is unique to the Merkava variant of MBT’s and this feature is enhanced on A

The new turret parts.

The large single upper and lower hull pieces.

This kit includes well-moulded tarpaulins – a nice touch!

The clear sprue.

The new vinyl tracks are well detailed, but they are too long for the running gear.

The kit decals are superb.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Meng Merkava Mk.3 BAZ w/Nochri Dalet • Kit no. TS-005

Tamiya tape and Blu-Tack were used to mask the nonslip free areas.

The MENG hull with Games Workshop non-slip applied.

B the Merkava 3 due to the new

thickened driver and engine armour package. Originally the front mounted engine was to allow extra protection for the driver, as well as a rearward escape route for the crew. After the lessons learned during the 2006 intifada, the IDF has scarified some ammo to enable an infantry section to be secreted in the rear of the tank to protect it against terrorist attack during the night or while operating in built up areas.

SPRUES MENG kicked off this heavyweight family with the poster boy of IDF Armour in the form of the Merkava

3D BAZ (see issue 78 of MMI), which is the latest incarnation of the tank. I am sure that their decision to release a prequel in the form the more commonly seen slab sided Merkava 3 BAZ is a reasonable idea sales-wise. Adding the Nochri Dalet mine roller will guarantee more kits walk off the shelf due to there being many IDF subjects where the roller is used, not just Merkava. The “Nochri Dalet or roughly translated “Foreigner, Model D”, mine roller makes a tough looking tank even tougher and once fitted the roller adds nearly a half a length to the tank. The thick chains and cables are used to assist keep

the roller heading in the desired direction, however extensive driver training in all environments must be undertaken as incorrect manoeuvring will damage the roller or tank or both.. The MENG roller is the later type D (Dalet) easily identified by the reinforced boxed construction of the arms, rather than welded tube construction seen on the earlier version, which was based off the Russian KMT-4 roller. As with MENG’s previous Merkava, the modeller will have to apply non-slip to the model. This is a fairly simple process, with masking of the areas where there is no non-slip being the most time consuming. I chose to use

Tamiya tape and Blu-tac to mask the nonslip free areas and Games Workshop texture paint to add the texture, however other modellers have used fine sand to great effect. The beauty of using sand over texture paint is that one can remove the non-slip in high wear areas to create a damaged surface in a more realistic way. Many modellers wished MENG had added the tarps for the stowage bins on the hull and turret along with crew weapons and ammo boxes to their Merkava 3D. I was very pleased to see MENG listened to its customers and added these details for the BAZ release. Like any good politician

I chose to use the Blast Merkava 3 update set to speed up construction. This includes new turret basket and ammo boxes, amongst other things.

Panzer Aces supplied the excellent IDF water can, while the aerial and base was taken from the Aussie Armour set of the same name.

The Blast smoke detectors are a welcome addition due to the scale thickness of the door.

A spent case catch bag is a must have addition to IDF barrel mounted .50 cals, and this item is included in the detail set.

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The MENG tracks are too long, and therefore the model really can only be built without the side skirts on. Once on though, this oversight is hidden.

I used 20 thou plastic rod for the width indictors, which appears over scale until painted.

Side skirt securing chains were added using left over ball armour chain from my Academy Merkava 4.

The chunkiness of the front of the Merkava is due to the front mounted engine, a feature unique to Merkava.

though, MENG has given with one hand and taken with the other. Sadly, the beautiful individual links found in the 3D kit have been substituted for rubber band tracks, which I’m sad to report are too long for the models running gear. This isn’t a problem if you plan to add the side skirts, however it’s still a let down. Due to time constraints, I chose to use the excellent Blast Merkava 3 update set to speed up construction and improve on kit details. This includes new turret and hull stowage baskets, ammo boxes, crew weapons with mounts, smoke grenade launchers and grenade thrower and cage. The set itself is worth it for the new cage, as the kits one-piece moulded item is quite average. The Blast smoke detectors are a welcome addition due to the scale thickness of the door and the well-detailed grenades. I added wiring conduits

to the launchers from lead wire along with conduit brackets made from lead foil and detailed with a Panther road wheel nut and bolt. I chose to add a Panzer Aces IDF water can, which fits perfectly into the kit mount, while the vertical kit aerial mount was replaced with an angled one taken from the Aussie Armour aerial set. The MENG .50 cal machine gun and mount are exceptionally well done, however a spent case catch bag is a must-have addition to IDF barrel mounted .50 cals. Fortunately this item is included in the BLAST detail set. I also added the manual firing and cocking cables to the solenoids and cocking handle of the MG using copper wire. Other details on the turret include the rectangular armour code plaques welded to the roof armour module. The kit gives you the option of adding width indicators to the A

The “Nochri Dalet” or roughly translated “Foreigner” mine roller makes a tough looking tank even tougher. The thick chains and cables are used to keep the roller heading in the desired direction.

The MENG roller is the later type (Mk 3) easily identified by the reinforced boxed construction of the arms, rather than tube.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Meng Merkava Mk.3 BAZ w/Nochri Dalet • Kit no. TS-005

Aerial view showing the mass of the Merkava 3 BAZ and Nochri.

B hull, and in my

opinion the overall look of the Merkava 3 is enhanced with this feature. I used 20 thou plastic rod for the width indictor poles, which appears over scale in the photos but once painted in flat black looks fits the part nicely. Also added to the hull were side skirt securing chains, a feature achieved using left over ball and chain armour chain from my Academy Merkava 4 turret.

COLOURS I wanted to represent the model in muddy conditions, where mud and crud would build up on hull, while the rain washed upper surfaces would appear clean. An example of this can be seen in the contrast between the smoke chargers and turret/hull roof. Excellent reference can be found of muddy Merkava’s in AFV Modellers must have “Modelers guide to the Merkava 3D” where pictures have been taken of filthy Merkava 3’s at a firing range in a long ago acquired Syrian army base. With construction complete, I started the weathering process by mixing up mud and crud made from static grass, Humbrol flat brown paint and yellow concrete sand to brush onto the areas of the tank where it collects: suspension, front

and rear of the lower hull, hull and turret horizontal surfaces where the crew drags it up during entry to the tank. After the mud was dry I primed the vehicle in the familiar grey stuff. The model includes markings for 2 Nochri equipped vehicles, one from the Barak Brigade and the other from the 460 Brigade during the 2009 ‘Cast Lead’ operation. The kit decals are some of the best I’ve used; thin, minimal excess film and strong enough to withstand a bit of moving around to get the positioning correct. I honestly do not see the need to substitute these decals unless you want to depict a different vehicle entirely, in which case there are many more options available now with the new Echelon items being the pick of the litter in my opinion. I would not recommend following MENG’s colour advice in the first marking option colour as I found the Gunze H27 ‘Sandy Brown’ far too brown to be realistic. My

recommendation would be to follow the colour advice for option two, which I think is far more accurate. That being said, I wanted to go out on a limb so I used the Vallejo “Israeli” primer as my base coat and weathered from it. The original primer colour was lightened with Life Color 1973 sand before clear coating with Future, applying the excellent kit decals followed by another coat of clear before adding various washes. I airbrushed on Tamiya Buff and Flat Earth around the lower hull and under the turret before applying the same colour over the model heavily diluted with tap water. Using a hair drying to speed up the drying time allowed me to start applying the Rembrandt pastel chalks and oil wash chasers to the tank. This mix really started to add depth and tonal variation to the mud and crud as well as the vehicles surfaces. Like on the real

vehicle, the pastel chalk stuck more to the anti-slip coated surfaces than not creating an effect where the smooth surfaces looked to be washed clean by the rain whereas the dirt from these surfaces collected and stayed in the non-slip. Streaks were added to the vertical surfaces using the same oil paints to simulate the exhaust, fuel and oil staining commonly seen on active service Merkavas. The vinyl tracks actually look quite good under paint and I proceeded to treat them with the same colours and washes used on the tank, but with gun metal highlights on the guide teeth and links. The IDF would pick up and drop off mine rollers, rather than assign one to a specific tank. This is because every tank was fitted out to be able to push one in case the previous Nochri equipped tank broke down etc. and to achieve this I painted the tank and roller to look slightly different in colour. As no one ‘owned’ the mine roller, they do tend to have a little bit more of an unloved appearance, with less maintenance or care given than the tank. This can be seen in the way chains and rollers go rusty or the red painted service areas can turn a more pink as the paint oxidises with age. The rusty, faded and oxidised paint was achieved by adding more white and ochre

The IDF would pick up and drop off rollers, rather than assign one to a specific tank. This is because every tank was fitted out to be able to push one in case the previous mine tank broke down etc. Thus I painted the tank and roller to look slightly different in colour.

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Modelspec Meng Merkava Mk.3 BAZ w/Nochri Dalet Kit no. TS-005 Tools and Accessories Used Games Workshop texture paint. Tamiya Grey Primer Fine Tamiya Arcylic Paints Vallejo Arcylic Paints Windsor and Newtons Oil Paint Rembrandt Pastel Chalk References: I wanted to represent the model in muddy conditions, and added built up mud and crud on the upper surfaces while clean on the rain washed areas. This can be seen in the contrast between the smoke chargers and turret/hull roof.

The kit decals are some of the best I’ve used; thin, minimal film excess film and strong enough to withstand a bit of moving around to get the positioning right.

Merkava Siman 3 by Desert Eagle Publishing Merkava, by Tankograd IDF Armoured Vehicles by Tankograd Merkava 3 by Museum Ordinace Online: www.idf-modelling.com www.supervideo.com/MXCD-ROMOSa.htm ✓ High Level of detail and accuracy, mine roller. ✗ Absence of non-slip. Available from Thanks to Meng Model for the sample www.meng-model.com

Rating The back deck showing oil and fuel staining, the Blast smoke launchers detail isn’t apparent until they’re painted.

washes over the base colour as well as painting the service areas pink and adding red and white washes to achieve that faded out oxidised appearance. Chips and scratches were applied around the drive sprockets, hatches and high wear areas with a fine brush and sponge using Vallejo German Black-Brown and Red Primer. Final weathering consisted of oil and fuel staining and spatter around the engine and back deck along with a good oiling of all the machine guns. Aerials were made from brass rod detailed with cable ties and securing rope before

Blasts rear bins and tool bag are also great under paint, as well as speeding up construction due to them being one piece.

adding a figure from Verlinden’s modern IDF tank crew set with a replacement Hornet head set low in the cupola. For a finishing touch, I added an Israeli flag from Echelon’s new IDF decal range, and was suitable impressed with the realism of its fall.

The tank was already one of the toughest looking vehicles around. The mine roller just adds more menace to the already intimidating Merkava 3. The Meng Dynasty continues. Long may it reign! ■

I added an Israeli flag from Echelons new IDF decal range, and was suitable impressed with the realism of its fall.

LAST WORDS MENG was onto a winner with their Merkava 3D, and they’ve backed it up strongly with this new release.

The mine roller just adds more menace to the already intimidating Merkava 3.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Brach Models French R35 / PzKpfw 35R (f) • Kit No. BM 085

COLOURFUL

RENAULT Steve Zaloga finishes the resin 1:35 scale Brach Models Renault R35 kit in a colourful camouflage scheme.

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A

fter having built a few of the old Heller Renault R35 kit, I was pleased to see that Brach Model was releasing a series of high-end resin kits covering various models of this famous little tank. I settled on their kit BM 085 which covers the late R35 with the APX-R1 turret along with the Renaultpattern unditching tail. The kit is a multi-media effort, mainly in resin, but also with a nice photo-etch fret and a small decal sheet. The kit is not inexpensive at around Euro 82 ($100), and I ordered mine from Blast in Paris. Overall, the kit was up to Brach's usual high standard. The kit comes with numerous options. The turret can be done in any of the standard versions including the original APX-R with the "fente Estienne" diascopes, up through the APX-R1 with the later 37mm gun and the slit-style episcopes. The kit includes a full turret and hull interior; there is a separate upgrade kit for the engine. All the hatches are separate including the engine area.

ASSEMBLING THE KIT Brach's resin moulding is excellent. I had no problems with bubbles, and the kit design minimizes the need for a lot of sawing to remove parts from the mould sprues. I started with the interior. I built this mainly out-of-the-box and the kit provides all of the essential elements. Colouring information is sparse. I got to see the insides of the Saumur R-35 last summer, and it was basically painted in white with the transmission tunnel finished in a medium industrial green colour, and the gun assembly in the usual army dark green. Once I had the interior finished, I sealed up the basic hull parts. My preferred glues for resin kits are a gel version of ethyl cyranoacrylate (CA) glues. the particular brand I use is BSI InstaCure IC-Gel. I find that this works better than liquid CA glues as the gel allows parts to be positioned more easily. One of the main drawbacks of CA glues is that they are not especially strong to sheer force. So for some major assemblies, I reinforce the joint A

A view of the hull interior after painting but before attaching the left side.

A view of the finished interior. The kit provides the 37mm ammunition as individual pieces!

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Brach Models French R35 / PzKpfw 35R (f) • Kit No. BM 085

The most frustrating aspect of the project was the individual link track which were pure torture to assemble. Small resin link-to-link track are simply a bad idea.

B with 5-minute, two-part epoxy.

