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PublisherGuideline Publicationswww.guidelinepublications.co.ukManaging DirectorAlan CorkhillEditorDavid Grummitt20 Warwick Road, WhitstableCT5 1HX United KingdomEmail: [email protected] EditorMoustafa AssadEmail: [email protected] andMarketing DirectorTom FoxonE-mail: [email protected]: +44 (0)7540 153368DesignMark SmithSubscriptionsGuideline Publications Ltd.6 Kensworth Gate200-204 High Street SouthDunstable, Bedfordshire, UK, LU6 3HSTel: 01582 668411 Email: [email protected] PublicationsSubscription Agent for the USA.Larry Weindorfc/o For The Historian, 42 York Street,Gettysburg PA 17325Tel: 717-685-5207Email: [email protected] to the UK andInternational news trade by:Intermedia www.inter-media.co.ukviaMarketForce (UK) Ltd.,110 Southwark StreetLondon SE1 0SU www.marketforce.co.ukMMI Shop6 Kensworth Gate200-204 High Street SouthDunstable, Bedfordshire, UKLU6 3HSTel: 01582 668411Email: [email protected] Sales to Model ShopsGuideline Publications Ltd. (Address as MMI Shop above)Printed in the UK by Acorn WebMagazine Licensing & SyndicationGuideline Publications Ltd and GuidelineLicensed Publications Ltd publish topquality magazines, books & bookazines.Guideline Licenced Publications Ltdpublishes a wide range of publications thatare available for licensing and reproductionaround the world. You can find out more bycontacting:Tom FoxonOffice +44(0) 1980 270400Mobile +44(0) 7540 153368e-mail: tom@guidelinepublications..co.ukwww.guidelinepublications.co.ukSturmgeschütz Vor! Keeping up theFeatures...Stars of the Next IssueBringing you the best in armCONTEMPORARY FIGHTING VEHICLESCONTEMPORARY FIGHTING VEHICLESWORLD WAR IIWORLD WAR IIWORLD WAR IIWORLD WAR IIWORLD WAR IIARMOUR IN PROFILE24 The Modern ‘Dragon Wagon.’Roman Volchenkov models a Small-Scale HEMTT.32 T-28.Fernando Olszewski joins the MMI team with a Small-Scale stunner.38 3Vive le France!Daniel Brooker returns with France’s ‘What-if’ Cold War Super Tank.47 Armour in Profile 43 - Know Your Churchills.M.P Robinson presents the firstpart of a photo essay to the Infantry Tank Mk.IV. Profiles by Slawomir Zajaczkowski.58 A Very British Sort of Tank.David Chou presents his recent build of AFV Club’s Churchill.62 Big Cats on the Prowl (again).Thomas Birzer concludes his build of Takom’s Panther Ausf. A.68 Comrades in Arms.Łukasz Orczyc-Musiałek returns with an ambitious World War II project.78 Late War Hetzer.Tracy Hancock wrestles the Eduard kit into shape.86 T-72AV with ‘Sarab-1’.Sergey Golikov joins the MMI team with a Syrian T-72.4 Military Modelcraft International476268COLD WAR
e advance on the Eastern Front Mini-Katyusha. A Jeep meets a rocket launcher during the Iran-Iraq War.06The ForumNews and Views08News At The FrontAn in-depth look at some of thelatest releases16The Quartermaster’s StoreA round up of the latest releases94Words and PicturesExpand your media reference libraryRegulars...Competition RulesEmployees of Guideline Publications Ltd and Guideline Licensed Publications Ltd. and the Provider(s) of the Prize(s) and their immediatefamilies are not eligible to enter. One entryper household. The decision is final, and no correspondence will be entered into. No responsibility can be taken for entries thatare damaged, delayed, mislaid or wrongly delivered. Guideline Publications Ltd. accept no responsibility for any damage or injury causedby competition prizes. Any enquiries should bedirected to the manufacturer or retailer.ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS 12 ISSUESUK inland rate £49.50 paEurope £64.00paR.O.W £85.00paUSA/Canada $127.0024 ISSUESUK inland rate £94.00Europe £123.00R.O.W £162.00USA/Canada $240.00Guideline Publications Ltd,6 Kensworth Gate200-204 High Street South, Dunstable,Bedfordshire, UK LU6 3HS Tel: 01582 668411Email:[email protected] 1364-419Xmour modelling from across the world . . .On sale in the UK 20th February 2020.INDEX TO ADVERTISERSContentsAviation & Military Book CentreyP02MiniArtP03ICMP07EduardP09Special HobbypyP11RevellP13Das WerkP17Historex - Alexanderos ModelsP19BookworldP21MiGP23HaulerP31Matador ModelsP31Sprue BrotherspP31Tru-Color PaintP31Historex - Young MiniaturesgP37Attack KitsP57Dean’s Hobby StopypP61Models For SaleP61Mustang HobbiesgP61Thunder ModelP61Wildcat’s ModelsP61Fantasy Figures InternationalygP67Quick WheelsP67MMI SubscriptionspP77Armour In ActionP85Graphic AirpP85Guideline Essential ToolsP85Guideline - In Action Volume 1P85Guideline - New PublicationsP93London Plastic Modellers ShowP93World Model ExpopP93Advertise in MMIP97On TrackP97Southern ExpopP97HannantsP99VallejoP100militarymodelcraftinternational.co.uk 52432387886Published by Guideline Publications,Unit 6, Kensworth Gate, 200-204 High StreetSouth, Dunstable, Bedfordshire LU6 3HS. Tel: +44(0)1582 668411 e-mail: [email protected] www.guidelinepublicatons.co.ukCopyright © 2019 Guideline Publications &Guideline Licensed Publications 2019.This magazine / book shall not without thewritten consent of the publisher, be lent,resold , or otherwise disposed of by way of trade in excess of he maximum recorded retailprice. All rights strictly reserved. No part of this publications may be reproduced printor digital in any way without prior writtenagreement of the publisher. All material andartwork generated by Guideline PublicationsLtd & or Guideline Licensed Publications Ltd,photographs, drawings, and plans used in themagazine and or book become the publisher’scopyright under copyright law. The companyreserves the right to suspend or refuse anyadvertisements without giving reasons. Whilstevery care is taken to avoid mistakes GuidelinePublications Ltd and Guideline LicensedPublications Ltd cannot be liable in any way forany errors or omissions. Nor can the publicationaccept the responsibility for the bona fides of advertisers.
At this time of year I sit down and tryto plan out what I want to achievein the hobby over the comingmonths. In part this is inspired by myfriends who post their past year’s work on Social Media and my own inevitabledisappointment that I haven’t completedhalf the projects I had planned. Onemodelling resolution I make every year isnot to buy more new kits than I will complete, but that one hasgenerally gone out of the window by the end of January! On amore achievable note, I want to return to figure painting and tryand put some crew with my models. To master (or at least makerespectable attempts at) modern camouflage patterns wouldbe a corollary to that one. I think a realistic target might be sixmodels completed for year; the more difficult task is to choosethe subjects and stick to them. I certainly want to explore thelate Cold War a little more and have a go at updating some of the older Tamiya kits: their early M2 Bradley and Challenger1 spring to mind. I’m also very excited about Ryefield Model’snew Challenger 2, which looks a cracking kit. Given how muchI struggle with tracks, I should also tackle some wheeled subjects and detailing Trumpeter’s LAV-25 is a project I’ve hadin mind for some time now. I’m also going to tackle a coupleof Sci-Fi subjects for our sister publication,Fantasy FiguresInternational, and I might even have a go at some Warhammer40k subjects for a complete change of pace. As ever though, Isuspect it will be a case of ‘so many models, so little time ...’This issue I’m delighted to include three Small-Scale modelsinMMI. Over the last decade the quality of Small-Scale kitsand the results achieved by modellers in this scale have beentransformed.Roman Volchenkov kicks us off with a superbbuild of Modelcollect’s HEMTT and T-Models’ Humvee. Next,the first of our new names to MMI:Fernando Olszewski, who presentsTrumpeter’s 1/72-scale T-28. Our trio of Small-Scalestunners is completed by another MMI debutante,Sergey Golikov who builds another Modelcollect kit, this time theSyrian T-72AV. It’s back to 1/35 scale and a superb piece of scratchbuilding byDan Brooker. His AMX-65 is a heady mix of old-fashioned modelling skills, bang-up-to-date paintingand weathering, and a subject inspired by a computer game.Thomas Birzerreturns with the second part of his build of Takom’s Panther Ausf. A, while Tracy Hancockk completesa brace of World War II German subjects withEduard’sproblematic late-versionHetzer Łukasz Orczyc-Musiałek. returns with the first part of an ambitious World War II project,which centres uponItaleri’s T-34/85 and MiniArt’s tram. Our Armour in Profilethis month is the first of a multi-part serieswe’ll be running throughout 2020 asMP Robinson examinesin detail the most iconic British tank of the War theChurchill6 Military Modelcraft International
