Military Modelcraft International 2016-10

October 2016 · Volume 20 · Number 11
UK price: £4.50
www.guidelinepublications.co.uk
Military & Civil Aviation – Military Weapons & Equipment – Naval Vessels
Panzerwrecks 20
Ostfront 3 L Archer WWP Leopard 1 in
What was the ‘circle of detail part one (G47)
death’? Whose Panther Abrams Squad The British Battle Tanks New Vanguard BT Scale Model The Weathering Tanker Techniques F Koran Colour photo
was found at a railway Modern Modelling World War I to 1939 Fast Tank The Red Handbook Figure Special How to Paint Magazine (4) album containing pho-
station? Can a 37mm Magazine 16 D Fletcher This com- Army's Cavalry Modelling 17 1:72 Military Damage Inc tos of the Leopard
Sturmovik cannon de- This issue: Comman- prehensive volume S Zaloga The story of S Demiras Looks at Vehicles Al Clark K Pulinckx This issue: 1A3/4 of the DPM
stroy a Panther? Which der’s Display Unit reg- traces the design and the design and devel- painting pieces using An essential painting model damage and Munster. Contains
new tank round was ular kit review page; development of the fa- opment and combat acrylics, oils or enam- and weathering guide features include Lost introduction and photo
tested by the Russians Remote Thermal Sight; mous British invention history of the BT Fast els, sculpting, conver- for modellers inter- in Laos - Huey down in sections covering
in 1945? 151 rare Husky Mk.III; ASU-85 during WWI and the tank. Black and white sions, scenery and ested in 1:72 military the Jungle; KO. KV; T- turret, interior, hull,
B&W photos. and much more. 1920s and 30s. photos, colour profiles. historical texts. vehicles. Colour photos. 72B1 and much more. plus much more.
SB 96pp £16.99 SB 64pp £9.99 HB 236pp £25.00 SB 48pp £10.99 SB 50pp £14.99 SB 120pp £15.99 SB 90pp £8.99 SB 96pp £23.99
Mobility Conquers Everything Worked HMMWV Hummer Wehrmacht 46 First Tank Crews The Sturmartillerie Kagero Super Operation Market
The Story of 61 Like Clockwork The HMMWV (Hummer) L'arsenal du Reich Lives of the Spearhead for the Drawings in 3D Garden Paratroopers
Mechanised Mechanization of in IDF Service Volume 1 Heer & Tankmen Who Infantry T Anderson 16047 The Japanese Uniforms, Equipment
Battalion Group British Regular and M Mass Colour photo Panzerwaffe L Tirone Fought at the Battle Development and op- Battleship Musashi and Personal Items
1978-2005 Household Cavalry album containing an FRENCH TEXT. Lavishly of Flers Courcelette eration history of the C Cestra Contains a of the 1st Polish
This book is the warts- 1918-1942 R Salmon extensive collection of illustrated, this book 15 September 1916 Sturmartillerie units brief introduction cov- Independent
and-all story of the Sets out in detail how unpublished photos of highlights the dozens S Pope Drawing on that swept through ering Design and His- Parachute Brigade
birth, career and death and why the mechani- the Hummer in IDFS. of armaments, equip- official records and France and then into tory and general Volume 1 P Witkowski
of the South African sation of the British Photos include many ment and material de- more, this book reveals Russia early in WWII. It characteristics of the History of the Polish
Defence Force's 61 Cavalry took place and recent in action and veloped for Heer, the story of the soldiers also describes the Musashi followed by a 1st Independent Para-
Mechanised Battalion its wider consequences training roles in addi- Luftwaffe, Kriegsma- who took the first technical development plethora of captioned chute Brigade in WWII.
Group (1979-2005). for the British Army and tion to a plethora of rine and the Waffen-SS tanks into action in the and evolution of the 3D graphics and an A2 Covers its organisation,
350 photos and maps. the country's defence. walkaround photos. plus much more. Somme in 1916. vehicles employed. pull out of line drawings. uniforms and equip-
HB 1044pp £59.95 HB 316pp £29.95 SB 82pp £24.99 SB 160pp £46.00 HB 400pp £29.95 HB 286pp £30.00 SB 86pp £24.99 ment in particular dur-
ing their support of the
British airborne assault
on Arnhem in Septem-
ber 1944. Full colour.
SB 144pp £25.00
Army Wheels in
Detail (15) British
Anti-Tank Guns in
Modelships CIABG during World Tankograd Militar Tankograd British Tankograd Soviet Tankograd Military Tankograd Military
Monographic Series War II. Ordnance Fahrzeug 4/2016 Special 9025 MAN Special 2011 T 34 Special 5061 PUMA Special 5062 PUMA
Modelling Full Quick-Firing 2 -pdr, GERMAN TEXT ONLY. Support Vehicles The NVA The Soviet T-34 The New Armoured The New Armoured Tankograd In Detail
Ahead 2 New 6-pdr, 17-pdr P Brojo Schutzenpanzer LYNX most modern Trucks Tank and its Variants infantry Fighting infantry Fighting Fast Track 18
Orleans Class M Gils History and use of - Neue Wege f¸r den of the British Army in Service with the Vehicle of the Vehicle of the Bushmaster G Arthur
Looks at building, British anti-tank guns. MARDER; Engineer C Schulze Compre- East German Army Bundeswehr - Part 1 Bundeswehr - Part 2 In action photographs
painting, dioramas, Contains archive Bradley M2A2 ODS-E; hensive publication on (NVA) F Koch R Zwilling History, R Zwilling Second and a detailed walka-
photo etch techniques B&W/colour walka- Kleine BOXER Mod- the MAN trucks in Comprehensively technology and train- volume which offers round of this Australian
and features the 1:700 round photos as well ernisierung plus much British military service. describes the various ing of the Puma. an over the shoulder of Protected Mobility Ve-
USS San Francisco 1944. as techincal drawings. more. Colour photos. Colour photos. batches of the T 34. 163 colour photos. mechanics and crew. hicle. 84 colour photos
SB 76pp £16.99 SB 40pp £13.99 SB 56pp £9.99 SB 64pp £13.99 SB 64pp £13.99 SB 64pp £13.99 SB 64pp £13.99 SB 40pp £10.99
TNT Trucks & Tanks Steel Masters 138 Steel Masters 139 The Weathering Histoire de Guerre Ligne De Front Hors Naval Archives Vol.2 Batailles & Blindes
Hors Serie 23 Otan Mai 2016 Juillet-Aout 2016 Magazine 16 Interiors Blindes et Materiel Series 28 Les (92002) 74 Combattre dans
vs Pava Les Chars de FRENCH TEXT. This FRENCH TEXT. Saumur This issue is dedicated 117 Juil-Sep 2016 Commandos du Reich Includes The Teget- un Panther A bord
la Guerre Froide issue contains France 2016, tous les medailles; to kinds of interiors FRENCH TEXT. 1936 La FRENCH TEXT. Lavishly thoffs-Battleships of du Fauve avec les
FRENCH TEXT. Lavishly 1940 AMD 35; AMX Autopskit VBL Hobby that could be found in Guerre Civile en France illustrated. This edition the Forgotten Navy; An Panzerschutzen
illustrated, this special 13/75 Tamiya 1:35; Boss; Renault EG 1:35; tanks, airplanes, sub- Contre mesures et covers Schutztruppen unrewarding year in FRENCH TEXT. Combat-
looks at tanks of the Opel Admiral 1:35 plus Whippet Mk.A 1:35 marines and even an forces de l’ordre plus & sturmtruppen plus the Mare Nostrum plus tre dans un Panther;
Cold War. much more. plus much more. AT-ST from Star Wars. much more. much more. much more. Centurion au combat.
SB 114pp £14.90 SB 66pp £7.50 SB 66pp £7.50 SB 70pp £8.99 SB 96pp £12.50 SB 98pp £11.50 SB 84pp £14.99 SB 82pp £6.90
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Features...
28 1/35 Radio Russia
Chairman Mark Chisholm tackles Trumpeter’s R-145BM.
Régis Auckland
Email: 35 - Russia Commemorates Victory Day
regisauckland@btinternet.com James Kinnear takes a look at some of the latest Russian armour.
Editor
David Grummitt 48 1/35 ‘Kapitán Otakar Jaroš’
20 Warwick Road, Whitstable Marian Bunc tackles Tamiya’s SU-85.
CT5 1HX United Kingdom
Email: davidgrummitt942@hotmail.com 54 1/35 Meals on Wheels
Vladimir Yashin brings a gastronomic delight of sorts.
Assistant Editor
Moustafa Assad
62 1/35 Operation Daguet: Kuwait , 1991
Email: masss11@hotmail.com
José Luis López Ruiz builds an AMX-30B2 from the First Gulf War.
Group Marketing and
PR Director
Tom Foxon 35
E-mail: tom@regallitho.co.uk
Mob: +44 (0) 7540 153368
Design
Lincoln Rodrigues
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4 Military Modelcraft International