Once I had completed the hull interior, I turned to the suspension. The Brach kit is particularly good in this case, offering much better detail than the old Heller kit. Furthermore, the assembly is very simple. The exception to this is the kit track. The kit includes link-to-link resin tracks. Although the detail is quite good, resin link-to-link tracks are a horror to assemble. They are intended to click together, but the material is so soft that after putting a few links together, the joint between the links has been damaged. As a result, the track lengths do not hold together very well. In the case of plastic link-to-link tracks, this can be solved with some liquid cement which stays soft long enough to get a whole set of tracks together. The only way to get resin tracks together is CA glue or epoxy, which completely ruins the opportunity to drape these tracks for proper sag. My solution was to "paint" small lengths of tracks with a solution of carpenters glue, water and flow enhancer. This keeps them together well enough to get them on the suspension, after which they can be fixed in place with very thin CA glue. This was torture, and as a result, I would not recommend this kit for anyone but the most patient craftsmen, or for modellers willing to throw away the resin track and buy a set of the much easier Modelkasten track. I never thought I would refer to Modelkasten track as "easy", but compared to these misbegotten tracks, they are a pleasure to assemble. Once I had the tracks in place, I primed the suspension with some Tamiya Khaki Drab before adding the fenders. After all the trouble with the tracks, the rest of the kit was straightforward to assemble. The turret is very nice, but after finishing the model, I began to have suspicions about its size. On comparing it to the old Heller kit and the newer Bronco Hotchkiss H39 kit, it seems that it is based on the Bronco kit. The Bronco kit is much better detailed than the old Heller kit which has led many modellers to believe it is more accurate. Unfortunately, it was based on an unreliable set of plans that have a major dimensional flaw. The Bronco model is too narrow, and this led to other distortions in sizes, including the turret. I only realized this after painting the model, so by this stage it was too late to do much about it.

The finished model prior to painting.

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I attempted to paint some of the larger areas on the tank using the airbrush. I chose to use light grey on the turret since it was a good start with the other lighter colours. Likewise, a pale yellow in the center worked well. The hull front and rear were in standard army green as was the unditching tail.

This is how the model appeared after the basic camouflage painting was completed. The problem with these colourful schemes is that they appear to toy-like. Weathering is definitely needed.

COLOURS AND MARKINGS One reason I wanted to build this model was the possibility of using one of the very colourful Renault schemes from the 1936-37 period. The French author Pascal Danjou has pioneered the study of French tank camouflage, and had a nice article on this subject in his magazine "Minitracks". In addition, the French magazine Batailles & Blindees had a wonderful piece on the 21e Batallion des Chars de Combat by Laurent Deneu (No. 37, June-July 2010). I decided to do the tank of the 3rd Company commander, Capt. Perat. I airbrushed the basic colours, but then did most of the rest by hand-painting with Vallejo acrylic. The black lines between the camouflage patterns were done with a Faber Castell PITT Type F (Fine) artist pen. This pen uses India ink which is permanent and won't bleed the way that some marker pens do. The markings are a mixture of dry transfers, decals from the stash, and some hand-made decals. The large letters on the turret are dry-transfers from the Woodland Scenics brand aimed at model railroaders. The French cocarde on the hull front comes with the kit. The officer insignia, two red chevrons on a white background, were painted on white decal paper. The white convoy circles were made from decal sheet. The matricules (French registration numbers) were done on black decal sheet using dry-transfers. The A

To make the chevron markings on the turret corners, I masked some white decal sheet using Tamiya yellow kabuki masking tape.

The name on the right side of the turret was made by first making a black and white pattern of the name using Adobe Photoshop, and then tracing the design on clear decal paper on a light box using a Speedball calligraphy ped and thinned Vallejo White acrylic paint.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Brach Models French R35 / PzKpfw 35R (f) • Kit No. BM 085

B name "L'Aiglon" (Little Eagle) was

painted on some clear decal sheet using a Speedball calligraphy pen but with thinned Vallejo acrylic paint instead of ink. To get the size and shape right, I scanned the illustration of "L'Aiglon" from the magazine article, inverted the colour from white to black in Adobe Photoshop, and then used this on a light box to trace the name with the pen. All very complicated, but it is much less trouble than trying to draw the name on the tank turret itself! The finished paint scheme and markings result in a colourful but very toy-like appearance. To reduce the contrast and the colour saturation, I airbrushed the model in a dust glaze consisting of a small amount of Tamiya Khaki in a solution of Tamiya Clear and thinner. It is important to apply this in thin mists, because if too much is put on, the elaborate camouflage painting will be ruined. I then proceeded with various washes and dry brushing to finish the painting. I mounted the finished model on a simple base using some MiniArt vacuum formed cobblestone on a simple sheet plastic base. The figure is from Nemrod (Tankistes Français Juin 1940: N35064) with a Hornet head. ■

Modelspec Brach Models French R35 / PzKpfw 35R (f) Kit No. BM 085 Figure Nermrod Tankistes Français Juin 1940 (N35064) Decals Woodland Scenics Model Graphics MG719 Condensed Roman Railroad White Paint Vallejo Game Colour 32 Scorpy Green Vallejo Game Colour 46 Ghost Grey Vallejo Game Colour 49 Stonewall Grey Vallejo Game Colour 62 Earth Vallejo Game Colour 45 Charred Brown Vallejo Game Colour 39 Plague Brown Vallejo Model Colour 70958 Pink Vallejo Model Colour 70811 Blue Violet Vallejo Panzer Aces 320 French Tank crew (green) Reference Batailles & Blindees, No. 37, June-July 2010, pp. 50-65 ✓ High standard of casting; useful options; generally very good fit and simple construction. ✗ Not inexpensive; difficult assembly of resin individual link tracks; undersized turret. Available from Brach Models: www.brachmodel.it

Rating

The figure comes from Nemrod with a Hornet french tanker's head substituted.

the kit was “upOverall, to Brach’s usual high standard... ” The finished model on its presentation base. The black base was made from Evergreen .030 thou sheet plastic with the cobblestone coming from some MiniArt vacu-form cobblestone street.

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KIT PREVIEW

Meng 1:35 Pick Up w/ZU-23-2 • Kit No. VS-004

The doors are separate too, and may be posed open or closed.

Interior detail and textures are nicely done.

Topless, anyone? The one-piece body and separate roof section.

OH, WHAT A FEELING!

Tray detail looks great too.

Meng has released the first in a new line of Land Cruiser pickups, this one fitted with the Russian ZU-23-2 anti-aircraft gun. Andrew Judson takes a look.

M

eng Models has really made a mark in the hobby industry with their great kits and interesting subjects, and here is another one to add to that collection. This comes in the shape of a Toyota Land Cruiser, though not specified on the box, nor are there any badges, most probably due to licensing reasons; and the twin gunned ZU-23-2, quite a weapon. Both of these have served quite prominently through out different conflict zones, especially Africa and the Middle East, Iran, Iraq and Afghanistan. The ZU 23-2 is a Russian made weapon, developed in the 1950s and then mass produced in the 1960s. It has a high rate of fire and its primary role was antiaircraft though in recent conflicts has quite often been used effectively in the anti-personnel role. When mounted onto a vehicle such as the Toyota Land Cruiser, it becomes a lot more effective

Decals for the dashboard are colourful and detailed.

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due to its mobility. Inside the box, we are met with seven sprues of tan, black and green parts, the main cab and roof of the vehicle, five vinyl tyres, a sheet of photo etch, poly caps, a small decal sheet with dashboard markings, and finally an eighteen page instruction booklet, with very clear easy to understand drawings and on the back page, some colour profile drawings of the vehicle and the gun. The flow of the build appears to be in a logical order, beginning with the chassis, suspension, driveline, though there is no engine. Next is the construction of the interior, which is basic but more than adequate straight from the box. This is followed by the building of the cab and rear utility section. I thought it was very clever providing the roof of the cab separately, making it a lot easier to detail the interior with clutter and equipment as seen in most military vehicles. It will also be a lot easier to paint when wanting a twotone finish. Next are the doors, which may be posed in the closed or opened position, another clever option. Then it’s the final assembly of parts such as the foot rails, mud guards,

bumpers and wheels, leaving you with a very nice rendition of a Toyota pick up. Now we have the ZU23-2. This has ten stages in its build with a lot of detail, making this in itself a brilliant little kit in its own right. It can be done in the transport mode, or in three different firing angles, and can also be finished either ground mounted or vehicle mounted. This is a great option for those who only want the vehicle or the gun. For vehicle mounting option, Sprue E has the H iron sections to mount the gun in the utility section. This is going to be a fun kit to build and paint, and weathering will be offer all sorts of interesting possibilities, from mild to absolutely battered as seen often on news clips and photos. Really, the only things missing are an engine and opening bonnet, but I am sure the after-market will address this in the future. I think Meng has come up with a winner with this one. You can see that they have really researched the subject, making it more of a want into the already growing stash. I would highly recommend this one, and really look forward to seeing what modellers make of it in dioramas and vignettes. Top Job Meng. ■

Windcsreen and windows are supplied in sparkling clear injection moulded plastic.

The gun is moulded in dark plastic.

The gun may be built as ground mounted, or fitted in the Toyota’s cargo tray.

Thanks to Meng Model for the sample www.meng-model.com The modest photo-etched fret. August 2013 - Model Military International 35

14/06/2013 10:56

Think Tank - M109 Self-Propelled Howitzer An M109 in German service. Note the tracks and smoke projectors mounted on the turret.

M109 SELF-PROPELLED HOWITZER Stuart Ransley explores the origins, development and variants of the M109 Self-Propelled Howitzer.

T

he M109 is a self-propelled 155 mm howitzer. The vehicle entered US Army service in June 1963 and was eventually adopted as the standard artillery system for NATO’s Mechanised Divisions. It has been upgraded over the years since its introduction, with the current version being the M109A6 Paladin. The M109 has been used in action during the Vietnam War, Arab – Israeli Conflicts, the Iran – Iraq war, 1990-91 Gulf War, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Afghanistan. The design has proven to be highly dependable and well-liked by its crews. The M109 has been widely exported and is or has been used by a number of countries including Israel, Spain, Egypt, Germany, and UK to name a few.

HISTORY In January 1952, preliminary studies began for a self-propelled howitzer to replace the existing 155mm M44. Most designs for Self Propelled Artillery had simply added a towed artillery piece to a modified tank hull in an open top configuration. With the advent of the first Artillery Location Radars, accurate counter battery fire became a real threat so the US Army wanted a fully enclosed turret to better protect the crew. In April 1953 the Ordnance Tank – Automotive Command authorised the development of two new designs, the T195 110mm SP Howitzer and the T196 156mm SP Howitzer. The first designs for the T196, were rejected. It wasn’t until May 1954 that a concept was finally approved. A review of the military characteristics of the

entire self-propelled artillery program occurred in June 1954 and decided that future concepts of the T196 would be prepared along the same design that was proposed for the Howitzer 110mm Self-Propelled T195. Questions were raised over the adoption of the odd calibres. These were dropped in favour of the 105mm and 155mm howitzers, particularly after the 155mm calibre had been selected by NATO as its standard artillery calibre. The first prototypes of the designs were completed in 1959. The 105mm T195 came first then the 155mm T196 six months later. Both prototypes were powered by a Continental petrol engine. In 1959 the Army decided that diesel rather than petrol engines would be used for all future combat vehicles so the prototypes of both were fitted with a diesel engine

and redesignated the T196E1 and T195E1 respectively. The T195 had a number of failures occur in the suspension and final drive during evaluation at Fort Knox. Further work was carried out to rectify the problems that had occurred during evaluation and in December 1961 both prototypes were classified as a Limited Production Types. In July 1963 both types were classified as standard A with the T195E1 becoming the Howitzer, Light, Self-Propelled, 105mm, M108 and the T196E1becoming the Howitzer, Medium, Self-Propelled, 155mm, M109 The first M109 and M108 vehicles were issued to the US Army in June 1963. After experience in Vietnam it was found that the 155mm outperformed the 105mm

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Howitzer so the decision was made to withdraw the M108 from service. Some M108s were sold to allied nations; while many were converted to M109 or used for other purposes such as OPFOR (Opposing Forces) training.

DESCRIPTION

Aerial shot of a US Army M109 in Vietnam (photo US Army).

Side view of an M108. Note the size and shape of the gun barrel and the lack of recoil spades (photo US DoD).

An M109A1 wearing a four colour camouflage scheme (photo US Army).

The hull and turret of the M109 are constructed of all welded aluminum, with the turret to the rear of the hull, the driver’s compartment to the left front and the engine compartment to the right front. The driver’s position is accessed via a single piece hatch that opens to the left. The turret is fitted with two square hatches on either side, these open to the rear of the vehicle. There are two hatches on the rear of the turret that are used for ammunition re supply. The hull has two hatches at the rear of the vehicle to give access to the fighting compartment. Either side of the hatches are the recoil spades that are lowered manually before firing. The M109 has a crew of six consisting of: • Commander • Gunner • Driver • Three ammunition handlers The vehicle commander is seated on the right side of the turret and has a cupola that can be traversed through 360°, it has a single-piece hatch that opens to the rear. The gunner is seated on the left side of the turret and has a square single-piece hatch that opens to the right.

PERFORMANCE

Side view of a US Army M109A2 serving with IFOR in Bosnia and Herzgovina (photo US DoD).

The M109 is fitted with a Detroit 8V-71T, turbo charged 8 cylinder diesel engine. This is coupled to an Allison Transmission XTG-411-4A cross drive transmission which gives a maximum road speed of 56.3 kmph. The vehicle is fitted with torsion bar suspension that consists of seven dual road wheels with the drive sprocket at the front and the idler at the rear. There are no track-return rollers. The tracks are of the single-pin, centre guide type with replaceable rubber pads. The M109 can ford to a depth of 1.82m without preparation but can be fitted with a amphibious kit consisting of 9 airbags which are inflated from within the vehicle. The vehicle was propelled through the water by its tracks.