W hen MiniArtreleasthe first of their M3 tank seriesI was a little surprised. I did not expect them, withtheir existing portfolio of mainly Soviet vehicles, to go in this direction. But why not?I was excited and I expected the quality which we are used to when talking about thisUkrainian company. Without a full interior – a tradeMiniArt recently – this kit is quite simple, but it’s perfectlyprepared for to install an interior, including a R975 engine, which is separately 321). ulds are nice and sharp with no shrinkage or deformations. With kits that have this many rivets and other surface details, it isusual to have problems with sharpness of details, but this is not the case with this kit. The cast surface texture. of parts is also very detailed and sharp enough. The only moulding that requires anyattention is the cast turret where there are a few, veryminor, mould lines to clean up. I was pleasantly surprisedby the construction of roadwheels and idler wheels, where there are no mould lines to clean up. The only really timeconsuming part of thebuild is, no surprise, the individual link tracks. During their assembly we have to put together two main symmetricalparts (upper and lower) and two triangles from bothsides. Assembly is fiddly, but it pays off. The tracks arefully functional and there isno need to buy expensive Aftermarket tracks. One big advantage of this kit is that we can leave open all the hatches, periscope coversand fuel tank caps with no modifications necessary. The gun barrels are also moveable MiniArt 1/35 M3 Lee Štefan Pásztor8 Military Modelcraft International1342
in all directions. Overall, as I hope you can see from the photos this is a superb kit; another winner from MiniArt.1The very nicely mouldedturret. You can see the prominent mould line that needs to eradicated.2The beautifully detailed upper hull parts and turret ring. You can appreciate the rivet detail and different textures.3The lower hull is made fromseveral separate parts,rather than being slidmoulded, but everything fits together perfectly.4The bogies are wonderfully detailed and thankfully free of moulding seams.5The tracks are fiddly, but are fully workable and fit the running gear like a dream.www.militarymodelcraftinternational.co.uk 95Availability:MiniArt 1/35 M3 Lee Late Model(ref. 35214). See www.miniart-models.com
Copper State ModelsPaul OsborneA relative newcomer to armour modelling,Copper State Modelsare better known for their excellent World WarI aviation kits. On the basis of such a reputation, theirfirst 1/35 subject was hotlyanticipated, both in terms of quality and through beinga ‘Lanchester’, and did notdisappoint. How to follow upsuch a kit? With something even more obscure and rakish, of course! The RomfellPanzerwagen (ref. CSM35002)hailed from the Austro-Hungarian empire in 1915. A technological revolutionin warfare had long been predicted across Europe and many military officersand crackpot inventors had strong, often peculiar, ideas as to what shape it would take and produced proposals and prototypes to boggle the mind. As with other militaristic nations, a certain amount of snobbery in favour of horseand tradition made the early days of armour development an uphill struggle. However,one Romfell armoured car, with unconfirmed reportsof a second, was used withlimited success due to problems with excessive weight, poor off-road mobilityand ammunition storage through 1915 before being overhauled and transported to Trieste in 1917, from whereit disappeared into history.CSM’s kit comes in a sturdy box, with beautiful artwork and a very ‘official’ looking instruction booklet,with a detailed history and photographs/technicalillustrations of the Romfell. The construction diagramsare beautifully laid out, with parts to be added rendered in pale blue as well as called out by sprue and number. Additionally, there are helpfulcomments about shortcuts for building a ‘battened down’ vehicle as opposed to using the very detailed engine and splendid-but-sparse cabin and turret interior.The main parts are laid outon three cleanly moulded sprues that include a one-piece chassis to take some of the guesswork out of gettingeverything square and true. The curved armour plates at the rear will provide enough of a challenge there. Two smaller sprues make up the wheels and engine details. Clear inserts areprovided for the searchlight and headlamps. Overall, the detail is very good, though much of it, like the leaf springs, rear-wheel chain drives and engine, will be hidden on the finished model. Large imperial crosses are provided as decalsand are sure to require somepatience (and decal solution)to apply to the radiator grille and the curved hull rear.Although some relief comes with the knowledge that they were quickly overpainted by the crew for providing toomuch of a target! Depending on how you choose toassemble it, this could be a weekend build project. Its limited history might seem tocurb creativity at first but, giventhe rag-tag nature of vehicles pressed into police/securityservice immediately post-Waryou might even consider abattered/altered ‘What-If?’ Romfell wearing the hastilypainted skull and crossbonesof the German Freikorps.This is a fun kit, of a strikinglooking model, and I hope formore weird and wonderfulCopper State releases in thefuture. My personal thanksto Edgar Liepinsh of CSM(www.copperstatemodels.com) for the review sample.An in-depth look at some of the latest releases10 Military Modelcraft International1/35Abilio Piñeiro Grajera painted andweathered a test shot of the Romfell kit in the October 2019 issue of MMI.
Stalingrad MiniaturesPaul Osborne‘Endkampf’’is a chapter of World War II that has seen a surge in interest in recentyears, due in no small part to wave after wave of Soviet‘heavy’ and German ‘late’ armour kits hitting the market. Apart from its obvious tactical significance, the battle forBerlin is notable for being photographed predominantly from a Russian point of view - giving rise to much interesting reference material. Stalingrad Miniatures’ Russian Infantryman, Berlin 1945(ref. S-3043) depicts aRussian soldier inspecting aPanzerfaustt 60 or 100, atleast I hope he’s inspecting it, unless he’s aiming at a German Eagle crest on top of a building! This being quitean intricate pose, the partscount is relatively high, forresin. Some relief comes withthe moulding of the hands in place around the trigger of the panzerfaustt, making it easier to line up the arms prior to fixing permanently. Texturing on the‘Telogreika’ padded jacket is superb, with shoulder straps cutting deeply into the thick material and, what appears to be a Russian stick-grenade in the left side pocket. Thejacket rides up at the front toreveal the hem of the regular uniform tunic beneath, a well observed effect of thepose. The face has a suitablelook of concentration and istopped off with a fur-lined ‘Ushanka’ hat with Red Starbadge. Personal equipmentis limited to a small shoulderbag, for magazines, and a PPS-43 machine pistol slung across his back. At this pointin the war, many Soviet troops ‘packed lightly’ and made full use of tanks and other forms of military transport.This figure is part of a vast line-up of Berlin 1945 Russian Figures, all in complimentary poses and various states of dress, and are recommended on the basis of my sample. Thanks to Alexander Zelenkov at Stalingrad for the reviewsample. Stalingrad figuresare available from Fields Of Glory in the UK (www.fieldsofglorymodels.co.uk).www.militarymodelcraftinternational.co.uk 111/35
The Challenger 2 is the current Main Battle Tank of the British Army. It has seen active servicein the Balkans and in Iraqand remains an important component of NATO’s EnhancedForward Presence (eFP) in the Baltic countries. Modellerswanting to depict this vehicle in 1/35 scale have had two choices to date: the Tamiyakit, suitably desertised to represent an Operation Telic vehicle, first released in 2004,and several kits by Trumpeter, the first being released in 2003 with an improved version released eight years later.Ryefield Model is one of the most exciting modelmanufacturers around at themoment and it was an early Christmas present indeedwhen they released some images of their newly tooled Challenger 2 TES BritishMain Battle Tank(ref. 5039). The boxart shows the tank configured as the well-known ‘Megatron’’, a tank that hasbeen converted to the TheatreEntry Standard (TES) andis kept at Bovington and operated by the Armoured Trials and Development Unit for testing new configurations of the Challenger 2. It has frequently been displayed at The Tank Museum’s Tankfest in recent years.Judging from the sprue layout, RFM’s new kit allowsRyefield ModelDavid GrummittAn in-depth look at some of the latest releases12 Military Modelcraft International1/35
Ryefield ModelDavid Grummittyou to build a Challenger 2 TES in the so-called ‘Streetfighter’ configuration,complete with bar armour and extra anti-IED protection. It remains to be seen whether, with some help from Trumpeter’s kits, a standard Challenger 2 as currently deployed with the eFP can be built, but it shouldn’t be too much of a challenge. I, for one, can’t wait to get my hands of this. If RFM’s recent M1A2 Abrams kits are anything to go by, this will be a winner. Keep tuned for more news on this one.www.militarymodelcraftinternational.co.uk 131/35Available from all good model stockists and online from