Contents
Regulars...
Military Modelcraft International
is published monthly by Guideline
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06 The Forum way of trade in excess of the maximum
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08 News From AMPS publisher. All material and artwork
Chris Lloyd-Staples tells us all about originated by Guideline Publications Ltd.,
photographs, drawings and plans used in
the benefits of AMPS membership. the magazine become the publisher’s
copyright under copyright law. The
company reserves the right to suspend or
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www.militarymodelcraftinternational.co.uk 5
T
his month’s Armour in Focus
feature, looking at the Victory Day
Parade in Moscow earlier this year,
led me to reflect on the historical context
of our hobby. It seemed slightly ironic, as
we stand on the verge of another Cold War
between Russia and the West, that a
magazine like this should run a feature on
contemporary Russian AFVs. Imagine a similar thing happening
forty years ago, at the height of the Cold War, when
images of new Russian armour were, at best, grainy
photographs that some dissident had risked his or
her life to smuggle out of the Soviet Union! The fact
that Russia’s T-14 Armata features in all its glory (and
from every angle) in the pages of this (a modelling)
magazine and we are already discussing the merits of
a 1/35-scale kit of the vehicle says a lot about the
nature of information in the twenty-first century.
Couple this with the numerous videos available online
of the conflicts in Syria, Iraq, Ukraine and elsewhere
and we have a situation where modellers are
overloaded with
information and inspiration
for future projects.
Our main feature this

month, as I said, is our Armour
in Focus article, looking at the
AFVs employed by the army of
the Russian Federation and, in
particular, the new T-14 Armata
MBT. Russian armour is the
theme once again of Mark
Chisholm’s latest article: a build
of Trumpeter’s BTR-60PU. It’s
Russian armour of a different era for Marian Bunc who
returns with an article based upon Tamiya’s venerable
SU-85 and a good dose of History. It’s also a welcome
return to the pages of this magazine for Vladimir Yashin
who presents an interesting project based around IBG
Models’ Field Kitchen and ICM’s Opel Blitz. Then it’s back to
the modern era with José Luis Lopez Ruiz who tackles an
unusual subject in Gaso.Line’s Quartescale Gulf War AMX-
30B2. As well as these, we have our usual selection of
in-depth reviews (including Meng Models’ Flakpanzer
Gepard), news and a show report. Until next month, happy
modelling.
David Grummitt Editor

Chris Lloyd-Staples tells us all about the benefits of AMPS membership.
F
or many AMPS members, getting to famous modellers ‘in the flesh’. The AMPS
shows can be difficult because of website is excellent as a chatroom, but for
distances and transport issues. For finding out details of military history or
these members, it can be hard to benefit queries about vehicles, there are now
from the many useful sites. Everyone will have their
camaraderie of particular
meeting up with favourite –
friends or actually for me
seeing personally I
use ‘Missing
Links’
(www.missing-
lynx.com) , but
there are
countless
other websites
with good local meetings? First and foremost is the
information. magazine Boresight, which is published six
What does times per year.
AMPS offer? As with websites, each magazine has a
different emphasis and flavour. For
The front covers of some recent example, while MMI contains a wealth of
issues of Boresight magazine. Loaded
information about current releases,
Magazine
Boresight does not, and concentrates on
So what can news about AMPS, plus a mix of articles
AMPS offer to about modelling techniques, covering how
model-makers models are assembled, detailed and
who cannot get painted, with additional articles about the
to regional historical side of military vehicles. The
shows, and magazine also has listings from many
maybe cannot retailers, offering substantial discounts (for
even attend example 25%!) to AMPS members. The
articles in the magazine are extremely
varied, and the
current editor –
Eric Choy – has
maintained a very
professional
appearance to the
publication. The
modelling articles
cover a range of
subjects intended
to offer something
for novices and
also for experts.
The latest issue
includes a model
by Nushi Nikitov,
wife of Mitko, a
Bulgarian AMPS
member, describing
the MiniArt
Pz.Kpfw.III ausf.D,
and showing that
military modelling is
not an entirely male
preserve!
This issue of the
magazine also
Boresight contains full modelling The content is provided by members and includes a description
articles, as well as news and reviews. contains features unique to this publication.

Of course, in
addition to
reviewing kits, there
is full coverage of
books, tools and
other paraphernalia
linked to the hobby.
A typical review might show how details can be added to replace

those missing in the kit, and in some cases this can include information
about what needs doing for a more significant improvement, as with
this detailing of the hatch of Dragon’s Magach. From the MAFVA
Nationals
painted kit can look like.

A Vickers Light Tank in The second particular value with the
Chinese service, again built work of the Review Crew – currently led by
and painted for review in Jim Wechsler – is that the reviews are
Boresight. honest evaluations by experienced and
expert modellers. Some of these guys
(such as Chuck Aleshire) have written
literally hundreds of reviews for AMPS, and
my own mere eighty seems lightweight!
With the current pause in the work of Terry
Ashley’s outstanding PMMS website, the
AMPS reviews are the leaders in this type of
critical review of new releases. The AMPS
reviews are definitely worth following, and
are an important part of what the society is
all about. Although some services are
of a State Museum in Leningrad, (St. AMPS has a team of expert

Petersburg), an article covering the Takom reviewers who go to great
AMX-13, and a piece looking at simple lengths to provide detailed
diorama techniques. The last article in the and honest reviews of new
issue is rather unusual, looking into the releases. What makes these
history of MP Models and their Authen-I-Kit reviews particularly
range on conversion kits. This small range significant is first that the
was released in the late 1980s, and set an model is usually fully made
incredibly high standard for accuracy. Still and painted, rather than
occasionally to be seen ‘under the table’ at simply looked at in the box.
model shows, they are worth snapping up! In some cases, a review will
However, most Boresight issues cover initially be just a ‘First Look’,
historical information, backed up with pending a full treatment.
photos. The previous three issues have Any assembly issues are
picked up, and areas of
dealt with the history and development of
inaccuracy are noted and
the IS-4M, and there has been walkaround
often corrected. This can
photo coverage of the
generally make the
Maschinengewehrwagen 36 (If.5) and the
reviews more useful than
Burma Jeep. Boresight is able to explore
other brief descriptions,
these unusual topics that would perhaps
as can be found in some
not be suitable for commercial magazines, other places. However,
and thus can provide a more specialised the review will show the
content. reader what comes in the kit, alongside any
limited to AMPS members, the
necessary changes, so that a purchaser can
reviews can be accessed on the website by
The Expert Review Crew see what they are getting. This additional
anyone. Details of AMPS membership and
information makes the reviews quite
The excellent AMPS website (currently in associated benefits can be found on the
unique in their way and invaluable for a
the process of being further improved) has website (www.amps-armor.org), and
reader. The finished model is shown, so
many useful features, but amongst the joining the society takes just a few mouse-
that it is clear what the completed and
most valuable is the listing of reviews. clicks!
An in-depth look at some of the latest releases
AMMO
AMMO Mig
Mig Jimenez
Jimenez David
David Grummitt
Grummitt
A couple of topical paint sets from the famous 4BO Green, shown on a T-34/76), (shown on an Abrams and an MRAP
guys at AMMO Mig Jimenez have arrived Dark Green (the Cold War colour shown vehicle), US Olive Drab Post (the colour
this month. 1935-2016 Mythical on a BMP-2), and, bringing up to date, used in Korea, Vietnam and the early
Russian Greens (ref A.MIG 7160) covers Protective NC1200 (shown on the newest Cold War), NATO Green, NATO Brown and
the main colours used by the Red Army Russian MBT, the T-14 Armata). Matt Black, as well as US APC Interior
and Russian army form the 1930s, From the other side, so to speak, we have Green (as shown on the interior of a
through the Cold War today. The six Modern U.S. Army 1950/2016 (ref. M113). Again, six 17ml bottles, complete
greens, in the standard 17ml bottle, A.MIG 7159).This contains the base, with stirring ball to aid paint mixinf, are
included are: Alkidno Uretanovoya, the camouflage and interior colours used on included. Our thanks to the guys at
colour used on early Soviet AFVs post-War US AFVs. We have the sand- AMMO for the review samples
(illustrated by a T-28), Protective Green colour used on modern US vehicles (www.migjimenez.com).
(shown on a BT-7), Russian Green (the
Italeri 1/35 David Grummitt
Italeri’s venerable M113 (first released in Lightning’, 1/5th Infantry Rgt. ‘Bobcats’, B Division, 1/10th Cavalry, Vietnam. Still a
the 1980s, ref. 276) gets another lease of Company, Vietnam; 25th Infantry Division good kit and recommended. Italeri kits
life in the form of M113 ACAV (ref. ‘Tropic Lightning’, 1/5th Infantry Rgt. are available from all good model shops.
6533). This kit contains three sprues from ‘Bobcats’, B Company, Vietnam; and 4th
the original release, and two new ones. Infantry
The original release allowed you to
build a pretty complete M113,
everything except the engine in
fact, and the additional sprues
contains personal weaponry, .05cal
Browning firing station and two
M60 firing stations fitted to the
Vietnam-ear A(rmored) C(avalry)
A(ssault) V(ehicle) version. There is
also some frontal applique armour
fitted to three of the four decal
options. The original spries are
beginning to show their age to be
honest, with some heavy
attachment points and some
clunky details (to the headlights
and the jerrycans, for example), but
the new parts are crisply and
cleanly moulded. Colourful decals
are provided for four Vietnam War
options: 25th Infantry Division,
22nd Infantry Regiment ‘Triple
Deuce’, A Company, Tet Offensive;
25th Infantry Division ‘Tropic