ARMAMENT The M109s main armament consists of an M126 155mm Howitzer. It can be elevated to +75 degrees, depressed to -5 degrees and traversed 360 degrees. Gun A August 2013 - Model Military International 37

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Think Tank - M109 Self-Propelled Howitzer

Front view of a US Army M109A2 serving as part of IFOR in Bosnia and Herzgovina (photo US DoD).

Front view of a US Army M109A3 from “A” Battery, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Field Artillery at McGill Base Bosnia and Herzgovina (photo by Staff SGT Ron E Long US Army).

B traverse, elevation and depression

are hydraulic with manual controls for emergency use. Rate of fire is normally 1 round per minute but can be as fast as 3 rounds per minute for short periods. There is also a M2 .50 cal HMG fitted to the Commanders cupola.

Variants M109A1 This was an upgrade for the M109, which replaced the M126 155mm Howitzer with the longer barrelled M185 gun. This increased the range by nearly 4000 m with standard ammunition. The first conversion kits were available in early 1972, with the first vehicles becoming operational in 1973. Apart from the new gun tube there were many other upgrades including:- A new Hydraulic motor was added, due to the heavier gun stronger torsion bars were added to the front two road wheels, the gun travel lock was moved from the engine deck to the front of the vehicle and a new weapon mounted rammer was added. By April 1981 all M109s in US service had been upgraded.

M109A2 This was a new vehicle that entered production in 1978 with the first vehicles being delivered

M109A2 of “C” Battery, 1st Battalion, 41st Field Artillery (Photo SPC Gary Bryant).

in 1979. This vehicle used the modifications recommended in Mid Life Improvement Program for the M109A1. These included:- The new M178 gun mounting, A bustle was added to the rear of the turret to accommodate the new Rocket Assisted Projectiles which were being developed. This had the added benefit of increasing the ammunition stowage from 28 to 36 rounds. The travel lock at the front of the vehicle was changed to a new counter balanced one, the flotation system was removed and a new engine and turbo charger was fitted.

Internal view showing the gun breech of the 155mm Howitzer.

M109A3

M109A5

This was the designation given to the M109A1 vehicles that were upgraded to M109A2 standard.

This vehicle has the 155 mm M185 cannon in M178 mount replaced with the 39-caliber 155 mm M284 cannon in the M182 mount, this gives the A5 a maximum range of 23,500 meters with standard projectiles and 30,000 meters with Rocket Assisted Projectiles (RAP). The vehicle can carry 36 rounds of 155mm ammunition and is fitted with a 440 hp engine instead of the standard 405 hp engine.

M109A4 This was the designation given to M109A2s and M109A3s that were upgraded with Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical / Reliability, Availability, and Maintainability (NBC/RAM) improvements. These included: - air purifiers, heaters, and Mission Oriented Protective Posture (MOPP) gear. This gear was stored under new gunners seats and stowage boxes.

Internal view of the turret of an M109A2.

M109A6 "Paladin" This vehicle is the latest version of the M109. It has a number of

Ammunition stowage may be seen at the rear of the turret.

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improvements these include: 1. Increased armour protection 2. Redesigned internal ammunition stowage 3. Upgraded engine and suspension 4. Improvements to the M284 gun and M182A1 mount 5. New fire control system The upgrades to the fire control system allow the vehicle to halt and fire within 30 seconds with accuracy equivalent to the previous versions of the M109 when they were properly emplaced, laid, and safed. This process previously required several minutes to complete under the best of circumstances. This allows the M109A6 to halt, fire and move off to a different location thus avoiding the threat of counter battery fire. Ammunition stowage is increased from 36 to 39 155 mm rounds. The M109 was exported to a number of countries. These export vehicles usually carried the letter “B” after their designation, eg. M109A1B. These vehicles were slightly different to the versions in service with the US Military. The M109 was or is still being used by many countries including, UK, Spain, Egypt, Israel, South Korea, Iran, Germany, Holland and Switzerland. The Swiss and the South Koreans developed their own versions.

A very dirty M109A2 in Bosnia (photo SPC Glenn W Suggs).

M109A5 under Repair (photo by Pendergast4).

Before the Islamic Revolution in Iran the US supplied the Iranian Army with several hundred M109A1s. During the Iran Iraq War, Iraq captured a number of these M109A1 Howitzers and put them into service. These vehicles were destroyed during Operation Iraqi Freedom. (Photo US DoD).

M109 "KAWEST" (PzHb 79/95, PzHb 88/95) This version of the M109A1 was produced for the Swiss Army by Ruag. The vehicle had its original 155mm gun replaced by a new Swiss-designed L47 155 mm gun with an increased firing range of up to 36 km. It was also fitted with a new fire control system and greater ammunition stowage, this enables the vehicle to fire 3 round bursts in 15 seconds or continuous fire of over one round per minute. Upgraded Swiss PzHb 79 and 88 (M109A1) are known as respectively PzHb 79/95 and PzHb 88/95.

K55/K55A1 These vehicles are South Korean variants of the M109. They were originally based on M109A2 with additional local upgrades. They are fitted with NBC protection, automatic fire extinguishing system, and a modified ammunition stowage. The K55A1, is a complete upgrade of the K55 which brings the vehicle up to M109A6 Originally ammunition resupply for the M109 was accomplished using the M548 supply vehicle. This wasn’t a particularly successful system as the M548 was unarmoured and offered no protection for the crew or ammunition. A

“Spanish Army M109A5 155mm Self-propelled Howitzer comes ashore at El Omayed, Egypt as US, Spanish and Egyptian Forces conduct amphibious operations, during Exercise BRIGHT STAR 01/02..” (photo SRA D. MYLES CULLEN, USAF).

A U.S. Army Soldier from Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 82nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division drives an M109-A6 Paladin Self-Propelled Howitzer to different checkpoints during a top gun competition on Camp Taji, Iraq, Oct. 10, 2007. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior US Army M109A6 Paladin (photo by Senior Airman Steve Czyz; USAF). Airman Steve Czyz) (Released). August 2013 - Model Military International 39

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Think Tank - M109 Self-Propelled Howitzer

A U.S. Army Soldier of Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 82nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division does U.S. Army Pvt. from 5th Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, uses a cal meter on maintenance checks on the M109-A6 Howitzer during the top gun competition at Camp Taji, Iraq, Oct. 12, an M109 Paladin tank to calibrate targets before a live fire exercise at Guzlani Warrior Training Centre on 2007. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Steve Czyz) (Released). Contingency Operating Site Marez, in Mosul, Iraq, May 28, 2011. U.S. Soldiers of 1st Cavalry Division are in Iraq in Support of Operation New Dawn. (U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Aaron Herrera/Released).

Rear view of an M109A6 showing the interior of the hull doors (USAF photo by Tech Sgt John Houghton)(Released). Another view of a Swiss PzHb 79/95 preparing to fire.

A Swiss PzHb 79/95 during a Parade.

B M992, M992A1, M992A2 FIELD ARTILLERY

AMMUNITION SUPPLY VEHICLE (FAASV)

This vehicle is built on the chassis of the M109. The turret has been replaced with a fixed superstructure enabling 93 rounds of 155mm ammunition to be carried. It was originally fitted with a hydraulically powered conveyor system designed to allow the quick uploading of rounds to the M109 howitzer. This was recently removed as it proved to be too slow and the two horizontally opening doors were changed to vertical opening so as to provide protection to the crew during resupply operations. The M992 has been further upgraded to be able to effectively work with the M109A6 and is now designated M992A2. The M109 has been an effective system since the 1960s, It has been upgraded over the years and was due to be replaced but with the cancellation of the Crusader program it will now remain the principle self-propelled howitzer for the US Military for the foreseeable future. ■

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A rear

Republic of Korea Marines fire artillery from a K-55 self-propelled gun July 18 in Tonghyeon-ri, Republic of Korea during the Korean Marine Exchange Program 12-7. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Anne K. Henry).

An Egyptian Soldier gives signals to his tanker while moving on shore after dismounting a U.S. Navy vessel during the Amphibious Landing Exercise on the Mediterranean Sea, Sept 15. The exercise is one of six major events conducted during the Central Command directed, Coalition Land Forces Component command/Third U.S. Army run Bright Star exercise. (Photo US DoD) A rear view of an Israeli M109A1 (Photo by Sgt. Ori Shifrin, IDF Spokesperson's Unit).

An Israeli M109A1 conducting a live fire exercise. (Photo by Sgt. Ori Shifrin, IDF Spokesperson's Unit).

An M108 that has been converted to resemble a Russian ZSU 23 4. (photo US Army).

The M992A2 Field Artillery Ammunition Supply Vehicle. (photo US DoD).

A rear view of an M992 Field Artillery Ammunition Supply Vehicle. August 2013 - Model Military International 41

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Kinetic Model Kits 1:35 scale Self-Propelled Howitzer M109A2 • Kit No. K61006

SON OF A

Andrew Judson builds Kinetic’s 1:35 scale M109

Kinetic’s dynamic box art.

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F A GUN!

A

B

C

D

ale M109A2 straight from the box.

A. The big main turret part. B. The lower hull is moulded as a partial tub. C. The main upper hull moulding. D. The tyres are moulded separate from the front wheel hubs - nice for painting!

K

inetic’s 1:35 scale M109A2 comprises approximately 328 parts in caramel coloured plastic. Bucking the trend somewhat, Kinetic has no multimedia parts or even vinyl in this kit. The focus seems to be to keep the building process as simple and straightforward as possible while retaining a decent level of detail. Kinetic’s plastic parts are presented in a caramel colour and are mainly free from moulding flaws. Some of the smaller parts have a little flash to clean up though. The level of overall detail is good. There is no interior but hatches are supplied as separate parts. I am sure that it is only a matter of time until some enterprising resin manufacturer decides to fill this large space for all those superdetailers out there. The big 155mm barrel is split into two horizontal halves, with alternative muzzle brakes being supplied as an additional two parts each. Link and length tracks are supplied in black plastic - long straight sections for each top and bottom run; and individual links and connectors for the front and rear curved sections. The tracks are generally good, but the track pins are poorly represented on the edges of the track connectors on the long runs. Markings are provided for three vehicles - one each British and US from Iraq in 1991, and a NATO-cam US Army machine based in the USA during 1987. The small decal sheet is printed by Cartograf. As you would expect, registration and printing are perfect.

CONSTRUCTION The first part of the build deals with the gun mantlet and the turret. The mantlet is built up in seven stages. These went together fairly well, although some parts needed a bit of manipulating to get together, or there were no locating holes or lugs to put in correct position, sometimes leaving you to guesstimate where to put them unless you have good reference. Once built, you end up with quite a detailed gun mantlet, although only with external details and no breech or internal details. The next six stages covered building of the turret. This all went together very well, although this is where I found some detail a little on the soft side. The rear baskets on the over scaled side too, although still acceptable for an out of the box build. There were some parts again that didn't align correctly that went into place with a little sanding. These were mainly the side doors and the rear baskets. I was not very happy with the tools on the turrets top. They were very basic, and if I was to A

Link and length tracks.

Markings are supplied for three vehicles. The decals are excellent.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Kinetic Model Kits 1:35 scale Self-Propelled Howitzer M109A2 • Kit No. K61006

B build another, would replace these

with aftermarket variants, as I would also with the Commander’s .50 cal machine gun. Mine even suffered with a big sink hole in its side that required careful filling with putty. After the turret was built it was time to add the mantlet, which one would think should be easy - just glue in place - but not so. The gap to place the mantlet, was approximately 1.5mm too narrow, so out came a fine file and sanding stick, then a bit at a time until I had a snug fit. I then skipped a couple of stages, and glued the barrel together, which was in two halves, followed by the flash suppressor, sanded away the join marks and glued this in place as well. With the turret complete, it was now time to start on the lower hull and running gear. This consists of ten stages in total. I believe that the lower hull tub was over engineered, with a total of nine parts just for the basic shape, leaving you to ensure that everything is correctly lined up and level or you will be faced with further problems later on when you put the top deck on to find it does not fit. It would have saved time is this could have been done as one part. I will say though, that I had no problems with fitment at this stage, Phew!! Now with the basic tub done, it was time to start on the suspension and running gear. Assembly was trouble free but I thought the detail in the wheels was basic, and a little on the soft side for my liking, considering the three parts per wheel when assembling. I then began on the tracks. These are provided as link and

length system, which look pretty good when they are together. I believe these tracks are available as a separate item and would make for a much better option than the rubber-band type, if you are building the Italeri kit and want to enhance it a little. I was impressed that the amount of links you are asked to use in the instructions was spot on, leaving a natural track sag. Overall, the running gear was for me the best part of the build. Next I assembled the upper deck. I found the level of detail here okay. Next I glued this to the lower tub, and lastly, constructed the rear stabilisation spades. The building is now complete, and it’s time to paint!

The multi-part lower hull fits together well.

The turret is busy with boxes, racks and hatches.