Valkyrie MiniaturesEduardDavid GrummittKorean-firmValkyrieMiniatures produce a verynice range of modern tank crews and associated figures.Their latest releases continuethis trend.British Army Tank Crew 1970-80 Era(ref. 35031)contains two full figures (commander and loader) wearing DPM parkas and tank overalls (or ‘lightweights’?).A third component is a bustof the driver, similarly attired.The choice of two heads – one wearing a ‘bonedome’ and the other a beret – is available for each figure. These are verywelcome, as figures of this kind are few and far between, and are perfect for Chieftain,Challenger 1 or a CVR(T). NVA(Nationale Volksarmee)Border Guard with K9 Shepherd Dog 1980 Era(ref.35030) is a nice set, comprisingan East German officer/NCOand dog handler. Again, achoice of headgear is included. The figures, like all Valkyrie figures, are rather tall and slim, but the sculpting and quality of the casting is very good. Highly recommended. Valkyrie Miniatures are available from Fields Of Glory in the UK (www.fieldsofglorymodels.co.uk)and other good model shops worldwide. You can also see all the latest releases on Valkyrie Miniatures’ Facebook page.Eduard are, of course, best known for their photoetched detail sets and their militaryreleases, at least in comparisonto their aircraft-relatedreleases, have been modestin recent years. Their ‘Brassin’ range, however, continues to feature some excellentitems for military modellers.StG 44 Assault Rifle(ref. 635013) contains eightexquisitely detailed and cast resin rifles and four separatemagazines. These have much finer details than their plasticcounterparts. They are delicate,however, and care will be needed in removing them from the, albeit minimal, castinggates. No slings are provided.Sten Mk. II SMG(ref. 635015)is a similarly fine piece of casting. It includes eight guns, two types of folding stock (four of each) and four separate magazines. Photoetchedslings are provided. Panzerfaustt60(ref. 635016)contains eightPanzerfausts.Two of these are cast with the sight flipped up, ready to fire, while six are cast in ‘safe’ mode. These are very good and all three sets are highlyrecommended tofigure modellers and diorama builders looking for theultimate in scale accuracy.An in-depth look at some of the latest releases3503163501363501663501514 Military Modelcraft International1/351/35
AMMO by Mig JiménezTetra Model WorksObituary - Elizabeth WieseDavid GrummittDavid GrummittDavid GrummittThere is no doubt that modern camouflage prints are amongthe most challenging subjectfor figure painters, and, with somany excellent contemporary AFV kits now on the market, it’s something that armour modellers are increasingly having to get to grips with.AMMO have given us a good headstart in the formof Figures Set: Multicam Camouflage(ref. A.MIG-7028).This set contains the sixbasic colours in ‘Multicam’ camouflage, currently wornby the U.S., British and several other armed forces. It includes: Midgrey (AMMO.F-515), Yellow Green (AMMO.F-504), Pure Green (AMMO.F-528), Light Briown (AMMO.F-531), Brown Base (AMMO.F-508) and Light Sand (AMMO.F-511). You’llstill need a steady hand and nerve, good brushes andgood references to pull this off, but it’s a very good start. Less challenging, but noless useful, Figures Set:Panzer Crew (ref. A.MIG-7024)contains four paints necessaryto complete the characteristic black Panzer uniforms of WorldWar II German tank crews. The base colour here is Slate Grey (AMMO.F-522), highlighted with Grey Light Brown(AMMO.F-521) and Bluish Grey (AMMO.F-530) and Outlining Black (AMMO.F-502) to define the seams and pockets. Finally we have a set of four pigments and a bottle of Pigment Fixer, Winter/Autumn Ground Pigment Set (ref A.MIG-7455), ideallysuited to weathering vehiclesin autumnal or wintry settings. As ever, AMMO’s paints andweathering products are high quality and helpfullydesigned with the modeller in mind. They can be ordereddirect from the website (www.migjimenez.com) orfrom good model shops.Trumpeter’s T-80U, releasedlast year, is an excellent kit and one that modellers of modern Russian/Sovietequipment have beenwaiting for for some time. Tetra Model Worksnowgive you the opportunity to take this to the next level with Russian T-80U MBT Detail-Up Set w/Metal Barrel (ref. ME-35064). This a typicallycomprehensive set, includingfour sheets of photoetched brass. It consists in the main of replacement straps andbuckles, engine and wading equipment grilles, and turretERA blocks. It also includes a superb multi-part turnedmetal barrel. The set is alsoavailable without the barrel (ref. ME-35063). These are complex sets, designed for the experienced modellers, but will result in a breathtakingly detailed model. Check out their website for details of the full range (www. tetramodel.com).It was with great sadness that we learnt just afterChristmas of the death of Elizabeth Wiese (1987-2019), wife of renowned Spanishmodeller, Miguel Jiménez, and co-founder of the companyAMMO by Mig Jiménez.Eli, as she was known to her friends in the hobby,had fought glioblastoma, a form of brain cancer, forthree years. I never had the privilege of meeting her, but she made a very big impression on those she met at shows across the world. Our sincere condolences go to Mig and their son, Sukhoi. If you wish to findout more about brain cancer and how you can help find a cure, please look go to www.braintumourcharity.orgAn in-depth look at some of the latest releaseswww.militarymodelcraftinternational.co.uk 151/351/35MMI
A round up of the latest releasesHaulerPE Detail Set for TPz-1 Fuchs Eloka(for Revell kit)Scale:1/72Ref:HLH72096SRP:£TBASee: www.hauler.czD-Day Miniatures‘De Zwarte Duivels’ (Black Devils) WWII Dutch Army,Rotterdam 1940Scale:1/35Ref:35154SRP:£TBASee: www.ddayminiaturesstudio.comBrengunCulemeyer 6-Axle German Heavy TrailerScale:1/144Ref:BRS144048SRP:£TBASee: www.brengun.czAberUS M85 Heavy Machine Gun for M60, M728 & LVTP7 Scale:1/35Ref:35L-297SRP:£TBASee: www.aber.net.plHaulerPE Detail Set for Warrior MCV(for Revell kit)Scale:1/72Ref:HLH72097SRP:£TBASee: www.hauler.czDEF ModelSagged Wide Wheel Set (1)for German Staff Car Typeff82E (for Ryefield Model kit)Scale:1/35Ref:DW30045SRP:£TBASee: www.defmodel.comCriel ModelAutocarro Fiat 18BLScale:1/35Ref:R064SRP:£TBASee: www.crielmodel.itAce ModelSTS Tiger (Special Transport Vehicle 233014)Scale:1/72Ref:72177SRP:£TBASee: www.acemodel.com.uaHaulerNSVT 12.7mm Tank HeavyMachine Gun (x2)Scale:1/87Ref:HLR87200SRP:£TBASee: www.hauler.czDEF ModelSagged Wheel Set (3) for German Staff Car Type 82Eff(for Ryefield Model kit)Scale:1/35Ref:DW30047SRP:£TBASee: www.defmodel.comCriel ModelCarrello per Transporto Carri CV.33 e Carri Fiat 3000 mod.30Scale:1/35Ref:R065SRP:£TBASee: www.crielmodel.itAoshimaJGSDF AAVC7A1 RAM/RSAmphibious Assault (incl. Inflatable Dinghy & Figures)Scale:1/72Ref:056653SRP:£TBASee: www.aoshima-bk.co,jpHaulerWorkshop EquipmentScale:1/35Ref:HLU35117SRP:£TBASee: www.hauler.czFC Model Trend3D Printed/Resin Detail Set for Chilean Army M60 Super Sherman(for Dragon kit)Scale:1/35Ref:35544SRP:£TBASee: www.fcmodeltrend.comDan Taylor ModelworksPE Upgrade/Detail Setfor Humber Scout CarScale:1/72Ref:M-72504SRP:£TBASee: www.dantaylormodelworks.comBrengunCulemeyer 4-Axle German Heavy TrailerScale:1/144Ref:BRS144047SRP:£TBASee: www.brengun.cz16 Military Modelcraft International
A round up of the latest releasesHaulerKaelble Z6R Heavy Truck (WW2)Scale:1/120Ref:HTT120078SRP:£TBASee: www.hauler.czICMBritish Police Female OfficerScale:1/16Ref:16009SRP:£16.19See: www.icm.com.uaHistopicDecal Set for Hotchkiss H39 (Vol.2) 1ere Division Cuirassée, Belgium/France 1940Scale:1/35Ref:Fr40 35 025SRP:£TBASee: www.histopic.netICMle.gl.Einheits-Pkw Kfz.2WWII German Light Radio Communication Car Scale:1/35Ref:35583SRP:£26.99See: www.icm.com.uaHaulerT-72 Main Battle TankScale:1/120Ref:HTT120079SRP:£TBASee: www.hauler.czICMTyp 320 (W142) Saloon with German Staff PersonnelffScale:1/35Ref:35539SRP:£25.19See: www.icm.com.uaIBG ModelsM1897 75mm Field GunScale:1/35Ref:35058SRP:£TBASee: www.ibg.com.plICMFrench Zouaves (1914)Scale:1/35Ref:35709SRP:£8.99See: www.icm.com.uaIBG ModelsV3000S/SS M Maultier German HalftrackScale:1/72Ref:72073SRP:£TBASee: www.ibg.com.plHistopicDecal Set for Dodge WC54 Ambulance (FFL)Scale:1/35Ref:FrFl 35 010SRP:£TBASee: www.histopic.netK.U.K. MiniaturesUnternehmen Konrad(incl. 4 Figures)Scale:1/35Ref:TB-35140SRP:£TBASee: www.thebodi.euMeng ModelUS Assault Tank M4A3E2 JumboScale:1/35Ref:TS-045SRP:£TBASee: www.meng-model.comHaulerRenault FT-17 (WW1)Scale:1/120Ref:HTT120081SRP:£TBASee: www.hauler.czHaulerGAZ-69 Army VehicleScale:1/120Ref:HTT120080SRP:£TBASee: www.hauler.czMagic ModelsTurned-Brass 30mm 2A42 Gun Barrels for T-15 Armata & K-17 ‘VPK-7829’ BoomerangScale:1/35Ref:MM3520SRP:£TBASee: www.magicmodels.ruMeng ModelRussian Air Defense WeaponSystem 96K6 Pantsir-S1 Sagged Wheel SetScale:1/35Ref:SPS-068SRP:£TBASee: www.meng-model.com18 Military Modelcraft International
A round up of the latest releasesMonroe Perdu StudiosSide-Skirt Zimmerit for Pz.IV(for Zvezda kit)Scale:1/72Ref:119SRP:£TBASee: www.monroeperdu.comNuts PlanetSword Master DoheeScale:1/10 BustRef:SB006SRP:£TBASee: www.nutsplanet.comMK35Hummel/Nashorn CrewScale:1/43Ref:M43-051SRP:£TBASee: www.mk35.comModel MiniatureLeclerc Trop (UAE Version)Scale:1/72Ref:MM-R232SRP:£TBASee: www.model-miniature.comMiniArtT-55 Polish Prod.Scale:1/35Ref:37068SRP:£TBASee: www.miniart-models.comModel MiniatureTurret for Leclerc MBT (FOROPS Version)Scale:1/72Ref:MM-R233SRP:£TBASee: www.model-miniature.comMicroDesignSet for Rolls-Royce1914/1920 Meng Scale:1/35Ref:035346SRP:£TBASee: www.microdisign.ruMiniArtRailway Non-Brake Flatbed 16.5tScale:1/35Ref:39004SRP:£TBASee: www.miniart-models.comMilicastDeacon 6pdr Gun CarrierScale:1/76Ref:UK375SRP:£TBASee: www.milicast.comMilicastDeacon Ammunition CarrierScale:1/76Ref:UK376SRP:£TBASee: www.milicast.comMK35Afrika Korps Motorcycle & Side-car Crew, North Africa 1942Scale:1/43Ref:M43-052SRP:£TBASee: www.mk35.comMiniArtSoviet Tank Crew – WinterUniform, 1970-1980sScale:1/35Ref:37063SRP:£TBASee: www.miniart-models.comMiniArtDinner on the FrontScale:1/35Ref:35325SRP:£TBASee: www.miniart-models.comNuts PlanetRifleman JessScale:1/35Ref:T35010SRP:£TBASee: www.nutsplanet.comMiniArtModern Street CafeScale:1/35Ref:35610SRP:£TBASee: www.miniart-models.comMiniArtModern Oil Drums 200LScale:1/35Ref:35615SRP:£TBASee: www.miniart-models.com20 Military Modelcraft International