Revell 1/35 David Grummitt
Another re-boxing from

Revell, this time Anzac
Infantry (1915) (ref.
02618). This is actually the
ICM set (ref. 35685),
released last year, reboxed.
The sturdy box is adorned
with some attractive box
art and don’t let the toy-
like renditions of the
figures on the instructions
put you off – these are
actually quite nice! The kit
contains two sand-
coloured sprues, one
containing the equipment equipment
and weapons and the other sprue is quite
the figures themselves. The extensive, giving a choice of
latter contains four figures bush hats, pith helmets and field
– one running and two standing caps, as well as SMLE rifles, a Lewis gun,
with rifles and a fourth looking through pioneer tools and various pouches and
a trench periscope – that are built up in a water bottles. The poses of the figures
conventional fashion (two legs, two are a little static, but, as with all sets of
arms, torso and head). The guy with the this kind, the real challenge is with the
periscope has separate hands to allow painting. With some skill and care these
you to position these correctly. The look very good. Revell kits are avialable
moulding and scuplting is very nice, with from all good model shops, see
some good facial features. The www.revell.de/uk for further details.
Mid Devon Models 1/76 Paul Bennett
A few weeks ago I had the good fortune post for military
to meet Paul Metcalfe. For those who are flights travelling to
not familiar with the name, Paul is at the and from the Far
helm of Tiverton-based Mid Devon East). The Stalwart
Models. No doubt many will recall the RRU was the result,
extensive range of 1/76-scale white- and two such
metal kits produced by Barry Wright at vehicles were
BW Models. Following Barry’s retirement, produced. These
Paul bought the masters, moulds and were used
production rights of several items; exclusively at RAF
specifically the RAF Fire & Rescue Gan, and were
vehicles. In addition to the extensive withdrawn from
range of vehicles, Paul’s catalogue service in 1972.
includes a variety of figures (again cast in The kits are
white-metal). Sculpted by the late Pete presented as
Morton, these are from the Dartmoor a series of
Military Models range, and are currently fairly robust
available from Mid Devon Models by kind castings,
permission of John Perry. The list covers finely
1/32-scale RAF, Luftwaffe and USAAF detailed, and
crew; 1/48-scale RAF and Luftwaffe crew; very simple to
and 1/48-scale British, German and US assemble. Due
Military figures. to the
Returning to the RAF Fire Service limitations of
vehicles, the range focuses almost the medium,
exclusively on post-war subjects certain areas
including the ‘Land Rover Series 1 are somewhat
Airfield Crash Rescue Tender’ (ref. simplified,
MDM016), and the ‘Alvis Stalwart Mk.2 though well documented; there are
Reef Rescue Unit (RAF Gan)’ (ref. refinement is very few images of the Land Rover ACRT,
MDM023). The Land Rover Series 1 was easily achieved with the help of reference and I was only able to find three of the
used by all branches of the Armed Forces. images and scratch-built components. Stalwart RRU.
Appearing around 1955, the 107’ That said, neither vehicle is particularly However, cross-
wheelbase
version was
quickly utilised
by the RAF as the
basis for an
immediate
response Airfield
Crash Rescue
Tender. It was not
designed to fight
aircraft fires by
itself, but was
intended to be
the ‘first on scene’ vehicle pending the
arrival of larger appliances. It remained in
service until the mid-60s. The FV622 Alvis
Stalwart Mk.2 was introduced into British
Army service in 1966 and utilised many
components of the already successful
Saracen and Saladin armoured
vehicles. In the late-60s, the RAF
required a fully amphibious vehicle
that could provide a rapid response
fire/rescue cover for the island of Gan
(part of the Maldives, and a staging

Mid Devon Models 1/76 Paul Bennett
referencing these with the kits’ modellers will be discouraged from consider suitable settings to place the
information sheets provided me with a tackling such kits, bemoaning the lack of vehicles in context. Beginning with the
reasonably accurate idea of details and finer details; on the contrary, there is Land Rover, the obvious choice would
colour schemes for the respective nothing more satisfying than using have been an airfield (circa 1960).
vehicles. Following the usual format, plastic card, lengths of wire, and items However, just to be different, I opted for a
each kit is accompanied by a four-page from the spares box to add the necessary modern-day scenario … a Classic
manual, which includes background refinements to a basic kit. And here are Vehicles Show; this restored example is
notes on the vehicle, a parts inventory, a two perfect examples, where ‘old school’ certainly attracting lots of attention from
step-by-step assembly sequence, and (in modelling techniques can really pay Land Rover enthusiasts! As for the
the case of the Stalwart) colours for the dividends. Having prepared the various Stalwart, what better way of displaying
various items of equipment. components, it was simply a case of this than to put it through its paces on a
Back to the kits … as shown in the carrying out the minor improvements, rescue mission into the lagoon. The ‘Land
accompanying parts-layout images, each assembling, and applying the paint. Of Rover Series 1 ACRT’ is priced at £14.00,
course, the colour schemes for these and the ‘Alvis Stalwart Mk.2 RRU’ £25.00.
is comprised of a lower body, separate
vehicles are quite specific, so it is worth For further details on these and other
parts for the cab and superstructure,
checking out the available references items in the Mid Devon Models range,
wheels and suspension units, and a full
along with the kit instructions. Typical of please visit their Facebook page or e-mail
complement of onboard fittings and
white-metal kits, no markings are to advisorp@btinternet.com.
rescue apparatus. While these are
included, though these were easily Alternatively, you can contact Paul at
generally well cast, some require careful
attention with a sharp blade and a light sourced from my collection of dry- Mid Devon Models, 1 The Orchard, Ham
sanding to remove prominent seam lines transfer sheets and spare decals. Place, Tiverton, Devon
and areas of flash. I imagine some With the models complete, time to EX16 6PW. Tel: 07791075238
Sparmax David Grummitt
An airbrush and compressor are now an mains) and is compatible with the
essential (and affordable) piece of kit for Sparmax battery system for travel
most modellers and hobbyists. I have (touching a paint job before a big model
been using an Iwata Sprintjet for a show perhaps?). Its ¼” adaptor is suitable
decade or so now, with generally good for the leading brands of airbrush,
results. I was pleased, however, recently Sparmax (naturally), Iwata, Paasche and
to receive a new Sparmax Arism Viz Badger.
Compressore (ref. C-AR-VIZ) from our There are two features in particular which
friends at the Airbrush Company and I thought made this a superb product
immediately opened the box and put it that really enhanced my airbrushing
to work. The compressor, which is small experience. The ‘Smart-Stop’ feature is a
and compact measuring really clever idea: basically, the airbrush
200mmx120mmx180mm and weighing holder itself acts as a switch, cutting the
just 2.5kgs, runs on a air supply everytime the airbrush is experience.
DC motor (with placed at rest and immediately coming
suitable adaptor Some technical details: working pressure
back on when the airbrush is picked up. I
to run it from the from 0psi to 50psi (3.4 bar); 2m braided
found this really useful, no
hose included; air flow of 16-18 lpm
longer having to bend
(0.57-0.64 cfm) at open flow; 1/8 BSP
over to switch off the
outlet on compressor; AC adaptor; noise
compressor everytime I
level 45±dB; duty cycle 40 minutes
had finished spraying. As
continous use. Overall, I thought this was
well as this feature, the
an excellent compressor and highly
‘Smart Stop’ acts to
recommended at a retail price of £180
regulate the air pressure:
(although I am told this is likely to change
like an air tank it ensures
when a new shipment arrives because of
the air pressure remains
unfavourable exchange rates). The
constant everytime you
Sparmax range is available from the
pick up the brush. Even
Airbrush Company (www.airbrushes.com,
better than that though
tel: 01903
was the ‘Silver Bullet Plus’.
Users of the Sparmax
and Iwata range will be
familiar with the concept of
the ‘Silver Bullet’. Basically it is a
moisture filter with drain valve that
screws to the bottom of the
airbrush. The real innocation with
the ‘Silver Bullet Plus’ is the addition
of a pressure adjuster on the
device itself. Traditionally
these pressure
adjusters have
been on the
dial itself,
usually located
near the
compressor
than the
airbrush. In this
configuration it
is simplicity
itself to adjust
the pressure
while spraying
(the dial is still on the
compressor). Personally,
again, I found this feature really
enhanced my airbrushing