PAINTING AND MARKINGS As I was building this kit out of the box, I also decided to paint it with one of the four choices. Three of these are for Operation Desert Storm, two US and one British; and one US serving in the US in four coloured leaf pattern, typical of the 1980s. Markings for all of these is very basic.I decided to paint mine in US Desert sand for a vehicle serving with the 24th Inf Div 1991, Operation Desert Storm. I sprayed the entire vehicle in Tamiya acrylics, starting with a base coat of XF-59 Desert Yellow, followed by a second coat of the same mixed with a little XF-57 Buff to lighten it up a little and also bring out some of the detail and shape. Once this was all dry, I then started to apply pin washes around hatches, tools, panel lines, bolts and rivets; and around the wheels bringing out more detail than I expected - very happy at this stage. After the wash was dry I then did

A little filler was required at the upper hull rear corner.

some very light dry brushing over the washed areas to tone things down a little and also to further enhance some more detail. At this stage things were looking pretty good, but it just wasn't quite there yet, so some more paint was mixed up using the two base colours, only this time with less desert sand, making an even lighter colour. This was sprayed in a light mottled pattern, starting from the centre of each panel surface outwards, bringing out further the shape and detail,

The figure was sourced from Verlinden.

bringing more life to this vehicle. Detail painting of the running gear was next, starting with the wheels. First the tyres of the road wheels were painted, and then using True Earth products I applied a layer of Fading Agent No 1 to all the centres, allowing them to dry. This was followed by a layer over the top of Fading Agent No 2. When dry, this brings out all the wheels’ details and also the effect of a layer of dust and grime from travelling across miles of desert terrain. With the wheels done, I then had

Assembly of the suspension and running gear was trouble free.

The fit of the mantlet into the turret was tight – plastic had to be trimmed from the turret in order for the sub-assembly to fit in.

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to paint the tracks, which was also done by brush using a 50/50 mix of XF-1 Flat Black and XF-64 Red Brown as the base colour, followed by Lifecolor UA703 Rust Light Shadow, applied this to the end track joiners, inside and out, and then by a good layer of True Earth Fading agent No.2. Once dry, I then carefully lightly dry-brushed the rubber track pads in Lifecolor UA733 Tire Black and UA731 Dirty Black, leaving some of the dust effect from the fading agent to give a nice worn effect. I was quite happy with the end result. Lastly, I applied Fading Agent No.2 inside the running gear to blend everything in together. With all the base colours complete, and washes applied, I only had to pick out all the finer details like the tools, weapon and a figure, which I decided to add for scale effect. The figure used was one I had spare from an oldie but goodie, Verlinden set, more about him later. Metallic colours were added to the tools using XF-84 Dark Iron and dry brushed with Citadel Mithril Silver. Once dry, a very light wash of Black was applied. All timber handles were done using Citadel Elf Flesh with a couple of light coats of Greyphonne Sepia over the top, leaving some now acceptable looking tools. The .50 cal was also painted in the same manner as the metallic parts on the tools, but a light coat of True Earth Fading Agent No.2 was then applied over the top giving a slightly dusty appearance without going over the top. The ammo can was painted in Tamiya XF-62, then dry brushed with Citadel

Tyrant Skull, Heh heh, love those names! For a little more detail I also added a couple of Legend covered backpacks and a pack without the cover. The two covered packs were finished in the chocolate chip pattern typical of that conflict. The plain pack was painted Olive Drab and given a dusty coat to mix in with the rest of the vehicle. Now with everything painted it was now time to apply the markings, which consisted of the two side markings on the turret and also the two on the guns fume extractor. These were coated with Gunze Mr Mark Softer which bonded them well to the paint taking away any silvering, followed by a light mist of heavily diluted Tamiya XF-57 Buff to give an aged and dusty look. The vehicle was pretty much done other than applying some Easy Mud Pacific Beach around the lower hull and light sprayed with the same diluted mix to blend in the decals. Now the vehicle is finished.

The figure was was painted up with a For a little more detail I also added a couple of Legend mixture of Tamiya and Citadel paints in covered backpacks and a pack without the cover. the Chocolate Chip Pattern.

I was quite happy with the end result and got the desired finish I was after. I will say the kit isn't the best I have ever built, but it is still better than the Italeri offering. This was a fun project, and if you want to build an M109 at a good price then this would be a

nice starting point, though some aftermarket would not go astray to improve on it. Since building this kit I am aware that there is now a set from BlackDog to turn this into a vehicle serving in Israel, and also a full kit done by AFV Club which I have not seen as of yet. Happy Modelling to you all! ■

FIGURE The figure was sourced from Verlinden. This was painted up with a mixture of Tamiya and Citadel paints in the Chocolate Chip Pattern. A series of washes was applied to bring out the uniforms detail and then a very, very light coat of the diluted buff mix was sprayed over the top. I wanted him to appear on the dusty side, hence the facemask to help him breath a little easier and stop the stinging blast of the hot dry sand and dust common in Iraq.

The tracks were fast and easy to assemble, and represent a nice drape along the run.

CONCLUSION With everything done and the challenges overcome on the way,

Modelspec A light mist of heavily diluted Tamiya XF-57 Buff gave an aged and dusty look.

Kinetic Model Kits 1:35 scale Self-Propelled Howitzer M109A2 Kit No. K61006 Paints & Finishing Products Badger Renegade Airbrush Tamiya Paints; XF59 Desert Sand, XF57 Buff, XF85 Rubber Black, XF69 Nato Black, XF84 Dark Iron Citadel Paints; Tyrant Skull, Badab Black, Devlan Mud, Gryphonne Sepia Lifecolor; UA703 Light rust Shadow, UA733 Tire Black, UA731 Dirty Black True Earth; Fading Agents 1&2, Easy Mud; Pacific Beach Gunze; Mr Mark Softer Decal Solution Tamiya; Extra thin Glue ✓ Improvement over Italeri kit; link and length tracks; not overly complex ✗ Poor fit of parts in areas; soft detail. Available from

Decals were coated with Gunze Mr Mark Softer.

Thanks to Lucky Model for the sample www.luckymodel.com

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Young Miniatures 1:10 scale British Tank Crew • Item No. YM 1835

HAVE PIXIE SUIT,

WILL TRAVEL! Matt Wellhouser describes the painting and shading of Young Miniatures’ big 1:10 scale British Tanker.

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T

he moment I saw this kit released, I knew that it was on destined for the workbench. It smacks of character and a subject not usually found in large scale busts. This is Young Miniatures’ 1:10 scale depiction of a British tanker in the WWII “Pixie Suit”, sometimes called “boiler suit”, ”denim overalls” or even “zoot suit”. The figure is sculpted wearing the heavy insulated suit. From what I understand, the suit was created to protect the crewman from burns and the like. In the more arid climates the crews wore light shirts and shorts. That must have been a fun time in the tank when hot shell casings were flying around! The pose of this guy just has you envisioning this chap hanging out of the hatch on a Sherman Firefly. A little research on the web and in the library identifies the suit, and opens up some wonderful colour options - mostly tan and a variation of tan or khaki. Since the suits are usually worn over uniforms and the nature of the armoured fighting

environment, they would get dirty quite easily, so don’t be bashful about adding grime and dirt. Being a simple kit of only six pieces, it goes together very quickly too. The collar, beret, torso and head are the major parts. I usually leave the head off until final assembly. As with all of Young’s kits, cleanup is minimal and fast. A couple of light primer coats and the model is ready for paint.

Onto the Painting I started with the face - painting the eyes. I like to lay in the eyes first, then work on the flesh tones. The basic eyeball is painted with a mix of Off White, Basic Skintone and a touch of Brown Sand (all colours are Vallejo Model Color unless noted). Don’t make the eyes too white - that would scare everyone at the model shows! Once I was happy with the tone, I use some Burnt Cadmium Red and Old Rose to add a little colour on the edges of the pupils then Flat Black is used to place the pupils. Remember - go easy on yourself -

The head has been mounted on metal rod and a small block to make handling easier during painting.

The primed main body casting, also on a temporary painting mount.

paint the pupils looking to the side, not straight ahead. Believe me, this makes alignment so much easier. Once the black is dry, move on to the colour of the pupils. Blue, blue grey, and grey green are the easiest to paint. They also show the detail of the eye better on large scale figures. Most of my army is blue eyed. With figure this size, usually the eyes are easy to paint. I use a # 00 Windsor Newton

Series 7 sable. Brush size does matter! You need a brush that will hold paint, and at the same time have a nice tip to keep you from cursing out loud. The brushes are expensive but they are well worth it. For the eye colour, I mix a couple shades of blue to add some dimension to the eyeball. Think about it as if you are painting a sphere - shadows and highlights. Once the coloured part of the A

The eyes are the first area of attention. The basic eyeballs are painted off- I mixed a couple shades of blue to add some dimension to the eyeball. white, while the edges receive a coat of Burnt Cadmium Red and Old Rose. Flat Black was used to place the pupils.

The flesh mix – base colour, shadows and highlights – are all mixed using Vallejo acrylics.

I like to start with deep shadows, then work my way to the highlights. At a point about 80% complete, I add the hair colour.

I use a mix of Burnt Umber and Black for a 5 o’clock shadow. This mix is 90% water and 10% paint - very thin.

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On this figure, the hair was painted using Flat Black, then various browns for highlights - Chocolate Brown, Burnt Umber, and then Brown Earth as a highlight.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Young Miniatures 1:10 scale British Tank Crew • Item No. YM 1835

B cornea is done, paint in some

The torso was undercoated in the folds with Flat Black sprayed from my airbrush.

pupils. Don’t go too big - this guy is not a drug addict. I use some reference drawings of eyeballs I downloaded from the Internet to guide me. Finally, I coat the eyeball with a few coats of Future Floor Polish, although you could use any acrylic clear gloss if you prefer. I just happen to have a gallon of the stuff.

Face Up Now it is on to the facial colour. I tend to use the same mix on most of my figures - it works well for me. I do add some other colours as I go depending on the subject, but they are added in small quantities. Here is the basic flesh mix (all Vallejo Model Color): Flesh Mix Table Base:

Brown Sand

Shadow:

Brown Sand + Burnt Cadmium Red

Real Deep Shadow: Add Black Red

A mix of Tamiya Khaki Drab and Khaki was used for the base Pixie Suit colour.

Highlight:

Base Color + Sunny Skintone

High Highlight:

Highlight + Basic Skintone

Other Colours:

Add Burnt Umber to deepen shadow mix. Add Violet Red and more Burnt Cadmium Red to give more colour in the cheeks and sunburn nose

The colour mixes are kept very thin, about 50/50 water and paint to start, then as you get to blending areas the mix is closer to 80% water and 20% paint. It is important to be mindful of the amount of paint on the brush. I use a scrap piece of paper to “unload” or draw some paint off the brush before it hits the model. Practice with your mix and the amount of paint- it’s easier than me trying to tell you how to do it. I like to start with deep shadows, then work my way to the highlights. At a point about 80% complete, I add the hair colour. I like to at least lay in the base colour so I have some contrast on the flesh tone. On this figure, the hair was painted using Flat Black, then various browns for highlights - Chocolate Brown, Burnt Umber, and then Brown Earth as a highlight. Be careful not to add too stark a highlight otherwise you’ll have a punk rocker before you know it. I use a mix of Burnt Umber and Black for a 5 o’clock shadow. This mix is 90% water and 10% paint - very thin. If you are hesitant to paint black over your beautifully painted face, make the mix weaker than you need. It is always easier to add paint than to take it away.

The collar of the uniform is some type of darker canvas. I used Vallejo Panzer Aces Canvas for that area.

I added Sunny Skintone for highlights and Camouflage Black Brown for shadows.

The beret was painted with Flat Black and Sunny Skintone for the highlights

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The beret was painted with Flat Black and Sunny Skintone for the highlights - pretty straightforward here. The headband part of the beret was coated with a semigloss clear to look like leather. The badge was painted with Citadel Boltgun Metal. The nice thing about Citadel metallics is that you can This figure would be an excellent first large-scale painting project.

add in any colour Vallejo paint to tone the colour down. In this case, I added black and some brown to the mix. Then when the badge was dry, I very carefully hit the highlights with straight Boltgun Metal. The torso was undercoated in the folds with Flat Black sprayed from my airbrush. Then a mix of

Tamiya Khaki Drab and Khaki was used for the base colour. Once dry I started work with Vallejo Acrylics using a combination of German Camouflage Beige and Khaki for the basic colours. I added Sunny Skintone for highlights and Camouflage Black Brown for shadows. The collar of the uniform

is some type of darker canvas. I used Vallejo Panzer Aces Canvas for that area. The inner section of the suit - which may be the tankers uniform - was painted with English Uniform (fitting, eh?). The best highlight for that colour is Sunny Skintone. The sweater was painted with Russian Green mixed with Olive Grey. The shadows of the ribs were painted in with the same colour and black added. The highlights were the base colour and - you guessed it - Sunny Skintone. When researching this uniform, I found several pictures of British Tankers. It seems the pixie suit became real dirty in service. I doubt these chaps had time to stop at the local laundry and have them cleaned and pressed. I used Andrea’s Inks to add some grime and dirt to the front of the suit. The inks come in a variety of colours and are water based. There are very strong pigment, so be careful when you use them. They work exceptionally well for deepening shadows and other effects. I used he black and brown inks. I just dabbed them on with a brush, diluted with about 50% water. I worked them in the chest area. I was really pleased with the effect. They are also quite useful for accentuating gunstocks and similar items. After some touch-ups here and there, the figure was done. It was mounted on a nice walnut base. I used the kit-supplied plinth. I drilled it through the centre and added a brass rod for security.