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A round up of the latest releasesNuts PlanetSharpshooter KeeleyScale:1/35Ref:T35011SRP:£TBASee: www.nutsplanet.comParacel MiniaturesNVA Tank Crew(incl. 3 Figures & Accessories)(for A.MIG 8502 kit)Scale:1/72Ref:MINI7201SRP:£TBASee: www.paracelminiatures.comOKB GrigorovTurret for Pz.V Panther 2cm Flakvierling, Rhein-metall ProposalScale:1/72Ref:B72016SRP:£TBASee: www.okbgrigorov.comStalingradLove in Wartime, 1943-45Scale:1/35Ref:S-3578SRP:£TBASee: www.stalingrad.diorama.ruTamiyaGerman InfantrySet (Mid WWII)(incl. Weapons & Equipment)Scale:1/35Ref:371SRP:£TBASee: www.tamiya.comParacel MiniaturesMiddle East Tank Crews (incl. 4 Figures & Accessories)Scale:1/72Ref:MINI7204SRP:£TBASee: www.paracelminiatures.comOKB GrigorovTurret for T-34-122 D11 by Factory No.9Scale:1/72Ref:B72017SRP:£TBASee: www.okbgrigorov.comYellow House ClubRussian Medical Nurse on Night Service (WWI)Scale:54mmRef:YH5402SRP:£TBASee: www.facebook.com/pg/yellowhouseclubYellow House ClubRussian Nurse (WWI)Scale:54mmRef:YH32001SRP:£TBASee: www.facebook.com/pg/yellowhouseclubYellow House ClubGerman Tankman No.2 forBeutepanzer Mk.IV (WWI)Scale:1/35Ref:YH35011SRP:£TBASee: www.facebook.com/pg/yellowhouseclubYellow House ClubGerman Tankman No.3 (WWI)Scale:1/35Ref:YH35016SRP:£TBASee: www.facebook.com/pg/yellowhouseclubYellow House ClubLe Char D’AssautPeugeot mod.1918 withSA18 37mm (WWI) Scale:1/35Ref:YH35021SRP:£TBASee: www.facebook.com/yellow-houseclubYellow House ClubGerman Tankman No.1 forBeutepanzer Mk.IV (WWI)Scale:1/35Ref:YH35010SRP:£TBASee: www.facebook.com/pg/yellowhouseclubYellow House ClubGerman Soldier withBoxes (WWI)Scale:1/35Ref:YH35009SRP:£TBASee: www.facebook.com/pg/yellowhouseclubYellow House ClubGerman Freikorps Of-ficer No.1 (WWI)Scale:1/35Ref:YH35005SRP:£TBASee: www.facebook.com/pg/yellowhouseclubYellow House ClubFrench Tankman (WWI)Scale:1/35Ref:YH35003SRP:£TBASee: www.facebook.com/pg/yellowhouseclub22 Military Modelcraft International
CONTEMPORARY AFVsIguess most military modellers will be familiar with the M25 tank transporter (commonlyreferred to as ‘Dragon Wagon’).Perhaps less well-known is that this nickname is also widely used to refer to the currentHEMTT (Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck). With production beginning in 1982, this eight-wheel drive, diesel-powered, 9,100kg tactical vehicle entered service with the US Army as a replacement forthe M520 Goer. To date, around35,000 HEMTTs have been produced by the Wisconsin-based company, Oshkosh.The vehicle can be found in various configurations: cargocarrier, fuel tanker, wrecker,and even a fire fighting truck. The tractor (M983) variant is capable of towing the Patriotmissile systems and other trailers (such as the M870A1 40-ton low bed semi-trailer for carrying light AFVs).HEMTTs in Miniature While various manufacturers have produced kits of many of the HEMTT variants, fewexist of the vehicle coupledwith the M870A1 trailer. Trumpeteroffer one in 1/35 scale(ref. 01055), the only other (in 1/72 scale) being from Modelcollect(ref. UA72083). Keen to tackle the subject in small scale, I opted for the latter, and was pleased to find that Tetra Model Works producea detail set (ref. ME-72011)specifically designed for this kit.My initial plan was to mount an Abrams tank on the trailer,but then I found out that with a vehicle of that weight (and even something such as a Bradley), the load bed would need to be extended with outriggers. This would require a fair amount of scratch-building … not reallywhat I had in mind! The solution was to have the vehicle carrying a HMMWV, the perfect choicebeing T-Model’s ‘UpM1114’ (ref. TM-7201).The Build Having already built one of Modelcollect’s HEMTT kits, I was well aware of the negativeaspects, not least the multi-part chassis frame and rather flimsy axles. These points tendto spoil what is an otherwisesplendid kit. The engine bay is well detailed, and the driver’scab includes at least the basic elements (photo 1). At this early stage, I began to add someof the photoetched details fromthe TMW set (includingthe mesh panels, which are far superior to solid items foundin the kit)(photo 2).My earlier HEMTT model was from one of Modelcollect’s ‘limitededition’ kits. Less thanhappy with my work on this one, I decided to ‘recycle’ certain partsfor my new project.These included the in wheels (provided by DEF Model), and various photo-Roman Volchenkov models a Small-Scale HEMTT.24 Military Modelcraft Internationalilitary Modelcraft International24 M
CONTEMPORARY AFVsetched partsstart on the trailer, anfurther TMW details as perinstructions. Using a slow-dry CA glue was crucial here, as it allowed more flexibilitybefore final curing (photo 3). While studying various reference images, I noticed thatthe designers at Modelcollecthad omitted the tractor/trailer connector cables, andthe side winch needed to be replaced by a storage box.These items were scratch-nts yrenesheet. Additionally, the centralwinch was detailed, again using copper wire and spare parts from the box(photo 4).www.militarymodelcraftinternational.co.uk 25Availability:Modelcollect 1/72 M983A2 HEMTT Tractor with M870A1 Semi-Trailer (ref. UA72083) andT-Model 1/72 US. Modern M1114 Up-armored HMMWV(ref. TM72-01) are available from good model shops.
CONTEMPORARY AFVsReturning to the trailer, I replaced the moulded tie-down shackles with copper wire versions attached to loops from the TMW set. At this stage, the laser-cutwooden deck sections were left unattached to make life easierduring the painting stage.Given the scale, I was quite surprised by the wealth of detail in T-Model’s HMMWV kit. While one could addfurther interior detail, there is really no need; very little is visible once the doors and hatches are closed, and thewindows given a light coat of dust(photo 5). Conveniently,the vehicle’s extended-nosesection is provided as a clear part (including the headlights).To enhance the lights, I added a pair of Elf reflectors, and secured these using AMMO’s ‘Ultra Glue’(photo 6). My only criticism with the T-Model kit is the representation of the tyre-tread pattern. Made from several parts (and built around the wheel rim), they need a fair amount of filling/sanding for a good result. The‘lazy’ option was to acquire aset produced by Scissor Hands (via eBay). They do require somerefinement, but the flattened base to the tyres gives a good impressionof the vehicle’s weight (photo 7). I was particularlyimpressed by the fact that the side windows could be simplyinserted between the interior/exterior door panels, avoiding the risk of glue vapour ‘fogging’ the transparencies. Duringconstruction, the only area of the model that required fillerwas between the rear sidewallsand rooff (photos 8 & 9). Painting, Marking & WeatheringSomething I had noticed in reference images of vehicles in both Iraq and Afghanistan, was just how well they aremaintained (with surprisingly little evidence of damage topaintwork). Of course, the nature of the terrain results in a heavy accumulationof dust and dirt, so this would be a key feature in my weathering process.As always, the first task was to apply a good coat of primer 26 Military Modelcraft International
CONTEMPORARY AFVsto all elements; particularlyimportant when dealing with a multi-media model such as this. AMMO’s ‘One Shot Primer’ is ideal for this job, and is perfectly suited to airbrush application (photo 10). The cab interiorsof both vehicles were thengiven a base coat of light green, and details brush-painted in appropriate colours(photo11). To add visual interest tothe HEMTT cab, I added a fewitems fromT-Model’s ‘ModernUS Military Equipment’ set(ref. A72001)(photo 12). Beforeattaching the windows (using clear glue) and closing the cab, I applied a light wash and dust-tone pigments to the interior.Painting the HMMWV proved to be somewhat more difficult, as I had already attached the roof, and needed to carefully mask the windows and windscreen(photo13). In both cases, the base colour was made from a mix of Vallejo acrylics … what Iwould describe as a ‘warm sand yellow’, with a small amount of white added for highlights. The trailer was painted in a colour approximating to IDFgreen, and similarly highlighted(photo 14). Again, tyres,cables and other smaller details were brush-painted(photo 15). Disappointingly,the HEMTT’s lights are allintegrally moulded, so I neededto find a way of replicating the translucent quality to these.The answer was to give each a coat of silver paint, followedby appropriate colours fromAMMO’s ‘Acrylic Crystal’ range, and finally a touch of gloss varnish(photo 16).The HMMWV received a series of pin-washes (dilutedoil paints applied with a fine-pointed brush), and any excesswas removed with a clean brush(photo 17). Compared with thetrailer bed, the HMMWV would show more in the way of dirtand dust. Again, oil colours were spattered over the relevantsurfaces to give the impressionof thrown-up dirt and mud, and a heavier build-up around the wheels and chassis was recreated using products from AMMO’s ‘TexturedMud’ range(photo 18).