A round up of the latest releases
Airfix AGV Models AGV Models AGV Models

BWWII USAAF Bomber Syrian Army Laser Range Finder T-34 Finnish 231.1 T-72 Ural Turret
Re-Supply Set (for Tamiya kit)
Scale: 1/72 Scale: 1/35 Scale: 1/35 Scale: 1/35
Ref: A06304 Ref: 35047 Ref: 35050 Ref: 35051
SRP: £TBA SRP: £TBA SRP: £TBA SRP: £TBA
See www.airfix.com See www.agvmodels.com See www.agvmodels.com See www.agvmodels.com
Blue Square Models Blue Square Models Blue Square Models Blue Square Models
Sturmpanzer E-60 ‘Wildkatze’ Flammpanzer E-60 12.8cm Rheinmetall-Borsig Krupp Waffentrager 150mm
Waffentrager 38D sFH18/Panther
Ref: BS7201 Ref: BS7202 Ref: BS7203 Ref: BS7204
See www.bsmodels.pl.tl See www.bsmodels.pl.tl See www.bsmodels.pl.tl See www.bsmodels.pl.tl
Blue Square Models Blue Square Models Brengun Model Accessories Brengun Model Accessories
Rheinmetall Waffentrager Rheinmetall 12.8cm Waffentrager PE/Resin Detail Set for Bachem BA- PE Detail Set for Bundeswehr
K/43/Panther ‘Scorpion’ K/43/Panther 349 Natter(for Brengun kit) Vehicles(for Revell kits)
Ref: BS7205 Ref: BS7201 Ref: BRL144123 Ref: BRL144124
SRP: £TBA SRP: £TBA SRP: €6.59 SRP: €10.19
See www.bsmodels.pl.tl See www.bsmodels.pl.tl See www.brengun.cz See www.brengun.cz
Brengun Model Accessories Bronco Models Combrig Models D-Day Miniature Studio
Launch Tower for Bachem BA-349 USMC AAVTP7A1 (incl. 4 kits) Sovetsky Soyuz Battleship Pr.23 LRDG Officer, North Africa 1940-43
Natter(for Brengun kit)
Ref: BRS144031 Ref: NB5036 Ref: 70356 Ref: 35056
SRP: €28.80 SRP: £3.99 SRP: £TBA SRP: €13.00
See www.brengun.cz See www.cn-bronco.com See www.combrig-models.com See www.ddayminiaturestudio.com

D-Day Miniature Studio D-Day Miniature Studio D-Day Miniature Studio D-Day Miniature Studio
Afrika Korps POW, North Africa LRDG Officer & Afrika Korps POW, LRDG Soldier, North Africa 1940-43 LRDG Soldier with Lewis Gun, North
1941-43 North Africa 1941-43 Africa 1940-43
Ref: 35057 Ref: 35058 Ref: 35059 Ref: 35060
SRP: €13.00 SRP: €25.00 SRP: €13.00 SRP: €13.00
See www.ddayminiaturestudio.com See www.ddayminiaturestudio.com See www.ddayminiaturestudio.com See www.ddayminiaturestudio.com
D-Day Miniature Studio D-Day Miniature Studio D-Day Miniature Studio D-Day Miniature Studio
LRDG Soldiers, North Africa WWI German Infantryman, Winter WWI German Guard, Winter WWI German Guards, Winter
1940-43 1914-18 1914-18 1914-18
Ref: 35061 Ref: 35062 Ref: 35063 Ref: 35064
SRP: €25.00 SRP: €13.00 SRP: €13.00 SRP: €25.00
See www.ddayminiaturestudio.com See www.ddayminiaturestudio.com See www.ddayminiaturestudio.com See www.ddayminiaturestudio.com
D-Day Miniature Studio D-Day Miniature Studio D-Day Miniature Studio Dragon
Hitlerjugend Boy 1, Germany 1945 Hitlerjugend Boy 2, Germany 1945 ‘The Last Order’ vol.3 – HJ Boys, MIM-104B Patriot (PAC-1)
Germany 1945 w/M983 HEMTT
Ref: 35065 Ref: 35066 Ref: 35067 Ref: 3558
SRP: €13.00 SRP: €13.00 SRP: €25.00 SRP: £99.89
See www.ddayminiaturestudio.com See www.ddayminiaturestudio.com See www.ddayminiaturestudio.com See www.dragon-models.com
Dragon Dragon Italeri Italeri

MIM-104F Patriot (PAC-3) M901 IDF Magach 3 Italian Battleship RN Roma M10 Tank Destroyer
Launching Station
Ref: 3563 Ref: 3567 Ref: 05821 Ref: 15758
SRP: £84.99 SRP: £44.99 SRP: £TBA SRP: £TBA
See www.dragon-models.com See www.dragon-models.com See www.italeri.com See www.italeri.com
Italeri Italeri Italeri Italeri

Pz.Kpfw.VI Tiger Pz.Kpfw.V Panther M4 Sherman Cromwell

Ref: 56501 Ref: 56502 Ref: 56503 Ref: 56504
See www.italeri.com See www.italeri.com See www.italeri.com See www.italeri.com
Meng Model Meng Model Meng Model Meng Model

US Navy Aircraft Carrier USS US Navy Aircraft Carrimn er USS Russian V-84 Tank Engine for T-72 Single-Pin Tracks for T-72 & T-90
Lexington (CV-2) Lexington (CV-2) (Cement-Free Workable Tracks)
Ref: PS-001 Ref: PS-002 Ref: SPS-028 Ref: SPS-029
SRP: £39.99 SRP: £39.99 SRP: £17.99 SRP: £17.99
See www.meng-model.com See www.meng-model.com See www.meng-model.com See www.meng-model.com
Meng Model Milicast Milicast Milicast

Double-Pin Tracks for T-72 & T-90 Cromwell Mk.VII/VIII M14 Halftrack – Personnel Centurion Mk.III (20pdr.)
(Cement-Free Workable Tracks) Carrier/Prime Mover – Korean War
Ref: SPS-030 Ref: BB216 Ref: UK307 Ref: UK312
SRP: £17.99 SRP: £TBA SRP: £TBA SRP: £TBA
See www.meng-model.com See www.milicast.com See www.milicast.com See www.milicast.com
Milicast MiniArt Model-Miniature Model-Miniature

Centurion ARV Mk.I SU-85 mod.1943 (early production) VAB Mortier (pre-assembled and AMX-10 RC (pre-assembled and
w/Crew painted model) painted model)
Ref: UK313 Ref: 35178 Ref: RK201 Ref: RK202
See www.milicast.com See www.miniart-models.com See www.model-miniature.com See www.model-miniature.com

Panda Hobby Panda Hobby SKP Model Soga Miniatures

9K330 TOR Air Defence System T-15 Armata – Object 149 Wheels for Humvee (x5) German Antiaircraft Gunner

Ref: PH-35008 Ref: PH-35017 Ref: SKP 264 Ref: 3557
See www.1999.co.jp See www.1999.co.jp See www.skpmodel.eu See www.soga-miniatures.ru.com
Soga Miniatures Soga Miniatures Soga Miniatures Soga Miniatures

German Antiaircraft Feldwebel German Antiaircraft Gunner Driver for Sd.Kfz. 10/4 German Antiaircraft Gunner with
Artillery Rangefinder
Ref: 3558 Ref: 3559 Ref: 3560 Ref: 3561
See www.soga-miniatures.ru.com See www.soga-miniatures.ru.com See www.soga-miniatures.ru.com See www.soga-miniatures.ru.com
Trumpeter
Russian 3S51M SPU of 4K51 Valkyrie Miniatures
Soga Miniatures Soga Miniatures ‘Rubezh’ Coastal Missile System Modern US Army Tank Crew
German Feldwebel German Panzergrenadier Scale: 1/35 (Europe, 1970-era)
Panzergrenadier Ref: 01035
Scale: 1/35 Scale: 1/35 SRP: £TBA Scale: 1/35
Ref: 3562 Ref: 3563 Ref: VM35017
See www.trumpeter-china.com
SRP: £TBA SRP: £TBA SRP: £TBA
Distributed in the UK by Pocketbond
See www.soga-miniatures.ru.com See www.soga-miniatures.ru.com (www.pocketbond.co.uk) See www.valkyrie.co.kr
Valkyrie Miniatures
IDF Tank Crew in Yom Kippur War, W^D Models W^D Models Zvezda
1973 Dennis Lorry with Soft Cab Top Dennis Lorry with Hard Cab Top British Medical Personnel
(early version) (late version) 1939-1942
Ref: VM35018 Ref: WDMT01 Ref: WDMT13 Ref: 6228
SRP: £TBA SRP: £22.00 SRP: £22.00 SRP: £2.99
See www.valkyrie.co.kr See www.wdmodels.com See www.wdmodels.com See www.zvezda.org.ua

SHOWTIME
9TH PLASTICBATTLE ARMOUR MODELLING SHOW
Özgür Güner reports from Turkey’s premier modelling show.
T
he 9th annual PlasticBattle Armor served as a judge and shared his display. There were an M-48 Patton and
Modeling Show, organized by knowledge and experience to improve this two Willys Jeeps.
Plasticbattle, the Turkish Modelers show, as the organisers look to make the With 215 competition and 70 display
Forum, was held at the FNSS facilities in show truly international next year. WOT, models, the quantity and standard of the
Golbasi-Ankara,Turkey on 3-4 September. World of Tanks, also had a stand for online models on show was higher than last year.
The show was sponsored again by FNSS gaming and provided promotional gifts Awards were made in both master and
Defense Systems, the leading such as t-shirts, caps, game bonus codes hobby categories for World War II and
manufacturer of tracked/wheeled ACVs and more. Murat Özgül abd I held Modern Armour, Quarter Scale, and Small
and weapon systems. Besides their workshopa on different techniques with Scale, and there was a hobby category in
professional technical support, the Vallejo paints and washes, and modellers Figures and Dioramas for gold, silver,
company provided unlimited drink were also provided with free samples of bronze awards. There are exciting times
services, receptions and small gifts for magazines by Pere Plas and Abrams Squad ahead for this show as we plan to make it
modellers, as well as barbeques and team. A regular feature for PlasticBattle an international show with better
recreation areas for the company staff, their shows, FNSS performed a field demo of organization, increased sponsorship from
families, modellers and visitors . their Akinci ACV and Pars 8x8 APC. Visitors FNSS and the support of our worldwide
This year’s special guest was Gergo were invited to get into the vehicles and friends. Below you can see a selection of
Szaszko of the Moson Model Show. He take close-up photos of all vehicles on models that caught my eye.
The author
holding a well-
attended
workshop on
weathering
with Vallejo
products.
The competition took place in a bright, airy display

hall; perfect for examining the work on display.