Conclusion This is a killer kit to cut your teeth on large-scale figures. With 6 parts – and really only four for the bust itself - it’s an easy one to build and paint. Plus, it’s a fantastic subject. Enjoy! n

Modelspec Young Miniatures 1:10 scale British Tank Crew Item No. YM 1835 Brush Used: # 00 Windsor Newton Series 7 sable brush Paints Used: Tamiya Grey Aerosol Primer Tamiya acrylic XF-1 Flat Black; XF-49 Khaki; XF-51 Khaki Drab Citadel Boltgun Metal Vallejo Model Colour (Various – see body text for more details) 3 Fantastic sculpting; high quality moulding; straightforward clean-up. 7 Nothing worth mentioning. Available from Young Miniatures products may be seen on their website www.young-miniatures.com

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BUILD PREVIEW

Miniart 1:35 GAZ-AA Cargo Truck • Kit No. 35124

IN FROM THE COLD STALIN’S LICENCE-PRODUCED FORD Graham Tetley stays in from the cold with MiniArt’s 1:35 scale GAZ-AA truck.

I

f you like trucks, then this latest kit from MiniArt will keep you busy for a few of those long winter’s nights. Or, in my case, over Christmas when the Cold From Hell had me housebound. First impressions are very good. This is typical MiniArt in its standard of mould quality, instructions and presentation. The box comtains 16 sprues in total, four for road wheels, then one with two German figures on it, one etched metal fret, one clear sprue and the rest are devoted to the vehicle and cargo bed. A set of decals gives you markings for seven trucks, all in a variety of paint schemes, with three German and four Russian vehicles represented. There is a tiny amount of flash on some parts but nothing that cannot be easily cleaned up. The instruction booklet has 48 steps with clear, uncluttered, drawings and I should add that half of these relate to the construction of the chassis. Kits are made to be built, and this one looked too good to just leave in the box, so let’s see how it

goes together shall we? Construction starts with the engine which has a high level of detail throughout, just add plumbing for realism. I would advise that you leave part A12 separate at this stage and leave it until Step 32 where you can clearly see where it goes.

THE CHASSIS OF PAIN & PLEASURE Turning to the chassis, this is made of lots of separate pieces so please take care and test fits lots before applying glue. A lot of the parts are tiny so beware tweezer launch. I

recommend that you add all of the required detail onto the two chassis rails and then add the crossbeams. To be fair the fit of the crossbeams is very good and my chassis came out all square without too much care being needed. Now is the stage to crack open your favourite tipple. You will need it. Steps 12 to 18 see you assemble the fiddliest parts in the Universe. Miniart has replicated all of the gear linkages in perfect detail, but these parts are connected to the sprues by multiple attachment points. Getting them off the

sprue in one piece is a chore (especially when you are sneezing & wheezing), and cleaning them up without breaking them is even worse. Whilst the finished article is a thing of beauty, sometimes the simplicity of how Tamiya do things is most welcome. The tyres are made from seven pieces that, when assembled, replicate the tread pattern perfectly. Very Nice! Is it over yet? With the hardest part of assembly now over we add the fenders and running boards to the chassis. I would recommend that

The completed underside with all those painful linkages.

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you fit the cab floor part DA16 to these running boards before they are permanently affixed to the chassis as will need a little wiggle room to get a good fit. We next move on to the cab front and windscreen. There are some insanely small parts that make up the windscreen fittings and I ended up leaving them off. The fit of the main parts though is very good. With the cab in place our attention moves to the bonnet and doors, where more unfeasibly small parts are added to represent hinge locks and handles. The rail that mounts the horn & headlights fixes to the fenders and I found that the leads to the lights were best attached when the headlights themselves were firmly attached to the rail. Some Christmas Cheer with make assembly go smoother!

The completed engine assembly.

IS IT NEW YEAR YET?

About 3 hours work here...

The cargo bed is a very simple last stage of construction and just the thing when your cold is feeling better. A few etched parts are added, but in the main this is a plastic affair that fits perfectly and simply slots onto the mounting points on the chassis. Last on the agenda is the figures and whilst the detail is good the fit of the leg halves to the torso is far from perfect. The driver figure does not fit too well into the cab – his feet don’t match to the pedals for a start - so I will be leaving mine out. So, that’s it. This is not a beginner’s kit due to the finesse of some parts and tricky assembly, but the overall fit is superb and the level of detail is the best. Be careful with the chassis and plan ahead, and try not to build it when you are full of cold. Other than that, this is a lovely kit that not only challenged my assembly skills but looked good at the end of it. Highly recommended. ■

Thanks to Creative Models Ltd for the review sample www.creativemodels.co.uk

The nice engine compartment.

The basic cab. The windscreen needs a clean.

The fan assembly.

The spare wheel.

The rear light and tyre tread detail.

The detailed underside.

Tyre tread detail. One of the figures.

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Radiator detail.

The rear light and tyre tread detail.

That rear transmission is all its glory.

Spot the windscreen wiper.

Headlight mount and cabling.

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Figures

- A round-up of the latest figure sets on release...

TAMIYA

1:35 SCALE U.S. MODERN INFANTRY (IRAQ WAR) ITEM NO. 32406 Tamiya has a new set of 1:35 scale U.S. Modern Infantry to join its growing figure collection. In common with some of their other recent figure releases, the sprues were originally released by Master Box, in this case in two sets. Whereas some may have doubts about the reboxing of Italeri military and aircraft kits under the Tamiya label, there should be no unease based on the source I n this instance. In my opinion, MasterBox’s figures are at least the equal of Tamiya’s home-grown product. Tamiya’s new boxing contains eight figures – four U.S. Army and four U.S. Marines. The Marines are moulded in semi-action poses, while the Army are looking a bit more relaxed – ideal for sentry or checkpoint duty. More than 150 parts are packed onto the two Khaki coloured sprues. Heads, torsos, legs, arms and in some cases hands are supplied as separate parts. Helmets are hollow and sit over the bald heads. There are plenty of packs, weapons and goggles for all the figures. Moulding quality is excellent and detail is sharp on all the figures. Each is completely unique. The intricate Army and Marines digital camouflage patterns are illustrated in the instructions with colour callouts from Tamiya’s paint ranges, but you’re on your own when painting them! A sharp eye and steady hand will be helpful for both. The instructions are printed in black and white, but the uniforms, plus close up detail of the patterns and equipment, are also illustrated on the sides of the box. As a bonus, Tamiya has supplied a sheet of MRE cartons printed onto brown paper. These may be cut out and glued together as an accessory for your figures. Tamiya’s new 1:35 scale U.S. Modern Infantry set is a welcome bundling of two excellent figure sets, and will be an instant grab-bag for anyone planning a modern Iraq or Afghanistan diorama or vignette. Highly Recommended. Thanks to the Hobby Company for the review samples www.hobbyco.net Brett Green

DRAGON

1:35 SCALE HERMAN GOERING DIVISION. KIT NO. 6036 CROSS OF IRON. KIT NO. 6006 These two sets of figures arrived for review recently, ‘6036 Herman Goering Division (Tunisia 1943)’ and ‘6006 Cross of Iron (Eastern Front 1944)’. They are both re-issues dating back to the 1990s and although moulding standards were good for the time, they’re not a patch on what Dragon achieves these days. There is some flash and mould seams present on parts plus there are irregular flow lines on the figures that will be tricky to fill in. Detail is not as sharp as current standards such as the undercuts of collars, folds in the cloth and uniform details and personal equipment is confined to whatever is on the sprue plus a small selection of weapons. These items have since been superseded by Dragon’s ‘Gen 2’ items and I’m surprised that these were not included in the reissue of the two sets as all current boxes of figures have them. The Cross of Iron figures all feature the later M1943 pattern field grey uniform that deleted the pleats on the tunic pockets. Two of the figures have the familiar marching boots with the other two wearing shorter boots with gaiters around the ankles. Weapons included with this set are two PPsH machine guns, an MP40 and MP44. The Herman Goering figures, although primarily an airborne unit, are depicted wearing army uniform and includes three figures with reversible camouflage smocks and one in the tropical version of the M42 tunic. All feature the tan trousers with large patch pocket on the left leg. Weapons include the MP40 machine gun, MG42 and Kar 98 rifle. Although the recommended retail price for the two sets is lower than the current crop of figures from Dragon, I would have liked to have seen at the very least the newer Gen 2 personal equipment and weapons included. Getting away from the negatives, these figures can still be useful with some work and possibly replacement heads plus if you collect Dragon figures you will have a surplus of weapons and equipment in the spares box anyway. In conclusion they are not THAT bad for nearly twenty-year-old mouldings, and at the low price would make an ideal introduction to beginners at figure modelling, but still there are better figures out there by Dragon. Recommended. Thanks to the Hobby Company for the review samples www.hobbyco.net Andy King

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Diary Dates

To have your event included on this page, send your details to: Diary Dates, ADH Publishing, Doolittle Mill, Doolittle Lane, Totternhoe, Bedfordshire, LU6 1QX, UK Tel:01525 222573•Fax:01525 222574•Email:[email protected]

July 20-21 FIGURE WORLD 20th July 2013 SHOW 21st July 2013 PAINTATHON The Great Hall, Oundle School, Oundle, PE8 4GH Doors open 9:30-4:00 Entry £3.00 If you are interested in figure modelling you will love Figure World Here is what a prospective visitor to Figure World will experience: • A warm welcome • An opportunity to talk figure modelling to others with similar interests • Displays of figures covering all areas of the hobby put on by clubs and individuals. (Yes bring your work there will be space to display it. All welcome: from first-timers to gold medal winners) • Demonstrations on figure painting, by top modelers who will be happy to share their experience and skills • An opportunity to relieve yourself of some cash from the UK’s top figure and accessory manufacturers and retailers The core to the success of Figure World 2012 was the large area where members of major modelling clubs and the public, displayed hundreds of their model figures. Here visitors can spend time in a relaxed atmosphere, studying the work of figure painters and sculptors from around the UK; picking up ideas and inspiration while looking at the different ways each exhibitor interprets their subject. For those staying all day there are light refreshments available in the venue and for something more substantial there are a good range of eateries in the town of Oundle, only a few minutes’ walk from the venue. Following on from the show on the 21st is THE PAINTATHON. On Sunday the Great Hall will be open to anyone who wants to bring their paints, putty and current projects along and have a space to work alongside fellow modellers. This opportunity to share ideas and work together with fellow enthusiasts is free to all figure modellers: just turn up and you will be very welcome. For more information: www.tbfigureworld.co.uk

August 11 Avon IPMS Model and Wargaming Show Date: Sunday 11 August, 2013 Time: 09:30 to 16:30 Venue: Thornbury Leisure Centre, Alveston Hill, Thornbury, South Gloucestershire, BS35 3JB Price: Adults; £4.50, Children under 16; £2.00 Free parking. Features: Club displays, Trade stands, Open competition, Tombola.

September 14-15 JERSEYFEST MODEL KIT AND STATUE FAIR USA The "Jersyefest Model Kit & Statue Fair" is the premier show of its kind on the East Coast and attracts many hobbyists and collectors from all over the nation and abroad. The vendor show is Saturday, Sept. 14th and Sunday the 15th, 2013 at the beautiful Crowne Plaza Fairfield Hotel in New Jersey, which is not far from Newark Airport and Manhattan. It features resin and plastic model kits, statues, replicas, collectibles, art, supplies, seminars and demos, a big model contest, special exhibits, etc. It will include figure and vehicle kits and collectibles of all kinds including monsters, spaceships, females superheros/villains, etc. celebrating movies, TV, comic books, and fiction in general.

September 7 The Cornwall Scale Modellers Show St Johns Hall, Alverton Street, Penzance, Cornwall. TR18 2QR Traders, Club Stands, Competition, Refreshments. Time 10:00 to 16:30. Entry £1.50. Children under 15 free with adult. E-mail [email protected]

The show has many top vendors, producers and artists as well as various educational programs on kit painting and building.

October 5 North Surrey Military Modellers Group Annual Show Thomas Wall Centre, 52 Benhill Avenue, Sutton, Surrey, SM1 4DP

See the latest list of vendors and artists here http://jerseyfestfair.com/?page_id=343, which is continually expanding.

Movie special effects artists will be there to share secrets about how they created models and effects for films. Over 14,000 square feet of beautiful hotel event space in several rooms with over 100 vendor tables.