CONTEMPORARY AFVsThe next step was take further items from T-Model’s ‘MilitaryEquipment’ set, and find logical places where thesecould be positioned around each of the vehicles. The clear plastic ‘drinks bottles’ were tinted with AMMO’s ‘Acrylic Crystal’, and the other itemspainted and weathered accordingly(photo 19).I decided to present theHMMWV without markings, though these are normally present on the HEMTT. Findingthe kit-supplied decals to berather thick, I needed to applythem with the help of AMMOs ‘Decal Set’ and ‘Decal Fix’ products, having first preparedthe surfaces with a coat of satin varnish. Thankfully, a final coatof varnish did the trick (photo20). As with the HMMWV, the HEMTT received a series of pin-washes, the various itemsof stowage were added, and colours from AMMO’s ‘Splashes’ range were used to replicate a heavy coat of dust. This was blended over the surfaces, with particular attention being given to the tyre side-walls and treads (photos 21 & 22). model, the low-bed trailer. The wooden deck sections have a self-adhesive surface backing,so it was simply a case of removing the protective film, and positioning them over the already-painted frame. The fresh wood was suitably weathered with enamels, followed byseveral light coats of hairspray. Once this was completely dry,I airbrushed the green base-coat over the surface, and used a moist brush to carry out ‘chipping’ effects(photos 23& 24). Paint chipping to theinvolved the use of oil paints, which were then blended using a brush moistened with enamel thinner (photo 25). Lighter shades of oil colour were then mixed with small amounts of pigment and thinner, andused to replicate accumulateddust and dirt around the trailer(photo 26).Darker oil colours were then flicked from the end of a brush to create the appearance of grease stainsand grime in selected areas. The HMMWV was loaded ontothe trailer (fixed in place with
CONTEMPORARY AFVsCA glue), and the securingchains (from the TMW set) attached. To understand howthese would be arranged, I consulted a vehicle tie-downmanual (from a US Army source). Evidently, this differsaccording to the trailer type andthe vehicle being carried, but my arrangement appears to be reasonably accurate (photo 27).All that remainedwas to add myitems of stowage,replicate furtherfuel/grease stains,and airbrush matt black over the exhaust to give the impression of heavy ‘sooting’ (photo 28). And with that, the project was complete,and ready to be displayed alongside another trailer combo that I completed several years ago … JGSDF Type 73 with Type 10 tank (Aoshima and Fujimi kits, withTMW photoetched details).I really enjoyed this project and am looking forwardto my next Small-Scalebuild, Takom’s ‘M1070 &M1000 w/D9R Bulldozer’. www.militarymodelcraftinternational.co.uk 29
WORDS AND PICTURESCONTEMPORARY AFVs2M978 Fueller15M978A2 CABThe driver’s side of the same M978A2. At the NTC, units are typically living in the field for nearly a month, and so live out of their vehicles. This truck is an example of the same. Littering is strictly forbidden, and so all crews carry garbage bags with them.The same vehicle from the passenger’s side.2M978 Fueller19The exhaust, showing varied colours from use.The power steering hydraulic oil tank. Next to it is a frame for holding chock blocks, chains, etc.The air filter cleaner intake is located on the left fender, behind the driver. Behind that, is the power steering hydraulic oil tank. Also, holes are located in the fender for the ladder hooks to secure to when the ladder is put in place. There are similar holes on the opposite side fender, as well as the top of the cab skid plate.M978A2 Under Maintenance 1M977 Cargo Truck21M977 Cargo Truck3M983A4 LET (Light Equipment Transporter)28Details of the winch and cracked battery box.This oblique left side angle shows the tyre weathering to good effect.Holes in the fender are for the mounting of the work ladder of the HEMTT.33A two-speed hydraulic winch is situated in front of the cargo bed of the M984A2 and protected by a wire mesh grille. The cable is 67m long and has a pulling capacity of 27,240kg.A different vehicle from the same unit at the NTC. A DVE is mounted on the front of the cab.A Pennsylvania National Guard M984A2 at the motor pool at Fort Indiantown Gap. An otherwise clean truck shows a rusty looking acetylene tank mounted on the right rear of the cargo bed.4M984 Wrecker5M985 Cargo Truck51The covers for the emergency air and brake lines are dangling on chains in this photograph.The tow pintle and rear brake lights.A close-up of the crane’s range diagram.An overall view of the Grove MHC985 Crane and the two hydraulically operated outriggers. The crane’s control panel is located on the left.6M1120 LHS (Load Handling System)63An LHS with an M3 CROP flatrack on board.A close-up of the CHU (Container Handling Unit). The CHU is an add-on kit that allows loading and unloading of ISOstandard containers.An overhead view of the rear slider assembly, which guides the container onto the LHS. On the left-side of the chassisis the black collapsible ladder latched to the frame.11MK48 LVS (Logistics Vehicle System) and MKR18 LVSR (Logistics Vehicle System Replacement)98Data plates are normally found on the driver’s door. The MK48 with the 5th Wheel Semi-Trailer; but in these photos the trailer is disconnected from the 5th wheel.A MK48 power unit with a MK16 MOD0 Trailer, 5th Wheel Semi-Trailer. This combination was designed to pull loads of up to 64 tons, which at the time could pull an Abrams tank.This view of the MK48 power unit shows the oddly angled exhaust of the vehicle, and the auxiliary fuel tank located on the right fender behind the crew cab.Model Foto FocusRobert BurikHEMTTand Family Members21st Century
www.militarymodelcraftinternational.co.uk 31# # # # $ # # # # # # # \" # # $ # \" # # # # # # # # $ # $ $ # \" $ $ # $ $ # # # # # $ $ $ $ \" # # # # \" # # # # # # # # # # # # $ # ! # # # # # \" # # # # # # # # # # ## # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # \" # \" # # # # ! \" # # $ # # # # # # # # # # EXTENSIVE 1/76th SCALE VEHICLE AND CONVERSION RANGES OF ARMOUR AND SOFTSKINS FROM WORLD WAR 1 TO THE 2000’S andAirfield Accessoriess 1/48th, 1/72nd, 1/76th and 1/144th scale ranges of British and German airfield vehicles and equipment, including ambulances, refuellers, tractors, G Sd pi li thicles, bomb trolleys, etc.NEW: BW MODELS MILITARY TRANSFERS. 1/72nd scale AIRFIELD FIGURES and 1/76th scale CIVVY STREET RANGE.1/144th scale VEHICLES and AIRCRAFT COCKPIT DETAILS.See our updated website: www.matadormodels.co.ukFor full A5 catalogue please send sae or 2 IRCs to:MATADOR MODELS 6 Cliffe Road, Barton on Sea, NEW MILTON, Hants. BH25 7PB. Fax: 01425 628219 1/76 REME Half Track M91/76 Universal Carrier Wading Screen1/76 Scorpion /Scimitar upgrade setSee us at On Track, Folkestone, 22nd February 2020