SHOWTIME
IPMS USA NATIONAL CONVENTION 2016
Tom Foxon reports from across the Atlantic. (Photos by Tim Barb)
T
his year’s US Nationals were held on and IPMS/USA Piedmont Scale Modelers IPMS membership from all across the
August 3-6, 2016 in Columbia, South (www.evilrtist.wixsite.com/piedmont- continent. Thanks to our hosts for the
Carolina. Once again it was a great scale). Below you can see a selection of show, to all the vendors, our friends from
show with the competition pushing the military models from the event (on a very foreign lands, and to everyone who made
envelope for quality in all classes. Host small fraction of the thousands of plastic it another memorable occasion. Next year
clubs were IPMS/USA Mid-Carolina Swamp models, of all genres, on show). They in Omaha!
Fox Modelers (www.ipmsmidcarolina.com) showcase the skills and commitment of

S
IT D
K UN
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E O D
D R RL
O A O www.pocketbond.co.uk
M M W
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Exclusive UK Distributors Bachmann Europe plc
Tanks of the Great War
PKTAK02008
A selection of model assembly kits by Emhar and Takom
I:35 I:35
WWI Heavy Battle Tank Mk IV Male WWI British Mk I Male Tank
PKTAK02008 PKTAK02031
I:72 I:72 I:72
Mk IV “Male” WWI Heavy Battle Mk A “Whippet” WWI Medium Tank Mk IV “Tadpole” WWI Tank with
Tank PKEM5001 PKEM5004 Rear Mortar PKEM5005
I:35 I:35
Mk IV “Male” WWI Heavy Battle Mk V “Hermaphrodite” WWI

Tank PKEM4001 Heavy Battle Tank PKEM4005 IN
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Dept MMI/1612, Moat Way, Barwell, Leics, LE9 8EY. Trade enquiries only on tel 01455 841756, info@pocketbond.co.uk AV AL EL
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Model, Collect & Create M
1/35 Trumpeter BTR-60PU
Mark Chisholm tackles Trumpeter’s R-145BM.
O
ver recent years Voyager Model The PU (as shown on the box mast, NATO designation ‘High
Trumpeter have (ref. PE35427). art) can be identified by the Ball’.
released several kits Having shelved the project for large roof-mounted dipole Another reason why I was
based on the BTR-60, 70 and 80 a while, here was the perfect antenna, which was aptly drawn to the BTR-60PU was
series. Of these, the one that opportunity to make a start. referred to by NATO as ‘Clothes that it was used as a Forward
really attracted my attention For those who are not Rail’. The PU12 is without the Command and Control vehicle,
was their ‘BTR-60PU’ (ref. familiar with this vehicle, the kit antenna, but has a large box on similar to the British FV439
01576), not least because I had offers the choice of two the right-hand side of the Comcen vehicle that we
previously acquired the photo- variants: BTR-60PU (also known upper hull. Both versions are operated from when I served in
etched upgrade set from as R-145BM), and BTR-60PU12. fitted with a telescopic antenna the Royal Signals.
Again, aware that the interior would be hardly visible once the upper
The kit includes a fully detailed interior. However, realising that this and lower hull sections were joined, I settled for a very simple paint job;
would be largely hidden, I decided to omit most items (hopefully to be the principle colours applied to main areas, and detail painting limited
put to good use in a future project). to the seats.

Trumpeter BTR-60PU 1/35
The Kit etched frets, vinyl tyres, and a Oddly, the decal sheet only common to both versions, it is
The kit comprises around 600 length of copper wire. provides markings for Czech worth noting that step 21 deals
injection-moulded Assembly is aided by a series of vehicles. While the number of with the specific differences
components (including clear black-and-white illustrations, plastic parts may seem (strangely referred to as ‘estate
parts for lights and accompanied by paint schemes somewhat excessive, many of 1’ and ‘estate 2’).
periscope lenses), for two these (along with some of the In addition to the photo-
two photo- examples. PE items) are used to build a etched upgrade set, the only
fully detailed interior … good other item used to improve the
news for those who like the kit was Voyager Model’s ‘BTR-60
idea of open hatches. While Road Wheels’ set (ref. PEA278).
most sections of the To be honest, the Trumpeter
assembly wheels with their vinyl tyres are
instructions perfectly acceptable, but I
are preferred the chunky
appearance of Voyager’s resin
version.
The kit afforded a good

opportunity to use LifeColor’s
new liquid pigments for the
interior weathering.
With the help of a hair dryer, I was able to speed up Once the two hull sections were joined, I held them
the drying time, and prevent the wash from together with an elastic band, and carefully applied a
pooling across the gloss surface. bead of Plastic Welding Compound to the seams.
Note the difference between the

kit-supplied wheels and the resin
versions from Voyager Model.
Basic construction complete.
Construction & Interior commander’s stations, and a GUN-000284 (Mr.Base White LifeColor’s new liquid
Painting range of communications and 1000), a really opaque primer pigments: LPW 01 (Burnt
control equipment. That said, that provided excellent Umber) and LPW 05 (Colonial
Beginning with the
even with all hatches fully coverage in a single coat. With Dark Sand). Noticing that this
suspension units, I found this
open, very little is visible. So, this forming the basic interior was beginning to pool across
section relatively
rather than lose all those colour, I continued by picking the gloss surface, I managed to
straightforward, but needed to
beautifully detailed items in the out certain features with a rectify the problem by blasting
check the alignment to ensure
dark void, I consigned most of NATO Green paint, simply at it with a hair dryer (set at low
that all the wheels would be in
the radio equipment to my spraying freehand as most of heat, but with a strong fan). A
contact with the ground.
spares box (no doubt to be the area would be in further wash, this time using a
Planning to have the front
used in some future project). shadow. A light coat of slightly different tone,
four wheels offset, I adjusted
Clearly, the interior would gloss varnish (directly from and the interior
the position of the axles
need to be fully painted before the can), and I was ready to
before the glue had finally
the hull halves were joined. apply a dark brown wash
set.
Keen to experiment with any made from two of
As mentioned earlier, a full
new products, I tried out
interior is provided,
Gunze Sangyo’s
including driver’s
and
Given the combination of plastic and PE components, it was

essential to apply a good coat of primer, the perfect choice
being Gaianotes’ enamel-based GS-03 (Surfacer EVO – Black).

Mr.Color 136 (Russian Green – 2)

was used for the base coat, and
followed by 18 (RML70 Black
Green) and 135 (Russian Green –
1) for shading and highlights. Following a protective coat of semi-gloss varnish, the model
received several layers of A.MIG-2010 (Chipping Fluid – Scratches
Effects), each being dried with the help of the hair dryer.
Masking for the hard-edged camouflage scheme was carried

out using Clever Putty. Although marketed as a child’s toy, this The next colour to be
material is ideally suited to the task, and is notably cheaper applied was LifeColor’s UA
than many of the specialist masking products. 240 (4BG Light Khaki).
weathering was complete. over five evenings, around check various reference photos and highlights using 18 (RML70
The upper and lower hull twenty hours in total. The to get some idea of the finished Black Green) and 135 (Russian
sections were now joined, in photoetched exterior details appearance. Green – 1) respectively.
preparation for the addition of were added during the final As always, a coat of primer Allowing the paints 24-hours
exterior details. Again, this was stages; although very delicate was the first step. With this in drying time, I then applied a
a straightforward operation, items, they certainly added to mind, I decided to use a layer of semi-gloss varnish to
thanks to the excellent parts-fit. the realism. product from the Japanese protect the paintwork during
The only modification was to fill company, Gaianotes; GS-03 subsequent weathering. The
the various location points (Surfacer EVO – Black). With the following day I treated the
Exterior Painting & model to several coats of
where I had decided to omit lights and vision blocks
Weathering A.MIG-2010 (Chipping Fluid –
hull-mounted stowage. masked, I sprayed the primer
I must admit, this is the overall, and was really Scratches Effects),
The resin wheels were
stage I look forward to … impressed by the result. Once each layer being
constructed separately, and a
the transformation from the primer was completely-dry, dried with the
Dremel tool was used to drill
plastic to ‘heavy metal’! I applied a base coat of help of
out mounting holes in the
However, before Mr.Color 136 (Russian Green – the
inner hubs.
rushing headlong into 2), followed by shading hair
Construction of the
the painting, I needed
model was carried
to dryer.
out
With the second colour applied, the mask was removed

to reveal the hard-edged camouflage scheme.
The all-important oil paints, my
Having allowed the model to completely dry, I preferred medium for adding
applied a further coat of semi-gloss varnish. Note the depth and fading effects to the
resin wheels, painted and ready to be weathered. paintwork.
To replicate the build-up of mud

and oil stains under the fenders, I
combined Vallejo’s Thick Mud
products with pigments and oils.
I prepared a dark wash (again using oils diluted with
turpentine), and applied a series of pin-washes to
accentuate panel lines and raised details.
Using a selection of diluted acrylics, I applied these to depict

further wear to the paintwork. In addition to a brush, I found Vallejo have recently released a series of products labelled as ‘Splash
a piece of foam to be particularly useful for this treatment. Mud’. Made from natural pigments suspended in a water-based acrylic
resin, the six-colour range includes Light Brown (ref. 73.804), which I
spattered over lower areas of the model using a stencil brush.
The wheels were

heavily weathered
using a combination
of pigments and
enamel-based
weathering
products.
Enamel-based weathering products are currently very popular,

one such being A.MIG-1204 (Streaking Rust Effects). I used this
to compliment the previously applied weathering treatment.