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Incoming VALLEJO

MODEL WASH 35ML BOTTLES

Vallejo has expanded its finishing range with six new acrylic washes. These are: • 76.519 – Olive Green. This is intended for adding shading around rivets and other structural detail of vehicles that are painted in a faded green. • 76.520 – Dark Khaki Green. This is for producing shadow tones on Khaki and other light camouflaged vehicles. • 76.521 – Oiled Earth. This will reproduce the effects of accumulated dirt when oil, grease and fuel combine with caked dust. • 76.522 – Desert Dust. This is intended to reproduce the natural accumulation of dust and sand on pale coloured vehicles, especially desert-based units. • 76.523 – European Dust, representing the most common dust found on vehicles based in Europe and in urban environments. • 76.524 – Blue Grey. This is a wash for Panzer Grey and similarly coloured vehicles. The washes are presented in 35 ml plastic squeeze bottles with flip-top caps – no lids going missing or falling on the floor with these! Being acrylic, you will be able to thin these with water. These are interesting new products in the very busy area of finishing and weathering products. I will try a few of these out on a future project and let you know how I go. Recommended. Thanks to Vallejo for the samples. Available online from Creative Models Limited www.creativemodels.co.uk Brett Green

UMM-USA

ROLLMADE II. UNIVERSAL ROLLER – ITEM NO. MN028 RIVET MASTER BEADING TOOLS – ITEM NO. BT902 MAXI PUNCH AND DIE SET PT.11 – ITEM NO. MN 030

A modeller can get by with a basic suite of tools – sprue cutter, knives, sanding sticks etc. – if he or she is focussing on building kits straight from the box. However, if you have ambitions to do a spot of scratch building or super detailing, then an entirely different category of tools will be very helpful. UMM-USA has recently released several craft tools that will be useful for working with multimedia materials such as photo-etch and plastic sheet, updating kit parts and building repeatable shapes from scratch. The first is the Rollmade II, Universal Roller. This tool is designed to allow the rolling of photo-etched parts. The diameters of the six rolling hollows are 5.5, 6.0, 6.5, 7.0, 7.5 and 8.0 mm. A set of smaller diameter rolling die are also available from UMM-USA. Ideally, for rolling photo-etched parts, the metal should be annealed. This involved holding the part over a naked flame for a few seconds until the photo-etched part discolours, then allowing it to cool. The metal will now be softer and easier to roll without kinking. The metal should be placed over the desired hollow and pressed in place with a piece of fine dowel, metal tube or perhaps the handle of a thin paintbrush. Next is the UMM Rivet Master. This is a set of 24 Swiss-made beading tool set in a convenient plastic storage box. Set offers beading tools in the sizes #00 - #22, a wooden wood handle and a base for the 24 punches. This beading shafts are made from hardened tool steel. Simply select which size beading head you want to use, insert it into the handle, then press down firmly on the model material to obtain a sharp recessed circle. The beading tools may be used to represent rivets, small screws, circles and holes and may be used on plastic, resin, wood, paper / cardboard and photoetched metal. The third UMM-USA tool under review is the Maxi Punch and Die Set Pt.11. This set contains hardened tool steel punches and a round aluminium die block. The punch diameters are 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, 5.5 and 6.0 mm. The punches are capable of dealing with sheet and strip plastic up to .080 thick. They are useful for paper and cardboard too. This Maxi set produce discs used for rivets, hatches, and buttons for figures, etc. I have also found these punches very handy for making small circle masks. I simply apply a strip of masking tape to thin plastic or cardboard, punch out the number of circles I need then peel off the tape to apply as a mask on my model. The uses of this tool really are only limited by your imagination. These three tools will be ideal companions for the super detailer and the scratch builder. All Highly Recommended. Available online from UMM-USA www.umm-usa.com Brett Green

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Incoming Book Reviews

TANK ART 2

WWII ALLIED ARMOR BY MICHAEL RINALDI • ISBN: 978-0-9883363-2-2 • RINALDI STUDIO PRESS

Michael Rinaldi is a world-class armour modeller whose work will be familiar through his extensive portfolio appearing in magazines and on the Internet. A few months ago, Mike released the debut publication from his Rinaldi Studio Press imprint, Tank Art 1 – WWII German Armor. Mike has now followed up with the logical extension – Tank Art 2 – WWII Allied Armor. The sub-title to this book debut is “A Guide to Painting and Weathering WWII Allied Armour”. The book succeeds superbly in its stated aim as a step-by-step painting and weathering guide for modellers. The hefty volume is presented in a squarish format and is printed on 208 pages of glossy, high-grade paper between its soft covers. The contents are broken down logically, commencing with Products and Materials before moving on to three Chapters discussing specific techniques Weathering Principles; the increasingly important Hairspray Technique (with an emphasis on distressed whitewash) and Oil Paint Rendering. The bulk of the book is dedicated to five master class examples of painting and weathering. Mike uses these five models as the blank canvas to demonstrate his wide range of techniques. The five models are a Churchill Mk.III in weathered Russian whitewash, an M26 Pershing, a Char B1bis (Marseille), a Sherman Firefly Mk.Vc and a KV-1s Ehkranami. The finishes demonstrated are: • Distressed winter whitewash • Overall Olive Drab • Hard-edged camouflage schemes • Heavy mud and weathering The finishes are described using three parallel narratives. If you are a visual learner, the photographs will provide a comprehensive guide to the techniques on their own. However, each photo is accompanied by detailed and useful captions that describe the technique in more detail, along with insights into their application by the Author. The body text is very readable and adds another layer of detail to the descriptions. Each model Chapter is rounded out with a two-page Quick Reference guide summarising every step of painting and weathering for the specific subject. The photography is the other highlight of the book, beautifully complimenting the outstanding quality of the finishes. All the subjects are evenly lit and brightly presented against a crisp white background. The photos are large the two page spreads are particularly impressive - and outline the techniques in the most useful sequence. The overall layout is bright, attractive and consistent too. The last Chapter is a Gallery and some points on sculpting figure models. This Chapter has been prepared by Radek Pituch. Tank Art 2 – WWII Allied Armor is a fantastic guide to painting and weathering the Rinaldi way. The techniques are extensive, the subjects widely varied, the photography and presentation first rate and the text ably supports the images. If you are looking for a step-by-step guide to obtaining high quality Soviet, British Commonwealth or US WWII painting and weathering finishes, this really is the ideal one-stop manual. Available online from Rinaldi Studio Press www.rinaldistudiopress.com August 2013 - Model Military International 55

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1:48 Scale – A round-up of the latest news and releases

THE MANUFACTURER’S LAMENT “Damned if you do and damned if you don’t” seems an appropriate maxim for any manufacturer in the hobby market today. Being a manufacturer of anything model-related leaves one open to all sorts of criticism. I remember back in the day, any new kit was welcomed with open arms. Kits were cheap but, brother, they were often nasty. Detail was something not included so you generally added it yourself. Tracks were easy to assemble but had as much detail as a rubber band. Construction sequences were few and far between (probably, as there were so few parts) and instructions well, they were generally pretty basic affairs. Accuracy well, that sometimes seemed to be guess work on the part of the kit designer and die cutter. Yes indeed, we had it good back then. I am sometimes amazed at comments that I see on the various Forums complaining about how kits have risen in price. Some protest that it is an absolute outrage and the hobby is doomed. I just shake my head in wonder.

It seems a strange double standard that some will gladly pay a couple of hundred bucks for a round of golf and fill up their SUV for another couple of hundred. But paying over fifty bucks for a kit with a zillion and one pieces is just highway robbery! Then, there is the “Goldilocks” crowd. Too many parts, too many small parts, not enough parts or not accurate enough due to a small fatal flaw on the right side of the bottom half of whatever.

Even so, some of the same people seem willing to gladly build the kit out of the box and place it on a competition table! It seems that everything is open to complaints these days. One company that will remain nameless has drawn criticism by offering products apparently repackaged from a commercially available product. What some consumers don’t seem to realise is that, yes, the product is available, but it is more convenient for modellers to buy it in the bottles the aftermarket guys are putting it in. The really funny thing is, I’ve just spent the last five minutes of your time complaining about complainers, which is fairly ironic in itself. In my opinion, we modellers have never had it so good, so spare a thought for the manufacturers out there. It’s not all beer and skittles (whatever that means) and it is impossible to please everyone all of the time.

Until next time

Luke Pitt

TORO-MODELS

1:48 SCALE CAPTURED AND NON-STANDARD VEHICLES IN POLISH SERVICE ITEM NO. 48D15

TORO MODELS

1:48 SCALE POLISH INFANTRYMAN WITH UR AT RIFLE ITEM NO. 48F27

This new addition to from Toro Models is a companion to the figure we reviewed last issue. The same basic comments apply but the figure consists of 8 very well cast pieces. What sets this figure apart is the inclusion of reference material. Included is a small colour leaflet with five photos of the uniform depicted and worn by a re-enactor. On the reverse side is a history and colour guide of the AT Gun. An outline of the shoulder bars used to differentiate enlisted men from officers is also included. On top of this is a small waterslide decal sheet for the shoulder boards. The figure does not disappoint with the sculpting and pose rendered to a very high standard. The all-important facial detail is superb and I particularly like the way the hand is cast onto the very finely rendered AT gun. This is without a doubt a top drawer release. Highly Recommended. Thanks to Toro Models for the sample www.toro-model.com.pl Luke Pitt

This new decal sheet from Toro Models consists of eight different marking choices on seven different vehicles. The vehicles covered are the German schimmwagon (in two colour schemes) Sdkf2 250/10 (in green), Kubelwagen (in sand), Panther (in camouflage) and a Panzer IV (in green). Non German vehicles covered are the Greyhound (in green) and the Autoblinda AB41 (in sand). All in all, this is a very worthwhile decal sheet with my only criticism being the lack of colour call outs. Highly Recommended. Thanks to Toro Models for the sample www.toro-model.com.pl Luke Pitt

ADM MODELS

1:48 SCALE EUROPEAN DOUBLE SPAN BRIDGE RUIN

ADM Models is a small outfit hailing from the UK. This is the first opportunity I have had to review their product and I must say I’m impressed. The kit represents a destroyed double span brick bridge that is littered around every part of the European contentment. The ten hand cast parts include some wonderful detail. You can tell a lot of thought has gone into this kit and with a bit of work it will be a wonderful addition to any diorama. I particularly like the road section with its distinctive and weathered cobblestones. Highly Recommended. Thanks to ADM Models for the sample www.admmodels.co.uk Luke Pitt

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Luke Pitt hosts MMI’s examination of the growing world of 1:48 scale military models, figures and accessories.

PLUS MODELS

1:48 SCALE CONCRETE BARRIER BLOCKS ITEM 4042 LONG ITEM 4043 SHORT

Concrete road barriers are a very common sight today so these two sets are very welcome additions. The so called “long set” consists of four 8cm long barriers, two of which are of the sloping end barriers and two are of the oblong variety. The casting is very well done with no imperfection in evidence. The “short set” is basically the same but instead of two long oblong barriers this set includes four short barriers of 4cm in length and two 8 cm sloping end barriers. These two sets are an almost a must for any modern diorama. Recommended. Thanks to Plus Models for the review sample www.plusmodel.cz Luke Pitt

ROYAL MODELS

1:48 SCALE PHOTO-ETCHED UPDATES

Royal Models has quite a large array of 1:48 scale updates that seem to have fallen through the cracks over the years. When Royal forwarded these to our offices I was quite surprised at the complete nature of the product. Over the next couple of months we will review a couple of sets a month and I believe you will be surprised just how good that these are. The first two sets are: M4 Sherman (early production) update Item 475 T-34 /76 (model 1941) update Item 474 Both of these sets at first glance seem quite complex. Let’s look at the Sherman update first. This update includes four photoetch frets and a small bag of resin parts that include the periscopes and various nick knacks that would be impossible to replicate in brass. The four photo-etched frets include 143 pieces and basically cover everything you would ever need to update the exterior of any early Sherman. The parts are wonderfully detailed and include a lot of detail that others have missed. This is a real super detailer’s delight. The set also includes a brass road wheel mask (which is a nice touch). The next set is for the 1941/76 model of the T-34 and again includes four photo-etched frets with around 80 parts. All of the grille work is supplied and the mesh is notably fine and in scale. Two tool boxes are included and all the little ‘’U’’ shaped tie downs Twelve ice spuds and leather straps are also included, all in beautifully rendered photo-etch. Both sets include easy to read and comprehensive instructions. As with the Sherman set a road wheel mask is also included. You have to hand it to Royal Models. Both of these sets are very effective. If you’re in the market for an update for either of these vehicles I don’t think you could really go past these. Highly Recommended. Thanks to Royal Models for the review samples www.royalmodel.com Luke Pitt

NEWS

EARLY PUMA WHEELS

One of the reasons I like 1:48 scale so much is its connection at grass roots level with modellers all over the world. One of these modellers is a gentleman by the name of Charles Kelley. He has contacted this column with exiting news. He has taken the bold step of commissioning a set of wheels suitable for the late model Puma. I asked him about this development and he has come back with the following reply: “The idea came from the lack of suitable tyres for a Normandy-era Puma. The current Italeri/Tamiya Puma features a tread pattern more commonly seen with very late 234s. Since there were no available tyres with this earlier tread pattern I commissioned Mr. Michael Kalbfleisch to draw up a CAD design for me. The subsequent CAD design was realised through 3D prototyping and now I am in the stages of finishing the master. The tyres will be available commercially in resin under my new brand: 148tanks (www.148tanks.com, website under construction).

ARCHER FINE TRANSFERS

1:48 SCALE US HELMET MARKINGS FG48055 GERMAN NATIONAL FLAGS ITEM AR49001

These two releases have been available from Archer for quite some time. The first set is a collection of US helmet markings consisting of various forms of Red Cross emblems and a selection on MP and USN markings. All are up to the very high standards set by this manufacturer. The second set is a group of four air recognition flags used by the Germans during the Second World War, applied to either foil or some other backing medium these would look fantastic on a model. Highly Recommended. Thanks to Archer Fine Transfers for the samples www.archertransfers.com Luke Pitt

NEW VICKERS LIGHT TANK FROM KEN SWENSON

Here is a photo of the 1:48 scale Vickers Light Tank from Ken Swenson, shipping now. You will be able to make two versions, European, and Middle East. The cost will be USD$40.00 and will be available by emailing Ken on [email protected] August 2013 - Model Military International 57

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KIT PREVIEW

Riich Model 1:35 Universal Carrier Mk.I with Crew • Kit No. RV-35011

Luke Pitt gets an early look at the brand-new 1:35 scale Riich Models Universal Carrier Mk.I with Crew.