The inter-war periodwas characterised byexperimentation in newmilitary technology developed during the Great War. This wasparticularly so with aviation, butthe tank as a decisive weapon had not really been given the same attention. At this time, various multi-turreted tankswere being developed, one such being the Soviet T-28. Conceived as a medium tank, the prototype was completedin 1931, with production beginning in the following year. Accepted by the Soviet Army as an infantry supporttank, it was one of the world’s first medium tanks, intended to complement the heavier T-35.The T-28’s armamentconsisted of a 7.62mm KT-28 howitzer housed in the main turret, and four 7.62mm machine guns (one coaxial, one in each of two smaller turrets, and one in the rear of the main turret). Despite thisimpressive array of firepower,the T-28 enjoyed only limitedsuccess in combat, though itplayed an important role as a development project forSoviet tank designers; various ideas and solutions that were tried out on the vehicle were incorporated in future models.The Model Currently, the only 1/72-scale kits of this tank are from Trumpeter: a welded-turretversion(ref. 07150), and arivetted-turret version(ref.07151). Opting for the latter, I was generally pleased with the quality of moulding andlevel of detail. That said, I felt that it would benefit from a few scratch-builtadditions/upgrades to putthe finishing touches to anotherwise decent model. The first task was to improve the appearance of the exhaustunit. A sharp blade was used to thin the underside of the heat shield to give the impression that this was separate from the manifold body, and the two exhaust pipes were replaced by short lengths of aluminium tube (the ends cutto 60° to matchthe real items). Ialso used myblade tothin doas the lifting andshackles (photo 1).Disappointingly, the kit designers have failed to include any representation of the air-intake grilles. To remedy this,I added sections of fine-meshmosquito net, and edged these with 2mm plastic strip to hide the cut edges of the net(photo 2). A furtherimprovement wasto add the variousgrab handlesaround the rom to 3). Theweld seams, made in each of eriscopes; a simple task sing the tip of an awl (photo4). Before moving on to the painting stage, I applied Tamiya putty (diluted with acetone) tothe area around the running gear, to give the impression of built-up dirt and mud (photo5). With the basic construction complete(photo 6), it was timeto prime the entire model with a coat of Gunze Sangyo’s.Surfacer 1000.Once this wasompletely dry, and thesurfaces carefully checked for any blemishes, I was readyto make a start on the painting.Fernando Olszewskijoins theMMI team with a Small-Scale stunner.32 Military Modelcraft InternationalWORLD WAR II
www.militarymodelcraftinternational.co.uk 33WORLD WAR IIHJEGIF
References suggest that early Soviet tanks were painted in a lighter green than their latercounterparts. With this in mind,I prepared a 7:3 mix of Gunze Sangyo’s H58 (Semi-Gloss Interior Green) and Tamiya’s XF-65 (Field Grey). Successive highlights were then applied,first by adding a small amount of a buff colour to the mix, and then white, until I was satisfied with the appearance (photo7). This was followed by a series of oil-based filters, designedto reduce the contrasts, and to reinstate the overall green tone (photo 8). The nextstep was to highlight smaller details such as panel edges and rivet heads. These weredry-brushed using an 8:2 mix of Vallejo 70.857 (Golden Olive) and 70.951 (White). The same colour was used tohighlight some of the upperpanels to provide a much-needed contrast (photo 9).A feature of this kit is the integrally-moulded wheel/track units. Although this makes life easier during construction, it does require great care when painting the various elements. With the wheel hubs given a coat of the vehicle’s base colour,the tyres were picked out withVallejo 71.315 (Tyre Black), and the tracks painted with an equal mix of 71.042 (Dark Brown) and 71.080 (Rust). At this point, I was not sure whetherthe return rollers would have been rubber-tyred; apparently they were, so I would need to finish these off accordinglyat a later stage(photo 10).Following an overall coat of gloss varnish, I sourced suitable decal markings from my spares box … vehicle number ‘33’, and applied these with thehelp of Microscale’s ‘Set & Sol’ products. These were then sealed with a coat of satin varnish, in preparation for the weathering stages (photo 11). Weathering began with a series of oil-based washes (a combination of Dark Earth and Burnt Umber). The aimwas to darken the underlying colour, and (using downward strokes) create streaking effects over sloping and vertical panels (photo 12). The Dark Earth oil paint was also used to emphasise shadow in recesses; applied undiluted, then blended with a moist brush for a more naturalappearance(photo 13). To recreate surface scratches, Ibegan by applying the initial marks using my Golden Olive/White mix, and followed with a diluted version to add tiny scratches. A toothpick was then used to modify or remove some of the marks until I was happy with the result (photo 14).I was now ready to replicate further damage to areas such as panel edges, fuel tanks and the engine deck. Vallejo 70.822 (German Cam Black Brown) was applied to give the impression of damage that had extendedto the underlying metal. Havingadded extensive damage toone of the fenders, I then hadsecond thoughts … at least Icould conceal this with a layer of dust and other weathering effects(photo 15). Before moving on to the next stage, I treated the exhaust to a base coat of German Cam Black Brown mixed with a suitable rust colour (photo 16).What I refer to as ‘chromaticvariation’, the next step involvedthe use of various oil colours tocreate faded streaking effectsand distressed paintwork. Essentially, the techniquecalls for heavily diluted paint mixed witha small amount of white. With most of the paint removedfrom the brush, the remaining traceswere then applied to relevant surfaces to subtlylighten the colours. Any excesscould be easily removed using a brush moistened with thinner (photo 17). The ‘fading’ effect was extended using the currently popular ‘dot’ technique; small spots of colour applied to vertical surfaces, and blended until almost unnoticeable (photo 18). Fuel stains and rust effects were now applied to the rear portions of the model (photo 19).And now for some serious weathering, beginning with a heavy accumulation of dust(compliments of a hot Russiansummer during‘OperationBarbarossa’). The basicingredients … oil paints: BurntUmber, Raw Umber, White andYellow Ochre. The ratios were really not important; more acase of judging by eye to createa pleasing effect, and achieving a contrast between areasthat would logically collectdust and those that would be relatively clean. With thecolours applied, I blended them using an almost-dry brush, and followed by flicking a darkermixture over certain areas to give the impression of splashes of mud and dirt. As mentionedearlier, the fender was givenspecial treatment (mainly tocover up my failed attempt atreplicating heavily chipped paintwork) (photos 20 & 21). Until recently, I have tendedto simply use pigments (secured with fixer) to recreate the heavy build-up of mud over lower areas. Finding this method difficult to control, I have since opted for Vallejo’srange of acrylic ‘Mud’ products,mixed with AK Interactive’s AK-042 (European Earth Pigment). On this occasion I wanted a fairly thick texture, so I mixedthe products to achieve this,and applied it with an old brush around the lower hull, chassis and return rollers(photo 22).34 Military Modelcraft InternationalWORLD WAR IIEEEIKEM
www.militarymodelcraftinternational.co.uk 35WORLD WAR IILEFEGELFDFEFFMEDEHEKEJ
Allowing the ‘mud’ to completely dry, I returned to the hull sides, and added further dust streaks, and blended these with a moist brush. Tonal variation was now applied to the ‘mud’, again using a series of washes, and similarly to other vertical surfaces (photo 23).With the tracks already base-painted, it was simply a case of applying dust-tone washes,and finally rubbing the raised portions with a graphite stick to replicate polishedmetal (photo 24).And now for the finishingtouches: artist’s pigment to theexhaust manifold to suggest varying levels of corrosion, black pigment to represent‘sooting’ around the exhaustpipes (photo 25), a repeat of the ‘graphite’ treatment to metalportions of the stowed tools (photo 26), and a few oil/fuelstains around the engine deck. And with that, the model was complete. 36 Military Modelcraft InternationalWORLD WAR IIFHFJFGFIAvailability:Trumpeter 1/72 Soviet T-28 Medium Tank (Rivetted) (ref. 07151)is available from good model shops. Trumpeter kits are distributed in the UK by Pocketbond (www.pocketbond.co.uk).