the inner portions of the paints, and added to replicate

model, and to areas that oil stains, and the impression of
need to be highlighted. These grease mixed with the dirt and
are then blended and mud.
allowed to dry, before Having allowed the oil paints
continuing with very to cure for several days, I
small amounts of the prepared a dark wash (again
darker colours over using oils diluted with
shadow areas and turpentine), and applied a
panel edges. The choice series of pin-washes to
of colours really depends accentuate panel lines and
on the specific camouflage raised details. Similarly, stains
scheme, the aim being to and shading effects were
recreate a faded appearance, added around the vehicle,
Aware and to increase the tonal particularly over the engine
customary
that some of the specialist variation. deck. The road wheels were
tools and warm
masking putty products can be On these vehicles, the area painted, and then weathered
water. Since I wanted to depict
fairly expensive, I looked for under the fenders is using a selection of AMMO’s
the vehicle in service, but not
cheaper alternatives, and came immediately visible, so I paid pigments and enamel-based
heavily damaged, I was careful
across Clever Putty (produced particular attention to adding products. A dry-brushing with
to avoid overstating this step.
by Tobar). Marketed as a child’s dirt and mud effects using one Tamiya XF-69 (NATO Black)
To prevent any further
toy, this was ideally suited to of Vallejo’s Thick Mud products. helped to highlight the tyres’
degradation of the chipping
masking hard-edged The colour was not important, chunky tread detail. All that
fluid, and to reinstate a smooth
camouflage schemes. The next the main aim being to build up remained was to replicate
surface, I applied another layer
colour to be applied was a texture that could then be minor scratches to the vehicle,
of semi-gloss varnish.
LifeColor’s UA 240 (4BG Light enhanced with a variety of using Vallejo acrylics and a fine-
Khaki). Although this is Time now to bring out the oil
pigments. These were applied pointed brush, and to lightly
intended as a WW2 camouflage paints. Much has been written
dry, before being sealed with rub a graphite stick over areas
colour, I found it to be a good about this medium for
fixer that was simply allowed to where the paintwork would
match based on my reference weathering, my favoured
drip onto the surface from a have been worn to expose bare
photos. Also, being an acrylic approach being a modification
pipette. A dark sludge colour metal.
paint, it would be relatively of the ‘oil dot’ technique. I tend
was made from various oil
easy to ‘chip’ using the to apply the lighter colours to
Final touches. A graphite stick was used to

replicate areas where the paint had been
worn to reveal bare metal, particularly around
access hatches. A close up of the front end, showing the
sratches and scrapes to the paintwork.
The radio frame and

equipment make for a
Voyager’s resin tyres look suitably very distinctive looking
rugged for a large vehicle like this. BTR-60.
References Photos
Courtesy of Museum of Artillery, St Petersburg, Russian Federation.
Availability
Trumpeter 1/35 BTR-60PU
(ref. 01576) is available from
all good model shops.
Trumpeter kits are
distributed in the UK by
Pocketbond
(www.pocketbond.co.uk).

Armour in Profile MMI
ISSUE 07
James Kinnear takes a look at some

of the latest Russian armour.
The T-14 ‘Armata’ MBT. A large tank by Russian standards, with its origami turret operated remotely from within the hull.
F
or most British military European part of the world is At the time, the 2008 parade 2015, amid the greatest tension
vehicle enthusiasts that however without doubt the was considered a one-off, but between the Western powers
are not currently serving military parade held on Red the reintroduced military and the Russian Federation
in the armed forces, the options Square on 9 May annually in parades have remained on the since the original Cold War, an
to see the most modern celebration of Victory in Europe Russian calendar ever since. almost entirely new line-up of
military technology on display (VE Day) in 1945. After the fall Back in the day, the Soviet armoured vehicles was
are generally limited to of the Soviet Union, the annual era military parades were demonstrated in public for the
fortunate attendance by invite May and November military always a showcase of new first time, including the new
to arms fairs or the occasional parades which had been a military hardware, with regular ‘Armata’ common chassis
army recruiting drive. The primary source of material for changes of equipment and platform. The T-14 ‘Armata’ MBT
citizens of many other Western military ‘recognition’ occasional cameo appearances and T-15 ‘Armata’ MICV made
countries fare better in this manuals were scrapped and for by secretive weapons such as their public debut together
respect, with military parades many years all was quiet on by the T-64 MBT, which was
being held in countries as with an entirely new
Red Square. And then, in 2008 shown in public once only
diverse as Azerbaijan and generation of wheeled and
the parades were without during the Soviet era. Since
Cyprus, France and Japan, tracked armoured vehicles, and
much forewarning re- 2008, the re-introduced annual
China and Ukraine, and not to the new RS-24 ‘Yars’
introduced, now on 9 May parades have also featured
forget North Korea for the annually, and commemorating intercontinental ballistic missile
subtle changes of vehicles, with
hard-core enthusiast. VE Day rather than on 7 several prototypes appearing system, just for some added
The best annual show of new November celebrating the one year, and then emphasis.
military equipment in the Russian Revolution as before. disappearing the next. Then in
MMI Armour in Profile
Taking detail photographs the

The first line of defence - a BREM-1 ARV, of which hard way! There also were
many were deployed in case of mechanical stationary vehicles to be found
breakdown, not unheard of in the tank world. parked around the city centre
The Red Square parades are Photographing armoured

not, however, quite the public columns passing at not exactly
A single T-34-85 led the parade, though three were marshalled for
spectacle that they might tortoise speed and relatively
the event. While the modern tanks drove to the parade under their
appear from television close takes a bit of practice.
own power, the historical T-34-85s were transported there by
coverage. In fact for the main Added to this, despite the roads
KamAZ-65225 tank transporters.
parade and the last daytime being wetted by road sweepers
rehearsal the centre of Moscow before the columns pass, dust
is locked down and access to can obscure vision - sometime
the city centre is severely to great photographic effect -
restricted to government while certain vehicles,
officials, Russian and foreign particularly the tanks, can emit
military delegations and of planet-destroying volumes of
course invited veterans. The blue exhaust smoke when
rehearsals nevertheless provide accelerating sharply. None of
a good opportunity for the which are of course excuses,
public to see some of the latest just practical realities!
Russian military hardware as In Moscow for the 2016
close as would seem prudent ‘Victory Parade’, celebrating 71
considering the speed some of years of the Victory over
the vehicles travel at to catch Germany in Europe (VE Day) in
up with the vehicles at the front 1945, I was joined by John Ham
of the armoured columns. For from MAFVA, making his
the rehearsals, the parade second excursion into the real
columns travel a significant Russia as opposed to the
distance through the closed Western press generated one.
streets of central Moscow, As he had a hotel room above
affording those with prior the main thoroughfare leading
knowledge of the routes an onto Red Square and I was
interesting photographic seated on Red Square slightly
opportunity. That prior to the left of the man who is
knowledge is not difficult to apparently the sum of all
find, as the local press publish Western fears (though I have to
the route well in advance admit he does rather represent
showing the roads that will be his country and population
closed for the duration of the more than some I could
A modern anachronism - a KET-T heavy recovery
parades, main battle tanks and mention but let’s not go
vehicle, based on the MAZ-537 tank transporter,
irritable Russian drivers making there….), we managed a few
now well over the half century in service!
for a poor combination on unusual views of next
Moscow’s packed roads. generation Russian armour.
The ‘Kurganets’-25, built in the city of Kurgan by the same plant

that makes the BMP-3, is a series of vehicles rather than a single
type. This is the tracked APC version with a remote controlled An entirely new vehicle design, the ‘Bumerang’ wheeled APC (BTR
machine gun as main armament. in Russian) strongly resembles designs in service with NATO forces.