SUPER CARRIER

T

his model has been a long time coming. Converting and updating the Tamiya Universal Carrier has always been on my bucket list but I ust confess that the very thought of spending vast amounts of money on that kit just turned me off. Admittedly I did purchase the old Modelkasten track set many years ago for that very purpose, but oh boy, those links are small! It is therefore pleasing to report then that this new kit from Riich is a cracker and basically blows anything that has preceded it out of the water. Riich Model’s 1:35 scale Universal Carrier represents the Mk.I production variant that differed from the later versions by the inclusion of minor fittings. These variations are in themselves welcome, as they differentiate it from the Tamiya offering. The kit comprises 475 parts moulded in grey plastic over 12 sprues, with one of these in clear plastic. A further 128 photo-etched parts are included as well as 32 springs, both large and small, and a length of twine and chain. A well-illustrated and precise set of instructions is included with the option of four marking choices. 44 construction steps are called out for, which is a huge amount for such a small vehicle. The standard of moulding is very good, with detail on all parts rendered to a high standard. A complete engine is

The kit decal sheet is well printed.

included and is moulded as a multiple part affair and is very well done. Unfortunately, most of this will not be seen when the model is complete. The lower hull is made up of just three parts in total with the drive train/ differential attached to it. Overall this assembly is very well detailed and accurate when complete. The distinctive bogie assemblies are made up from 23 parts each and are very well done. You have the option of using either a metal pin and photo-etch or a plastic part for the connector rod between the two road wheels but, in reality, when the springs are installed, almost nothing is seen of the rod itself. The road wheels are very well done with a fine manufacturer’s mark on the rubber portion and a fine rib pattern on the inner face of the wheel itself. The tracks are of the link and length variety and while I’m not a huge fan of this type of track, they are the most effective and sensible solution for this vehicle. The tracks are very detailed but care may be needed when removing them from the sprue gates. The tracks also exhibit slight sag, which is a nice touch. The all important side wall thickness is for the most part very well done and is a vast improvement over the Tamiya kit. There are however, a few small knock out pins to contend with but most will be hidden from view on the completed model. The interior, dashboard and instrument cluster are fine representations, with the radio being rendered very well, both a photo-etched guard and plastic options are included. In reality though, the plastic guard is so fine you would be hard pressed not to use this piece. This really sums this kit up. It is all about options. Take for example the driver’s seat

assembl. You may complete this in various positions to suit the driver’s height. A set of three figures is included and they are very well done. The only real fault with these is the moulding of the ears, or lack thereof, on the heads. The facial detail, however, is first rate as are the fabric folds on the uniforms. Speaking of fabric folds, the rolled up tarp on the vehicle itself is by far one of the best renditions of this I have seen on a mainstream plastic kit. In summary, this is a very good kit and is in my opinion better overall than other kits that have preceded it. The one thing that does impress me with this kit is its feeling of quality. The model is packed with options and really needs nothing in the way of aftermarket detail sets. Judging by this release, Riich Model is at least as good as the class leaders. If you have all those various updates for the old Tamiya kit in your stash it may be time to offload them and buy this kit.

The floor is moulded with plenty of detail for the interior parts.

Full engine detail is provided.

Some stowage is offered too.

The tracks are provided as link and length, saving some time.

The individual links are tiny but perfectly formed!

Springs and metal rods for the running gear.

The Bren Guns are beautifully moulded.

One of three photo-etched frets.

Thanks to Riich Models for the sample www.riichmodel.com Clear parts are provided for the headlight lenses.

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KIT PREVIEW

Hobbyboss 1:35 Pz.Kpfw.I Ausf. F (VK 18.01) Early • Kit No. 83804

Turret top detail.

Road wheel detail.

BIG WHEELS KEEP ON ROLLING… HobbyBoss has now released an 1:35 scale early version Panzer I Ausf. F. Graham Tetley takes a look.

I

remember that, not so long ago, if you wanted a 1:35 Panzer I Ausf.F your only option was resin. How times have changed! HobbyBoss’s version of this kit come moulded in sand yellow plastic on 8 sprues, with a further two for the tracks, as well as a photo-etched fret and separate upper & lower hulls. Clear pre-stamped plastic pieces are provided for the visors and two Balkenkreuz round off the marking options. Moulding quality throughout is very good with no flash or molding imperfections on my kit. Any knock-out pin marks are hidden although those underneath the fenders could do with being filled. Detail in some places is a little basic – notably the hinge detail on the fenders – but overall it

is most acceptable. Weld seams around the hull and turret are very good and test fit of the main parts shows that fit is remarkably good. Tracks are provided in link and length and come complete with hollowed-out guide horns and a test-fit of a few links to the drive sprockets shows no fit problems at all. The tools provided come with their mounting straps moulded on so would benefit from replacement clasps and clamps if you so wish. The etched fret does not supply these, but instead gives you the engine louvres and a few other bits. Strangely, about a half of it is not called out during construction. The building of the kit of pretty much standard and it is a quite basic so I would not expect any problems. The instructions are nicely drawn and very clear. You can paint this any colour you want as long as it is Panzer Grey and a nice, one page, 5-view, painting guide is provided for clarity.

The lower and upper hull parts moulded in one piece each

To conclude, the clear instructions, low parts count, link and length track and small amount of etch makes this a great intermediate kit or just a quick, fun build to practise your skills on. For the asking price it is not too bad at all and it looks like the vehicle it is supposed to represent. Recommended. ■

Drive sprockets feature crisp bolt head detail.

Smaller parts are equally well moulded.

Thanks to Creative Models for the sample www.creativemodels.co.uk

Link and length tracks

The engine deck.

The side hull is moulded with locating holes ready for the characteristic torsion bars of this variant. Photo-etched and clear parts. August 2013 - Model Military International 59

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KIT PREVIEW

Dragon 1:35 Pz.Kpfw.III (5cm) Ausf. G Early Production • Kit No. 6639 The new decal sheet.

Not much space in this baby!

Graham Tetley examines Dragon’s latest entry in their ongoing quest to release every variant of the Panzer III ever produced – a 1:35 scale early Pz.Kpfw.III (5cm).

ANOTHER BRICK IN THE WALL OF PANZER IIIS T he Panzer III was a medium tank developed in the 1930s by Germany and was used extensively in World War II. The official German designation was Panzerkampfwagen III Sd Kfz. 141 (abbreviated PzKpfw III). It was intended to fight other armoured fighting vehicles and serve alongside the infantrysupporting Panzer IV. However, as the Germans faced the formidable T-34, stronger anti-tank guns were needed. Since the Panzer IV had a bigger turret ring, the role was reversed. The Panzer IV mounted the long barrelled 7.5 cm KwK 40 gun and engaged in tankto-tank battles. The Panzer III became obsolete in this role and for most purposes was supplanted by the Panzer IV. From 1942, the last version of Panzer III mounted the 7.5 cm KwK 37 L/24, better suited for infantry support. Production of the Panzer III ended in 1943. However, the Panzer III’s capable chassis provided hulls for the Sturmgeschütz III until the end of the war. Specifically, compared to its predecessors, the Panzer III Ausf. G added extra armour to the gun mantlet and was initially armed with the 3.7 cm KwK 36 L/46.5 (later 5 cm KwK 38 L/42) gun. 600 were produced in 1940-1941.* Dragon continues their quest for world domination of everything Panzer III by adding an

Early G to the ranks. As you would expect, most of this kit has been seen before with very few actual new parts added. The only thing that I can see that is 100% new are the etched brass fret and the decals. Everything else is stock Dragon Panzer III with an early Panzer IV cupola included for an alternative version. The turret is exclusive to a ‘G’ but appeared first in the Cyber Hobby G with Wading Gear (6765) so cannot be said to be brand new. So what we have in this kit is a re-box of various other Panzer III bits, all brought together to give an early G. The included ‘Goodie Bag’ has the Magic Tracks, two pre-bent pieces of wire for the headlight conduits, clear parts for the visors and new markings for 5 vehicles from 1941- 3 vehicles from Russia (2nd, 13th and 16th Panzer Divisions) and two from Greece, both from the 2nd Panzer Division. It is not advertised on the box, but you get the option to model either the initial or the modified version. To be fair this is nothing spectacular as it just involves moving one part and filling two holes, but it is there nonetheless. The main variation though is in the cupola as Dragon provides optional parts for either the late or early versions. Moulding is clean and crisp with no flash on my kit at all. Some surgery is needed on the fenders

60 Model Military International - August 2013

p 60 PzIIIG Pre 088B.indd 60

for this particular version, but nothing more than basic modelling skills will see you through. The instructions are typical Dragon – nicely drawn but sometimes cluttered – so just take your time when working through them. I have to report that there are no surprises with this kit and it is a typical, high quality, Panzer III as only Dragon do. Construction should pose no surprises and from the many that I have built the fit should be excellent. For a Panzer III fan like me, this kit has to be welcomed. ■

The new photo-etched fret

The turret with the roof retooled for the 'G' features.

The G-style drive sprockets.

Main gun housing.

Magic Tracks – individual track links.

Thanks to The Hobby Company Limited for the sample www.hobbyco.net * Historical background courtesy of Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panzer_III

The correct gun mantlet.

14/06/2013 11:15

KIT PREVIEW

Dragon 1:35 British 25-Pdr Field Gun Mk II w/ Limber • Kit No. 6774

The new gun shield.

The firing platform.

THE UNIVERSAL HOWITZER

The slide-moulded one-piece barrel.

Andy King reviews Dragon’s 1:35 scale 25 Pdr Field Gun, the most widely used British howitzer of the Second World War and well beyond.

T

he OQF (Ordnance Quick Firing) 25 Pounder field gun was designed in the 1930s and first entered service with the British Army in 1940. It was the principle heavy artillery piece well into the 1960s with a few still being used for training purposes in the 1980s. As well as the British Army, it equipped Commonwealth forces and others such as the Free French, Greek and Polish and was used on many fronts during WWII. After the war it saw service in Korea, Malaya, the Indian Sub Continent and the Middle East. The gun weighed in at 1,633 kgs (3,600 lbs), could lob a shell a maximum of 12,252 m (13,400 yds) and as well as firing HE ammunition it could use Armour Piercing rounds in an anti-tank role. It was also used as the main armament on the Bishop and Sexton Self-Propelled guns. When transported, the gun was hitched to the limber or ‘Trailer, Artillery, Number 27’ to give it its full title

and 32 rounds of ammunition were carried within this. Dragon has just released the Mark II 25 Pdr in 1:35 scale, which was the most common version used in WWII. In the box you have five sprues in grey styrene, a small sheet of photo-etched brass and four tyres moulded in Dragon’s DS Vinyl. The kit was first released in 2011 and featured a full crew but this time around the figures are omitted. The only other real differences between this and the earlier issue is a new gun cradle and shield mounts. The standard of moulding is excellent with no flash to be seen anywhere and the only visible mould-pin marks present are underneath the mudguards of the limber. Some mould seam lines are present on parts but these will be easy enough to remove. The instructions seem clear enough and owing to the relatively low parts count (by Dragon’s standards anyway) construction

should be quite fast. As with other artillery pieces you need to decide fairly early on whether you want to display the model in a firing or transport mode. The barrel is a slide-moulded item but the muzzle brake is made up from two pieces which will make clean up tricky, especially on the inside. The limber has optional parts for the tow hitch and the doors can be modelled opened or closed with two separate drawers for the ammo, but as the front of the open drawers are thin etch they look slightly odd next to the thicker moulded closed ones. Painting instructions are rather dull with the choice of either Sand or Olive Drab for North Africa and Europe respectively and absolutely no decals whatsoever, but then again I don’t suppose artillery pieces are the most colourful things on the battlefield. As per usual, colours quoted are from the Model Master and Mr Hobby ranges. It is good to see a new model of this important piece of British artillery as the only other injection moulded kit of the 25 pdr is very long in the tooth now. Lets hope Dragon will eventually release a new kit of the Quad tractor to tow it as well! Highly Recommended. ■

Thanks to The Hobby Company Limited for the sample www.hobbyco.net DS flexible vinyl tyres.

p 61 25Pounder Pre 088B.indd 61

The included photo-etched fret.

August

Nicely presented muzzle brake.

Recuperator housing.

Ammunition is moulded in place in the limber.

The breech.