After the fall of France in June 1940 French tank design, which had led the world in the 1930s, took an enforced hiatus. In 1945 the designers at the AMX factory designers chose the heavy route for future tank design. The first plans were drawn up and named ‘Char AMX M4’ or ‘Project 141’ between 1946 to 1948. This design changed many times and had similaritiesto the German King Tiger witha projected weight in excess of 50 tonnes. The final weight of the vehicle this was dependant on its armour thickness and armament arrangement and itwould not be until 1953 before a first prototypewas built featuring a 120mm gun housed in a full rotating turretwith a total weight of 59 tonnes. Overthe next few years many design changeswere introducedto finally produce what the AMX 50 Surblindé (‘AMX 50 Daniel Brookerreturns with France’s ‘What-if’ Cold War Super Tank.p)the 120mm main gun, butwith a piked nosed hull design similar to the Soviet IS-3. The weight exceeded that of the first prototype which, in part, froze any future progress onthis heavy tank project, and it was not until 1958 that theproject was restarted with a new design and prototype, the AMX 50Surbaissé (‘AMX 50 Low Profile’). A short while later, in January 1959, the thirteen-year heavy tank programme was finally cancelled afterunpromising field trials.AMX 65 With the ever expandinginterest and popularity of the online tank gaming scene designs submitted andproduced for these games canoften be a good reference for us modellers and this formed the idea for this project. AMX factory plans were drawn up of this tank during the late 1940s with limited details of the intended finished tank available. I used some artisticlicence with help from some 3D renders produced by an I then decided on an idea of a post-War heavy tank produced and put into action in a fictional future conflict.The BuildWith the plans printed and scaled to 1/35, I cut them out and glued them to card which were used as templates to betraced onto some 2mm styrene sheet. I started by gluing the lower hull together using Tamiya Extra ThinCement. This allowed me to get everythingstraight and square and once happy Super Glue could then be applied to everyjoint and cured with CA activator.Further supportswere added in areas that would supportthe turret ring, engine deck and other key structural areas. With the basic shape now ready I carefully selected parts from mydonor kit (Tamiya’s old KingTiger kit). I could then carefully 38 Military Modelcraft InternationalCOLD WAR21
measure and drill the holes inthe lower hull for the torsion bars, along with the roadwheels. The chassis was thenplaced on a flat surface to make sure there was no floatingwheels while the glue dried. Some more careful measuringsaw the final drives and idler arms installed and, with this stage complete, I moved ontoconstructing the engine deck.1Basic constructionof the hull using 2mm styrene sheet.2The lower hull was constructed in thesame way and joined to the upper hull.3A mixture of resin and SLA 3D-printed partsready for clean up and construction of the turret.4Test fitting and sandingof the 3D-printed turret.tarymodelcraftinternational.co.uk 39COLD WAR 43
COLD WARI planned its layout using the 3D render as a guide and rough measurements fromthe King Tiger kit. I fitted the engine fan housings along with fuel cap covers, engine hatch and recessed bolt holes.Now began the labour-intensive task of preparing the model for paint. I started bysanding the surface and filling any gaps and seams. To check for imperfections Tamiya rattle can primer was applied and allow to dry. It then was thensanded smooth again and this process allowed me to move onto scribing the weld joints and texturing the thickestarmour plates to representrolled homogenous armour. To achieve a nice texture I used the simple method of mixing plastic cement with putty and applying it with a brush. Once dry and a little light sanding achieved asatisfactory result. Now for themost time consuming aspectof the build: adding the weld beads. I used the simple but trusty method of Tamiya Quick Dry two-part epoxy putty rolledinto thin strips and added tothe previously scribed lines of the interlocking armour. Acustom-made tool was thenpressed into the putty toachieve the weld beads, this was then left to dry overnight.I then turned my attention to the turret. I had originallyplanned to scratchbuild theturret, but was contacted by a fellow modeller who offered his services in 3D design and printing of the turret. I gladly accepted this generous offer and awaited the arrival of the parts. The 3D-printedturret was very basic in shapewithout much texture, so a lot of sanding and texturing was necessary to obtain theappearance I originally had inmind. The turret details were similarly 3D-printed in resin and I was truly impressed with the quality and minimal clean up required to get these ready to be fitted to the tank. All that was left now werethe last parts to be decided on and fitted to the tank along with the construction of the Fruilmodel tracks.PaintingBefore I start applying anyprimer or paint, I always bathethe tank disassmbled in a warmsoapy solution to remove any contaminants or grease that would effect the adhesion of the paint. At the beginning of the project I wanted toexperiment with some new techniques, so I began with the so-called ‘black and white’ technique. I applied black first, followed by a light dustingof white primer. I wanted thewhite to be on the highest areas of the tanks to represent a form of ‘zenithal lighting’. Isprayed the white in light layers built up over time making sure the previous layer was dry.5The engine deck was attached and detailed using photoetch grills.6The King Tiger suspension, final drivesand idler parts were now installed.7The turret was now sanded, filled and textured and the basic details added.8The completed turret.9Primer was applied and sanded to fill any surface imperfections.10Carefully using a circle cutter, a turret ring was created and detailed with some recessed bolt details.11I then moved my attention tothe engine deck and added the the last 3D-printed details.12The fine resin 3D-printedexhausts were now cleanedup and attached to the rear of the hull. In my haste these were later broken and rendered unrepairable!13With a razor saw I carefully scribed the armour plate joints ready for the upcoming weld beads.14A scribing tool was now usedto clean up the freshly cut joints and used in hard-to-reach areasthat the saw could not get to.15Epoxy putty was used for thebasis of the weld beads.16The finished weld beads.17Texturing was now applied using a thin mixture of Tamiyaglue and putty and stippled ontothe model using a old brush.18Extra details were added tothe turret using parts from the spares box such as this vision block.19The 3D-printed mantlet was nowjoined to the main gun barrel.20The final fit of the turret and hull to check fit issues before priming could begin.21Fitting the roadwheels and sprockets.22The finished model minus tracks.23he parts for the fenders designed and cut from copper sheet.24The fender parts solderedand attached to the hull.40 Military Modelcraft International22171814106139521
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COLD WAR42 Military Modelcraft International373835342529332630273139
COLD WAR Now came the task of decidingon a shade of green to be used as a base for the model. Uponlooking at post-War French tanks and the 3D renders from the wargaming site, I opted for a bright, mid tone green. I used my trusty Tamiya acrylics mix upa darker base tone which was then was applied by a airbrush in a random mottled coat trying not to completely cover theprimer, which I needed to show through for the ‘black-and-white’ shading effect. I mixed up two lighter shades of my basecolour and then applied them in the same manner but using less paint then the previouslast layer each time. I then decided to do something very risky: adding a darker chipped layer over the base colours to simulate a worn, discolouredand over-painted surface. Iadded a few light layers of hairspray and sprayed a dark tone lightly in the areas that I wanted to chip. Chipping wasachieved using warm water, a brush and an old airbrush needle. I scrubbed picked and chipped away at the green and, almost to my disbelief, it workedreally well. It gave a lot of depth to the base colours and with the upcoming weathering wouldmatch precisely what I had in mind for the final appearance.WeatheringI now had to be very careful in what I added to the base tones as to not ruin the underlying chipped surface and change the tones too drastically. ThusI opted to not add a filter, as Ifelt this was not necessary, so I started by selecting a few oil paints and applied these in dots with a brush. I kept the lighter colours to the upperportions and darker colours to the lower areas. I used AMMOOdourless Thinner to aid the blending process and then added some pin washes to accentuate the details. I chose to use AK Interactive’s Nato Wash, applied using a finebrush and cleaned up using the odourless thinners. Oncedry I started the slow task of micro chipping the armour plates. I ripped a dish washingsponge into smaller chunksand applied tiny spots onto the model. A lighter shade of the base colour was used, first then a darker steel colour wasadded over the top and a brush used to make larger random chips. Lighter faint lines were also applied using a brush to represent scratches on the paint surface. Shadows were createdin certain areas to highlight details by mixing small amounts of black and brown oil paint, then blending with thinners.Once dry further blending was achieved by using a dry round brush. Now the majority of the weathering effects had been added, the tools and small details were base paintedand weathered. The nextmammoth task was to try a newdusting technique by mixing Vallejo’s light mud splatterand similar-coloured dustpigment. This was then appliedin small random patches and blended using water. This gave a convincing watery dusteffect, which was built up in multiple stages. To add furthercontrast I added AK Interactive Fresh Mud enamel wash inthe shadowed areas to depictareas of darker damp dirt. Oiland grease stains were added in some of these patches using Wilder’s Diesel Stains enamel wash. The lighter and darkertones were then speckled over the tank to add further variation to the surface. The lower surfaces of the hull had a light dried mud mixture added to certain areas using Wilder’sFine Grey mud mixture and thiswas then blended with water.Rainmarks were added usingthe same mixture alongsidesome further speckling.Darker Fresh Mud enamelswere used for the deepest shadow areas and blended with thinners as in previous stages. The roadwheels weregiven the same treatment toblend with the lower hull.25The parts ready for a coat of primer.26The base colours used in varying layers and applied by airbrush in a mottling technique.27The surface was distressed usingby a layer of hairspray followed bythe darkest tone then chipped accordingly.28A dark enamel wash was applied over the weld beads and details toseparate each panel and refine the contrast.29Using a limited palette of oilcolours, I added some tonal variations to the base colours not wanting to over do it and ruin the base colours.30With some French decals added,the chipping stage could begin using a fine sponge and brush.31Over the largest darker chipsa rust wash was carefullyapplied and blended with thinners to represent surface rust.32Smaller details, like the Tetra fireextinguisher decals, were applied and weathered to add to the realism33An array of tarpaulins,ammo crates and supplies were finally painted and weatheredto complete the engine deck.34Vallejo’s Mud Splatter products were applied and blended to achieve the initial lighter dust tones.35By wet blending the acrylic dust tones a thin watery layered effectcan be achieved. Working in small areas at atime is a must due to the fast drying time.36Further weathering layers were added to the lower hull with AK Interactive’s Fresh Mudenamel wash was selectively placedand blended to create streaks of damp earth over the dusty dried layer.37The turret ring area was a variety of wet and dry effects to simulate oily leaks from the turret ring.38To create further contrast in areas a darker earth enamelwas applied and blended several layers were added and blended39Light Earth acrylic mud was applied to the roadwheels and blendedusing water, then Damp Effects and Oil Stains enamel washes were added.40The rear of the tank was given a light mistingof the acrylic lighter dust tones trying to avoid a build up of mud covering the details. Exhaust soot was achieved by applyingRubber Black with the airbrush.www.militarymodelcraftinternational.co.uk 4328323640