The GAZ-2330 ‘Tigr’ light armoured car was developed as

Russia’s answer to the US ‘Hummer’, now found in a
KamAZ and Ural, the military truck manufacturers, have both multitude of versions. The later ‘Tigr-M’ was demonstrated
recently begun series production of ‘Taifun’ wheeled APCs for in 2016 in three versions, this one being armed with the
limited regional conflicts. This is the Ural version, the ‘Taifun-U’. ‘Arbalet-DM’ remote controlled machine gun turret.
With 135 military vehicles chassis. The 2S19 ‘Msta-S’ self-

participating, the 9 May 2016 propelled gun was joined by
parade was slightly smaller the newer 2S35 ‘Koalitsiya-SV’.
than last year, but that was Air defence was represented by
hardly noticeable. The parade the ‘Pantzyr-S1’ gun-missile
was led by a single T-34-85, system on its 8x8 KamAZ-6560
with two held in reserve at the chassis, the S-400 (this year
entrance to Red square, a not mounted on the older MAZ-
unsurprising sign of the 543M) and the tracked
decreasing numbers of ‘Tor-M2U’ and ‘Buk M2’ air
serviceable 70 year old T-34-85s defence missile systems. The
available for ceremonial duty ‘Pantzyr-S1’ and S-400 have also
under the gaze of the domestic seen service in Syria since the
and world press. Three separate last parade. The May 2016
variants of the ‘Tigr-M’ parade was attended by the The now infamous ‘Buk’ surface to air missile system, specifically a
armoured car then entered the ‘Iskander’ surface-to-surface later ‘Buk-M2’. The ‘Buk’ is a Soviet era system, still in service with
square, including a new version missile system in both ‘SPU’ Russia, Ukraine and several other former Soviet bloc nations.
mounting the remote launcher and ‘TZM’ trans loader
controlled ‘Arbalet-DM’ versions, with the parade finale
machine gun module, and the being the RS-24 ‘Yars’
modernized ‘Kornet-D’ ATGM intercontinental ballistic missile
system. The T-90A MBT was (ICBM) mounted on the
joined for the second year by massive MZKT-79221 wheeled
the T-14 ‘Armata’ MBT, the T-90A and 16x16 chassis. The new
having seen combat with ‘Bumerang’ wheeled APC, a
Russian forces in Syria since the
potential service replacement
last parade in May 2015. The T-
for the venerable BTR-80 which
15 ‘Armata’ heavy MICV was not
has been in service for over
present this year, but the
‘Kurganets-25’ which also had three decades, represented the
its public debut last year was parade rear-guard.
paraded again, in both APC and Hopefully the accompanying
MICV versions. The airborne photographs will provide some
forces were represented by the inspiration to those considering
BMD-4M airborne light tank modelling the latest generation
and by the ‘Rakushka’ airborne of Russian military hardware
BTR - a replacement for the being built in Russia today, and The machine gun armed APC
older BTR-D based on the in some cases already being version of the ‘Kurganets-25’.
original and much smaller BMD built in model form in China!
The ‘Tigr-M’ armed with four ‘Kornet-D’ The KamAZ ‘Taifun-K’ made it public debut in 2014,
ATGM systems on twin retractable mounts. followed a year later by the Ural built ‘Taifun-U’.
‘Kurganets-25’ tracked APCs en-route to Red Square. The ‘Iskander’ theatre level tactical rocket has been in service
Note the significant standoff armour protection. for several years. It is mounted on an MZKT-7930 chassis.
The RS-24 ‘Yars’ intercontinental ballistic missile system is an

impressive sight, and due to its sheer size is tricky when moving to
get into a single photo frame!
The BMD-4M continued the line of airborne forces light tanks that
began with the original and somewhat more diminutive BMD
BMP-3s idling on
Tverska Ulitsa, waiting
their turn to move
onto Red Square.
The BMP-3, originally maligned in the Western defence press as a

troubled design, and now a standard MICV in Russian army
service, not to mention a great export success story.
Three versions of An unusual

the ‘Tigr-M’, with overhead
machine view of the
gun/grenade ‘base’ model
launcher, ‘Arbalet- ‘Tigr-M’,
DM’ remote control courtesy of
machine gun turret John Ham.
and ATGM rocket (Photograph
armament credit: John
configurations. Ham)
(Photograph credit:
John Ham)
The ‘Tigr-M’, armed KamAZ built ‘Taifun-K’ BTRs entering Red Square.
with the ‘Kornet-D’ anti-
tank missile system on
retractable mountings.

The BMP-3 MICV, with the flag of the Russian land forces. The ‘Kurganets-25’ tracked ‘BTR’ or APC, the first Russian APC since
the BTR-50, as from 1966 the BMP MICV took over from the
original, now reintroduced, APC concept.
The ‘Kurganets-25’ in MICV form, a direct descendant of the BMP-3, The T-90A MBT, the most modern MBT in Russian Army
and capable of engaging both infantry and armour, rather than service, pending the service introduction of the T-14 ‘Armata’.
being a ‘battlefield taxi’.
The 2S35 ‘Koalitsiya-S’ is the intended service replacement for the The ‘Iskander’ is the next-generation replacement for the ‘Tochka’
2S19 ‘Msta-S’. It features a significantly enlarged turret, and a and earlier ‘Scud’. These are TZM trans-loader vehicles on the
prototype with twin ‘over and under’ barrels has even been built. MZKT-7930 chassis.
The RS-24 ‘Yars’ ICBM, mounted on the massively powerful 16x16 In previous years the ‘Topol’ or later ‘Topol-M’ ICBM vehicles
MZKT-79221 wheeled chassis, is an impressive sight. culminated the parade. In 2016 there was an afterthought in the
form of the new ‘Bumerang’ wheeled BTR, a potential service
replacement for the ageing (but as effective as when originally
designed) BTR-80.
Another unusual
overhead view, of the
BMD-4M airborne light
tank. The BMD series
has always defied an
accurate classification,
being more airborne
light tank than
airborne MICV, though
performing both Another view of a BREM-1 ARV, which were
unctions. (Photograph parked at strategic points around the city centre,
credit: John Ham) as the Russians say ‘seki sluchi’ (just in case...).
T
he T-14 ‘Armata’ is the first Moscow. By the time of the last
entirely new main battle daytime rehearsal for the
tank (MBT) to be parade held on 7th May, the
introduced by the Russian turret tarpaulins had been
Federation since the break-up removed and the T-14 ‘Armata’
of the Soviet Union, the post- was finally unveiled for internal
Soviet T-90 and T-90A having public consumption and
been basically modernisations comment by ‘experts’ in the
The T-14 ‘Armata’ making its public debut in May 2015. For the first of the Soviet era T-72 MBT. foreign press, some of whom
evening rehearsals the turret and armament remained concealed Today, it is the world’s newest
in canvas tarpaulins. (Photo credit: Andrey Aksenov). actually knew their T-14 from
tank type, and arguably also their London omnibus.
the most advanced MBT in
T-14 ‘Armata’ is without
terms of new concepts
doubt a break from tradition,
introduced on a tank destined
Even covered in tarpaulin, the new and highly angular turret with and has many features that
turret bustle is clearly evident. (Photo credit: Andrey Aksenov). for series production. After
may or may not make it into
many years of waiting for a new
series production. When
Russian MBT debut, and some
considering the T-14 ‘Armata’ as
cancelled plans in the form of
a new tank development it
the ‘Chorniy Oryol’ (Black Eagle)
should be borne in mind that
MBT which was developed to
the ‘Armata’ is a common
prototype stage but
chassis platform rather than a
subsequently abandoned, the
single vehicle, the base chassis
new Russian next generation T-
14 ‘Armata’ MBT was publically being formally known as the
unveiled on Moscow’s Red ‘Armata Universal Combat
Square in 2015 as the Platform’. To date, this consists
centrepiece of the annual of the T-14 ‘Armata’ tank, and
Victory Parade. the T-15 ‘Armata’ heavy MICV
which made its public debut
The T-14 ‘Armata’ was
simultaneously with the T-14
unveiled much in the manner
MBT, and an intended range of
of a new car model at the
armoured vehicles based on
Geneva Motor Show. During
the same common chassis.
the first evening trial run for the
May 2015 parade, the T-14 The T-14 ‘Armata’ differs
turrets (and those of other significantly in appearance
newly debuting weapons from recent Russian and earlier
systems) were covered in Soviet era MBTs. One of the
canvas tarpaulins to shroud most impressive features of the
them from public gaze. This is T-14 ‘Armata’ MBT (and indeed
normal practice during Russian its T-15 ‘Armata’ heavy MICV
Even with the turret still under wraps, other distinguishing features tank development and testing, sibling) is its sheer size, more
are clear, including the elongated hull with seven road wheel pairs but was somewhat unique for comparable to the large MBTs
on each side and the standoff ERA armour protection. the first ‘public’ outing of the T- of NATO stock rather than the
14 MBT through the streets of more diminutive MBTs for
This rear view clearly shows design features including the

‘reshotka’ screen armour, and the track pads fitted for road transit
With the tarpaulin removed, the highly angular, and crewless, T-14 - specifically introduced so as not to shred Moscow’s roads
turret is revealed. (Photo credit: Andrey Aksenov). during military parades. (Photo credit: Andrey Aksenov).