2013 - Model Military International 61

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Contact Details - for companies featured in MMI... ACCURATE ARMOUR/ ARMOUR DISTRIBUTION

Units 15-16 Kingston Industrial Estate, Port Glasgow, Inverclyde, PA14 5DG Scotland. Tel; 01475 743 955 Fax; 01475 743746 www.accurate-armour.com

ADALBERTUS

Iberyjska 7/49, 02-764 , Warsaw,Poland [email protected] www.adalbertus.com.pl

THE AIRBRUSH COMPANY Ltd

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AMPERSAND PUBLISHING (via Historex Agents in UK)

235 NE 6th Avenue #4 Delray Beach, Florida 33483-5543, USA Tel; 561-266 9686 Fax; 561-266-9786

ARCHER

(Historex in UK)

PO Box 1277 Youngsville, NC 27596-1277, USA www.archertransfers.co

BADGER AIR-BRUSH COMPANY 9128W Belmont Ave, Franklin Park, IL 60131 Tel; 847/678-3104 www.badgerairbrush.com email [email protected] (In the UK from www.shesto.co.uk)

BISON DECALS

Available from www.hannants.co.uk and www.pdi-model-supplies.com

DELUXE MATERIALS www.deluxematerials.co.uk [email protected] Tel; 01529 455 0340

DRAGON MODELS

(The Hobby Company in UK)

Dragon Models Ltd, Kong Nam Ind. Building B1-10F, 603-609 Castle Peak Road, Tsuen Wan NT, Hong Kong Fax; (HK) 4110587 www.dragonmodelsltd.com (For 1:6 Action Figures, please contact Amerang in UK)

ECHELON FINE DETAILS

Available from; wwwaccurate-armour.com & http://pachome1.pacific.net.sg/~kriegsketten/

FRIENDSHIP MODELS

12 Delta Drive, Musselburgh, East Lothian, EH21 8HR Tel; 0131 665 0866 Mobile; 07877166225 www.friendshipmodels.com

GREAT NORTH ROADS

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HANNANTS

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HISTOREX AGENTS

Wellington House, 157 Snargate Street, Dover, Kent, CT17 9BZ, UK Tel; 01304 206720 Fax; 01304 204528. www.historex-agents.co.uk [email protected]

HOBBYLINK JAPAN

CAMMETT

(Lifecolour, Scale Caliber)

Unit 5 Greenfield Industrial Estate, Forest Road, Hay on Wye, Powys, HR3 5FA Tel; 01497 822757 Email; [email protected] www.cammett.co.uk

CLASSIC PUBLICATIONS

Midland Counties Publications, 4 Watling Drive, Sketchley Lane Industrial Estate, Hinckley, Leics UK. LE10 1YF Tel; 01455 233 747, Fax; 01455 233 737 [email protected] www.classic-publications.com

CREATIVE MODELS LTD

(Mig Productions, Vallejo, Accurate Miniatures)

Unit 6-10, Honeysome Industrial Estate, Honeysome Road, Chatteris, Cambridgeshire. PE16 6TG Tel; 01354 760022 www.creativemodels.co.uk [email protected]

DARTMOOR MILITARY MODELS Haylis cottage, Budlake, Broadclyst Exeter, EX5 3LJ, England Tel; 01392 881271 www.dartmoormilitarymodels.com

C/ Santiago Rusinol 7, Pral 2a, 08750 Molins de Rei, Barcelona, Spain www.migproductions.com

MILICAST MODEL CO.,

9 Rannoch St., Battlefield, Glasgow G44 4DF, Scotland Tel/Fax; 0141 633 1400 [email protected] www.milicast.com

MISSION MODELS

(ETCHMATE, GRABHANDLER, MICRO CHISEL)

www.etchmate.com www.missionmodels.com Tel; 818 842 1885 Fax; 818 842 1886 [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]

THE ARMORY; M&MODELS

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www.ianallanpublishing.com Mail Order Dept 01455 254450 Kiev 02099, Ukraine, Borispolskaya 9 building 64. Tel/fax; (+38044) 369-54-12 [email protected] www.icm.com.ua

ITALERI

(The Hobby Company in UK)

Via Pradazzo, 6, I-40012 Calderara Di Reno, Bologna, Italy, Tel; 051 726037 www.italeri.com

JUST BASES

21 Graham Road, Paignton TQ3 1BB Tel; 01803 558520 www.just-bases.co.uk

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4 High Street, Botley, Southampton, SO30 2EA Tel; 01489 781177 www.justkitsandmodels.co.uk

LSA MODELS

Industriestrasse 6, 94347 Ascha, Germany Fax; 09961 910 7826

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Schiffer Publishing, 4880 Lower Valley Rd, Atglen, PA, 19310 USA www.schifferbooks.com

SCHIFFER BOOKS in UK

Bushwood Books, No.6 Marksbury Avenue, Kew Gardens, Surrey TW9 4JF, UK. Tel; 020 8392 8585, 020 8392 9876, email; [email protected]

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PO Box 164, Heathfield, Sussex TN21 8WA, UK www.panzerwrecks.com (Creative Models in UK)

Jizni 56, 370 10 C. Budejovice, Czech Republic. [email protected] www.plusmodel.cz

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(Trumpeter & AFV Club in UK)

PO Box 80, Welwyn, Hertfordshire, England, AL6 0ND Tel; 01707 391509 Fax; 01707 327 466 [email protected]

PSP MODELS LTD (Mission Models in USA)

Unit 19B, Applin’s Farm, Farrington, Dorset DT11 8RA, UK Tel/Fax; 01747 811 817 www.psp-models.com

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SB MODELS

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SCHATTON BARRELS

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HUSSAR PRODUCTIONS, CANADA

BOOKWORLD WHOLESALE

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Via AFV Modeller or www.blast-models.com

MODELING ARTISAN MORI

UK distributor for Model Victoria and Royal Model

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TAMIYA JAPAN

Tamiya, Inc., 3-7 Ondawara Suruga-ku, Shizuoka 422-8610 JAPAN www.tamiya.com

TAMIYA UK;

THE HOBBY COMPANY LIMITED Garforth Place, Knowlhill, Milton Keynes, MK5 8PG, UK Tel; 01908 605686 Fax; 01908 605666 [email protected] www.hobbyco.net

TRUMPETER

www.trumpeter-china.com Pocketbond in the UK

VERLINDEN PRODUCTIONS (Historex in UK)

811 Lone Star Drive, O’Fallon, Missouri 63366, USA www.verlinden-productions.com

VALLEJO

(Creative Models in UK)

Acrylicos Vallejo, SL Apartado 337 - 08800 Vilanova i la Geltrú, Barcelona, Spain Tel; (34) 93 893 60 12 Fax; (34) 93 893 11 54 www.acrylicosvallejo.com

VLS CORPORATION (LSA in UK)

(TRAKZ, WINGZ, CUSTOM DIORAMICS, WARRIORS); Lincoln County Industrial Park, 1011 Industrial Court, Moscow Mills, Missouri 63362, USA www.modelmecca.com

WHITE ENSIGN

Unit 5, Cobnash Industrial Estate, HR6 9RW Tel; 0844 415 0914 [email protected] www.whiteensignmodels.com

WWII PRODUCTIONS, AUSTRALIA 12 Prince Street, Waratah, 2298, NSW, Australia Tel; +61 (0)2 4967 3205 Fax; +61 (0)2 4967 3207 [email protected]

ZVEZDA

(The Hobby Company in UK)

Promishlennaia Str.,2, Lobnya, Moscow Region, 141730 Russia [email protected] www.zvezda.org.ru

n Please mention ‘Model Military International’ if you make contact with any of the companies listed above - thanks! 64 Model Military International - August 2013

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14/06/2013 11:16

BANZAI!

Dragon’s 1:35 scale Type 95 Light Tank by Luke Pitt, with reference by Bruce Culver.

Next Issue On sale 1st August 2013

ISSUE No.88 August 2013, Published July 4th 2013 Editor; Group Editor; Publisher; Graphic Design; Advertising Manager; Advertising Sales; Advertising Assistant; Office Manager; Administration Manager; MMI Website;

Brett Green Marcus Nicholls Alan Harman Alex Hall Colin Spinner Mark Peacock Joe Brown Paula Gray Hannah McLaurie ADH Web Team

Printed by; Symbian Print Intelligence, Hertfordshire, UK Distributed by; Seymour Distribution 2 East Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PT Tel; 020 7429 4000 Newstrade; Select Publisher Services 3 East Avenue, Bournemouth, BH3 7BW Tel; 01202 586848 Email; [email protected] Model Military International is published on the first Thursday of each month by; ADH Publishing, Doolittle Mill, Doolittle Lane, Totternhoe, Bedfordshire, LU6 1QX UK www.modelmilitary.com Tel; +44 (0)1525 222573 Fax; +44 (0)1525 222574

MAD MAX’S STATION WAGON

Kinetic’s new RG31 is placed in an urban Middle East setting by Andrew Judson with accompanying reference by Stuart Ransley.

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WINTER EVAC

Tasca 1:35 scale M32B1 by Pawel Rzymski.

FOR YOUR SAFETY Don’t forget, when using solvents such as glues, paints, thinners and cleaning agents, always ventilate your work area thoroughly and wear a face mask. When using power tools, side cutters or any tool that can suddenly break or create high-speed airborne particles, wear approved eye protectors with hard, clear lenses. Please always model in safety!

SMALL PACKAGES

Trumpeter’s 1:35 scale 8.8 cm Pak 43 auf Leichte Waffentraeger (Ardelt) finished in a striking scheme by Thomas Morgan.

Advertisements are accepted for publication in Model Military International only on ADH Publishing’s standard terms of acceptance of advertising, copies of which are available from the advertising department. Please write to the address above. All advertising, circulation and subscription enquiries should also be directed to the UK address above. Subscription rates are; 1 year (12 issues); £44 UK £56 Europe £69 Worldwide (Airmail) Binders; £8.50 plus postage (UK £2.45, Euro £4.45, World £6.45) For all orders, please call; (UK) +44(0)1525 222573 or visit www.modelmilitary.com Back Issues; Back Issues are available at the current cover price. See the latest back issues advert or visit www.modelmilitary.com The paper used in this magazine is manufactured at the Leipa Georg Mill and is 100% recycled using de-inked pulp. The mill conforms fully with the requirements of both FSC and PEFC and carries the full accreditations for their environmental policies.

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August 2013 - Model Military International 65

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14/06/2013 11:16

The Last Post.. The Editor examines the AMG (Arsenal Model Group) 1:35 scale Heavy Armoured Car ADGZ (Late) Kit No. 35502

The large one-piece upper hull moulding.

The lower hull is moulded as one piece too.

AUSTRIAN PUSH ME PULL YOU The turret is presented in “flat pack” format.

Wheel hub detail is nicely done too.

The smaller parts look great very good their short-run origin.

The sprue runners include rows of bolt heads that may be shaved off and used to supplement the detail on the model.

The photo-etched fret.

Markings for four vehicles are provided.

W

hen this kit arrived on the doorstep I honestly wondered if it was some kind of once-off prototype or perhaps a “Wehrmacht ‘46” style of theoretical vehicle. It is a very odd looking duck indeed. Once again, though, Google was my friend: “The Steyr ADGZ was originally developed as a heavy armoured car for the Austrian army (its designation was “M35 Mittlere Panzerwagen”) from 1934 and delivered from 1935-37. The Austrian army was using the ADGZ armoured car at the time of Anschluss. 12 were used by the army and 15 were used by the police. The Germans used them for police work and some were taken on by the SS and used on the Eastern front and in the Balkans. The SS ordered an additional 25 ADGZ, which were delivered in 1942. An interesting feature of this vehicle was that there was no “rear”. Either end was capable of driving the unit. As part of the initial operations of the Invasion of Poland, the SS Heimwehr Danzig used three ADGZ armoured cars during the attack on the Polish Post Office in Danzig, and lost one during the battle.” AMG was also a new name to me.

Tyres are black vinyl. Detail is crisp and impressive for this media.

The model company hails from Ukraine and this appears to be only their second or third offering. The packaging and box art appears quite professional. Underneath the attractive lid are 181 parts in low-pressure, limited run injection moulded plastic (grey in colour), around 42 photo-etched parts on a single fret and 12 vinyl tyres. The large (and yes, it is a large vehicle) upper and lower hull parts are each moulded in one piece, so we don’t have to worry about assembling a complex flat pack for these critical areas. Surface detail is quite crisp for a limited run kit, comprising recessed holes plus raised panels and rivets. The hull hatches are all moulded shut, and there is no interior detail. The characteristic louvres on the (nominal) front of the vehicle are moulded shut, but it would not be a major task to cut separate louvres from strip plastic and fix them in the open positions between the two photo-etched side strips. The cylindrical turret is made up from four main parts, which includes a separate Commander’s hatch. The smaller detail parts are crisply moulded with minimal imperfections. The black vinyl tyres are

actually very nicely done. The material is quite hard, and the tread pattern is crisp. There is a feint circumferential centre seam line, but this should disappear if you rough up the tread with a sanding stick. The sidewalls are really impressive with very fine raised ribs and “Continental” lettering – obviously no fear of Trademark infringement in the Ukraine! You’ll have to cut out the thick vinyl plug in the middle of each tyre before assembly. Options include four jerry cans, a rack, a shovel, pick and axe. Markings for four vehicles are included on the small but sharply printed decal sheet. All the schemes are overall Panzer Grey. No clue is offered about the source of the decals, but they look good. In summary, this model looks impressive in the box. However, you don’t want to be completely lulled by the crisp detail and quality of the plastic. Being a limited run kit, you should be prepared to spend some extra time preparing the parts, test fitting and potentially filling and sanding. Even so, this is a small price to pay for a nice looking replica of a very unique type. I can’t see Tamiya coming out with one of these any time soon! And if this isn’t enough to grab your attention, Google adds one more interesting tidbit at the end of its entry: “After the invasion of the USSR a few ADGZ armoured cars were rearmed with turrets from the Soviet T-26 model 1933 light tank.” Now that sounds like a fun conversion. Highly Recommended. ■

Thanks to Creative Models Australia for the sample www.creativemodels.com.au

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D75046 Dragon Kits are distributed in the UK by The Hobby Company Limited, Knowlhill, Milton Keynes, MK5 8PG See the full Dragon range at www.hobbyco.net Find us on facebook Dragon models are available from all good model shops search Plastic Kits UK

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