To finish the model the tracks were painted using LifeColor’srust acrylic set. A spongewas used to vary the threeshades of rust in the set and built up in thin layers. A dried mud acrylic mixture was then applied to both surfaces of the tracks and blended with water,removing excess mud from contact areas. Water markswere added using Fresh Mudenamel washes and blended with thinners. The contact areasof the track were polished usinga graphite pencil and rubber tipped artist’s tool before they were fitted to the tank.41Basic rust tones from LifeColor’s Rust set wereapplied with a fine sponge and wetblended using a brush and water.42With the tracks installed,enamel earth tones wereadded to simulate damp wet earth in the deepest areas of the tracks.43Dust and damp earth effectswere concentrated around the hatches and cupola. Oil stains were added more to the cupola range finder due to it being traversible.44The final effects wereadded to the shell impactmarks and French roundels of the turret to call it complete.44 Military Modelcraft InternationalCOLD WAR43444142
We take a look atthe history of theworld’s premieracrylic paint manufacturer formodellers and artists alike, in conversation with Alex Vallejo.MMI: Tell us a little aboutVallejo, how many peoplework there and the history of the company?.Alex: The Vallejo Company is a family-owned businesswhich was established in1965 in New Jersey, U.S.A. by Amadeo Vallejo. In those years the company specialized in the manufacture of FilmColor, the first water based acrylic colours for animated films (cartoons). In 1969 the company moved to Spainas many important cartoonstudios were increasingly based in Europe. The specialqualities and unique formula of Film Color soon becameknown, and the product was used by most of the important film studios on the Continent. The experience and knowledgeaccumulated in the elaboration of artist colours over these past fifty years is the most valued asset of the company. In 1972 Amadeo Vallejo developed Acrylic Artist Color, the first acrylic for fine arts manufactured in Spain, andone of the first acrylic colours for artists produced in Europe. In this period, Vallejo also introduced Liquid Watercolor for graphic design. Thegrowing popularity of water-based acrylic paints became of interest to airbrush artists, who,until then, had worked solelywith solvent-based products.With the help of these artists during the periods of trial and testing, Vallejo formulatedthe first acrylic colours for airbrushing in 1986. Over the following years, the company began developing a rangeof paints – Model Color – for hobbyists and model makers.The company occupies several industrial buildingsand employs 65 people,most of whom have been1Alex Vallejo.2The outside of the Vallejo headquarters in Barcelona.3And inside the Vallejo factory where the paint is manufactured.4Vallejo are probably best known fortheir Model Color acrylic paint series (seen here on the right) and Model Air paint designed to be airbrushed (on the left), but they are produce a range of otheracrylic-based products for modellers.www.militarymodelcraftinternational.co.uk 452331
working in the company for several decades. The technicaldepartment is the core of any paint manufacturingcompany, three chemists, who are specialized in acrylicwater-based colours, work on R&D and supervise all product quality, developmentand improvement details, aswell as the prevailing health and safety regulations.MMI: How safe are yourproducts for modellers? Alex: When we releasedModel Color in 1992 most of the paints used by modellerswere solvent-based so our task here was easy, we showed allmodellers that it was feasible to move from solvent--basedproducts to water-basedcolours. Furthermore, asspecified on our website, allour hobby products are tested by external laboratories . The‘conforms to ASTM’ statedon our labels guarantee that our products are safe for theirspecific use. We feel strongly about quality and safety and they are our top priority.MMI: How do you choose a subject to be released, what is the key to success withinsuch a competitive market?.Alex: Over the years we have always listened to ourcustomers and welcomed their ideas, their needs and suggestions. We keep aclose eye on the market to identify the requirementsof our customers and thegaps that can be covered by new Vallejo product releases and, specifically, we have a prize-winningmodeller in our team who is in constant touch with the trends of the market and the requirements of our customers as they ultimately guide usin new product decisions.MMI: What goes into releasinga new product ? How muchtime does it take from an idea to the customers doorstep?Alex: The aim is to develop a new project within a maximumof six months. However, itall depends on the nature of the project itself; for full new product releases, such as newcolour ranges, the amount of time needed is considerable and very different from that of creating a specific retail set of paints from existingranges. First, the idea is conceptualized, that is weconsider what paint or colour set is required, the basiccomposition of that set (how many paints), which historical period are we covering, which effect are we trying toachieve with the paints, and we check historical referencessuch as the Real Colour Chipbook or historical colourreferences from museumsand experts. We consider thefeasibility of the concept and cooperate with our technical department, briefing them on the project we have and,once they have matched the colours, we perform product testing regardingstability, viscosity, application,quality and longevity.MMI: As a manufacturer,how important for you is thefeedback of the modellers? Are you concerned about forums and social media?Alex:Feedback from modellers is very important; without it we wouldn’t be able to conceive new products, we wouldn’t beable to test new products, we wouldn’t have suggestions, ideas for improvement oncurrent products and, all in all,we wouldn’t be who we are.MMI: Every now and againsomething goes wrong. What is your customer service?Alex: Our customer service issecond to none, we requestthe relevant information anddo the necessary testing tounderstand if the issue has been due to faulty product or due to inappropriate usage.Once we have identified thecauses of the issue, we get back to the customer with either product replacementor advice on best use.MMI: What are your company’splans for the future?Alex: Vallejo has never stoppedgrowing and adding products to our catalogue. Currentlywe have announced newpartnerships and this year we presented new sets andthe Scenic Accessories rangefor diorama modellers, castin a new and revolutionary resin. Another growing area is publications, whichwill be a big focus for Vallejo in the near future.5Vallejo Scenics is a range of dioramaaccessories for modelmakers and hobbyists cast in a special lightweight resin. Again, the Vallejo paint range contains allyou need to finish these to perfection.6More recently the company has introduced a range of high-qualityaerosol-based acrylic primers. These are particularly useful for the ever-expanding wargaming sector of the hobby.7One recent innovation is Vallejo Metal Color, an acrylic-based paint that gives a perfect metallic finish, as seen here on this P-47 Thunderbolt.46 Military Modelcraft International567
KNOW YOUR CHURCHILLSAs one of the most recognisable British tanks of World War II,the Churchill was the last of four Infantry Tank designs to be adopted by the BritishArmy. It was ordered off the drawing board on 1 July 1940, and the first example was delivered for trials at theend of that year. After twentytraumatic months of working out numerous teethingproblems, the Churchill made its doomed combat debut atDieppe in August 1942. Rebuilt en masse by the Vauxhallproduction group, it went on to moments of glory on theTunisian, Italian and WesternEuropean battlefields in thelast two years of the war. Oncethrough its rebuild programme, the Churchill proved to be an effective, reasonably reliable(and forever under-gunned) escort to the infantry units of the 1st Army, 8th Army and 21st Army Group. Looking decidedlyanachronistic alongside almost any other tank it served alongside, the Churchill was well-liked by most crews that took it into combat. This was largely thanks to its armourand its ability to negotiatethe toughest terrain. The A22 Infantry Tank Mk.IV Churchill gun tank was built in eightdifferent marks. This article describes the basic features of the first six factory-built marks of Churchills. I haveomitted conversions like the Churchill Mk.IV NA 75, all special purpose variants like the AVRE based on the Mk.III and MK.IV, and, of course, the Mk.VII and Mk.VIII. I hope to treat these separately in future. Built by a network of engineering firms betterknown for automobile,locomotive or heavy machinery components, the early Churchill marks differed according to component availability at thetime of manufacture. Laterthey passed through rebuildprograms to render thembattleworthy, acquiring a rangeof standardised features like mudguards and top aspirating air louvres. Many individual tanks were subject to multipleupgrades and rebuilds in early 1944 which saw themup-gunned and up-armoured. As a result there is plentyof variety for the Churchillmodeller, and given the range of 1/35-scale options in plastic and resin, nearly all gun tank variations can be modelled easily. I enthusiastically direct any interested modellers and historians to read the excellentworks of David Fletcher, BryanPerrett, and B.T White. On the Internet I recommend the Armour in Focus site by ChrisShillito, which inspired my quest to better understand the Churchill marks. Better still, if you live nearby to a museumwith any mark of Churchill,go give one a looking over! www.militarymodelcraftinternational.co.uk 47M P Robinson presents the first part of a photo essay guide to the Infantry Tank Mk.IV.1The stillborn A20 was the base point for many of the elements in the A22Churchill’s design. Built by Harland andWolff of Belfast, only two prototypes were completed. Their contribution towinning the war was limited to testing out recovery vehicles and transportersand they do not seem to have been armed with anything larger than a Matildaturret and 2-pdr. The unsuccessful A20seemed to have more in common with the Heavy Tanks of the First World War thanwith contemporaries of the 1939-1940period. Its basic layout and track form wascarried forward to the smaller Churchill.
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S.C.C. No. 2 Brown(Vallejo 71.035Camouflage Pale Brown)S.C.C. No. 14 Blue Black(Vallejo 71.054Dark Grey Blue)S.C.C. No. 15Olive Drab(Vallejo 71.016 USAF Olive Drab)U.S. Olive Drab No. 9(Vallejo US Olive Drab 71.043)(left)A31 The 25th TankBrigade used the Churchill Mk.III and Mk.IV very successfully in Tunisia, where tanks of the 48th RTR actually knocked out thefirst Tiger to fall to British arms. The heavy coat of dustvirtually obscures the S.C.C. No. 2.(Crown Copyright)3Churchill Mk.IV, 12th Royal Tank Regiment, 21st Tank Brigade,Battle of the Gothic Line (Operation Olive), September 1944.Overall S.C.C. No. 15 Olive Drab or U.S. Olive Drab No. 9. Churchills were used by the 25th Tank Brigade in mixed regiments with Sherman I and Sherman IIs (because the high explosive shell was not yet available for the 6-pdr) in the battle of the Hitler Line in May 1944. The heavy losses sustained by the brigade resulted in very careful analysis of tactics which were shared with the newly-arrived 21st Tank Brigade before the Battle of the Gothic Line. Part of the deception plan for Operation Olive included repainting the unit serials for 21st Tank Brigade to match those of the 1st Canadian Armoured Brigade, which resulted in very sparse markings on some replacement tanks sent up during the battle. Churchills could carry their WD# variously on the turret sides, the hull sides or occasionally on the lower hull front (and sometimes in multiple places). After September 1944 the 21st Tank Brigade replaced all of its Shermans with Churchills, the 25th Tank Brigade having done so that August.2Churchill Mk. IV, ‘Adamant’, 11th CanadianArmy Tank Regiment, Sussex, England,1942. Overall S.C.C. No. 2 Brown. The 11thCanadian Army Tank Regiment (11CTR),otherwise known as the Ontario Regiment (Tank). The Ontario Regimentoperated Churchills throughout 1942 alongside the Three Rivers Regiment and the Calgary Regiment (who gave the type its baptism of fire at Dieppe) in the 1st Canadian Army Tank Brigade. The very large squadron markings were typicalfor this unit, which was re-equipped with Rams in early 1943.150 Military Modelcraft InternationalARMOUR IN PROFILE...
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