which the Russian Federation is origami turret is nevertheless

better known as was the Soviet an entirely new departure
Union before. The greatly compared to any previous
lengthened chassis has seven Soviet or Russian MBT design,
road wheel pairs per side as and like the tank itself,
apposed to the six on the T-72, represents the ‘high risk’
T-80 and T-90 MBTs. The large development path fulfilled in
and highly faceted ‘origami’ earlier decades by the T-62, the T-14 ‘Armata’ tanks set off for the 7 May 2015 evening parade
turret with its large turret T-64 and T-80 MBTs. rehearsal. The turret is quite enigmatic, seeming to dramatically
change shape depending on the angle of view. (Photo credit:
bustle containing ready-to use Overall size and remote Andrey Aksenov).
rounds for the autoloader controlled crewless turret aside,
system is entirely crewless, with some other design aspects of
the complex angular structure the T-14 are more conventional.
being entirely at odds with The main armament is the
earlier Russian and Soviet tank smoothbore 125mm 2A82-1M,
designs. On first seeing the new derived from the 125mm 2A46,
tank, some ‘experts’ passed which is the standard
comment on the thin armour armament on Russian T-90 and
plate on some turret sections, earlier T-72 MBTs. The
some even sarcastically autoloader fed weapon fires
inferring that they might be conventional ammunition and
plywood, but for those who laser guided ATGM rockets as
The commemorative orange and black parade markings on this T-
have actually sat in a tank turret with the T-90 MBT. A potential 14 ‘Armata’ are taken from the ‘Georgiskaya Lentochka’, the ribbon
and considered the weakest exists to in future upgrade the for the St. George’s medal for military gallantry, originally
link, it is always the softest part armament to the 152mm 2A83, dating from the time of Ekaterina II, and re-instated by Stalin in
of the weapons system - the and this was built into the 1943.Today, it has a similar commemorative meaning to the Poppy
in Great Britain.
crew. In the case of the T-14 original technical
‘Armata’, the crew have all been specifications, the ‘TTTs’ as the
moved to the greater safety Russians call them. A small but
afforded by an armoured subtle detail is the absence of a
module within the hull, gun barrel fume extractor -
significantly reducing the standard on Russian MBTs since
overall volume of armour the days of the later variants of
required as it now has only to the T-54, which is of course
directly protect the main because there are no crew in
armament, autoloader and the turret to be asphyxiated by
turret ammunition, without the fumes, making the fume
additional (and significant) extractor redundant. The T-14
internal volume dedicated to ‘Armata’ has an advanced fire
crew space and movement. The control system with
The ‘Armata’ is a common chassis rather than an individual vehicle.
sheet steel is thereby for the considerable computerized The T-15 ‘Armata’ heavy MICV seen here was unveiled
most part providing weather automation and an apparent simultaneously with the T-14 ‘Armata’ MBT. (Photo credit: Andrey
and shrapnel protection for hydraulic suspension lock to Aksenov).
secondary components. The improve firing accuracy.
This view of the T-14 ‘Armata’ clearly shows many detail features,
from the laser sighting to the remote turret machine-gun, to the
LED headlights. (Photo credit: Andrey Aksenov).
The T-15 ‘Armata’ heavy MICV shares its chassis with the T-14 MBT.
The level of firepower and armour protection is self-evident.
The three-man crew are all of Soviet tank drivers.

located within the hull The T-14 ‘Armata’ has a
protected by an armoured combat weight of 48,000kg,
module, which provides hefty by Russian standards but
armour protection equivalent still less than NATO tanks. The
to 900mm of vertical RHA tank has a quoted top speed of
armour. The armour used on 80-90km/h, impressive for such
the T-14 ‘Armata’ is an advanced a large and heavy tank with a
mix of conventional and ERA conventional turbo-diesel
explosive-reactive box armour engine, and a range of 500km.
sections, the latest system The T-14 MBT is built by the
being defined as ‘Malakhit’, Uralvagonzavod (UVZ) plant,
with the ‘Afghanit’ active located in Nizhny Tagil in
The T-14 ‘Armata’ making its public debut in May 2015. For the first protection system launching Siberia, with components such
evening rehearsals the turret and armament remained concealed rockets to intercept incoming as the A-85-3A engine being
in canvas tarpaulins. (Photo credit: Andrey Aksenov).
rounds and anti-tank missiles. provided by other plants.
The ‘Afghnit’ system can be The first pre-production T-14
traced back to the ‘Drozhd’ ‘Armata’ tanks are now
system experimentally fitted on undergoing service evaluation.
the T-55 and T-62 several At which point it should be
decades ago. noted that, as with several new
The T-14 ‘Armata’ is powered Russian military vehicles
by an A-85-3A turbocharged introduced in recent years, the
diesel engine with a claimed T-14 MBT is a work in progress,
working power output of and as such is likely to undergo
1500hp, which can be forced to significant changes in
2000hp for short periods appearance as it is modified for
according to Russian source series production and service
data. The engine delivers with the Russian Army.
power to the tracks via a 12 Although projected initial
The T-14 ‘Armata’ turret is packed with active defensive equipment speed automatic gearbox, production numbers in the
that can trace its lineage back to the ‘Drozhd’ system first relieving the need for double region of 2500 units have been
experimentally mounted on the T-55 and T-62. handed gear-changes that announced, any figures are
afflicted previous generations today purely speculative. It is
The turret is a remarkably complex

design with relatively thin surface
panels that disguise the shape of the
actual internal armour core. Note
the wind sensor and the ‘Afghanit’
active defence system launch tubes.
A T-14 ‘Armata’ returning from the first daytime parade rehearsal

in May 2015, the tank’s first daytime ‘public outing’.
A T-14 ‘Armata’ MBT

moving towards
Red Square for an
evening parade
rehearsal in May
2016. This side view
gives a true
representation of
the turret shape,
turret bustle and
overall turret length
and turret bustle.

however unlikely that the T-14 more risky alternative (such as the Allied Victory Parade in ‘Operation Barbarossa’.
‘Armata’ will become the in the past the T-62, T-64, T-80). Berlin in the late summer of What form and external
default standard Russian MBT As of today the T-14 remains a 1945. The T-14 ‘Armata’ is clearly appearance the T-14 ‘Armata’
in the future, as the Russian prototype MBT awaiting service a domestic and ‘not for export’ will ultimately take as it enters
Federation has standardised on entry, definitely an advanced Russian high technology tank service only time will tell, but it
the T-90 MBT and as in the days tank, albeit overall more in the mould of the Soviet era will definitely not be identical
of the Soviet Union, the conventional than initial T-64.The latter remained to the initial pre-series batch
country when introducing a appearances would suggest. As ‘domestic’ and thereby built for the inaugural military
‘high risk’ tank will always a statement of renewed enigmatic throughout its Soviet parades on Red Square and for
deploy at least two tank types military might, the T-14 has Army service life, only to enter field evaluation purposes with
in parallel, the base model MBT certainly made its point, in a combat in 2014 in a short but the tank forces of the Russian
(such as historically the T-54/55, manner similar to the brutal war that left scenes of Federation. Which is to say,
T-72) and the technologically unexpected appearance of the destroyed T-64 tanks in Western keep the scalpel and glue
more advanced, and thereby then ‘radical’ IS-3 heavy tank at Ukraine reminiscent of handy!
The ‘reshotka’ anti-

RPG screens near
the exhaust system
were introduced on
Russian tanks as a Though not in clear focus, this
direct experience of view clearly shows the many
combat in built up panels that make up the turret
areas in Chechnya. outer surface on the T-14 ‘Armata’.
The ‘origami’ turret is a radical

departure from earlier Russian
and Soviet tank designs.
T-14 ‘Armata’ MBTs en-route to the 7 May daytime

parade rehearsal. Again, the frontal turret
perspective is very different from the side view. ).
This general view gives what might be described as an

accurate perspective of the shape of the T-14 ‘Armata’.
This rear view clearly shows the rear detail. Note the T-14 ‘Armata’ MBTs on Red Square for the Victory
turret bustle, the Reshotka’ screen armour and that Europe Day parade, 9 May 2016. The parade was
there are engine exhausts on both sides of the hull. attended by President Putin, Prime Minister Medvedev,
former Soviet premier Mikhail Gorbachov, and
somewhat further along the benches by the author!
One can say what one likes about the politics behind The sheer size of the T-14 ‘Armata’ is
the now reintroduced displays of military hardware particularly evident in this photograph.
on Red square, but they are rather impressive!
Taking the inevitable guesswork out of what the tops of new

tanks look like, this fine view was taken by John Ham from
his hotel window. (Photograph credit: John Ham)
The T-14 ‘Armata’ is an impressive tank not least due to its size
compared to contemporary Russian MBTs such as the T-90A.
1/35 Tamiya SU-85
Marian Bunc
tackles Tamiya’s SU-85.
I
t is often photoetched items, and strips
said that to receive the of aluminium cut from a drinks
resolutions are highest decoration ‘Hero of the can. Since the external
there to be broken. So, barrel. fuel tanks would not
Soviet Union’, his portrait also
having made the decision to Over the years I have appeared on a 1969 Russian be required, I filled the
refrain from buying any new built numerous kits of Soviet postage stamp. location slots for the supports,
kits until my current collection tanks. However, on this and did likewise to other areas
is exhausted, it wasn’t long occasion I wanted to depict a of the hull. Unfortunately, the
before I was parting with my specific vehicle. Marked with The Kit hatches on the superstructure
money and walking away with the name ‘Kapitán Otakar Jaroš’, No stranger to Tamiya’s roof are the wrong size, so I was
Tamiya’s venerable 1/35-scale this Czech tank participated in motorised kits, I was well aware faced with the laborious task of
kit of the SU-85. Never satisfied the Battle for Dukla Pass in that the first task would be to removing the moulded-on
with out-of-the-box builds, I 1944. Incidentally, Jaroš had fill the various holes in the details, filling the gaps, and re-
decided to add to the modest fought with Czech forces in the lower hull. At the same time, scribing the panel lines for a
expense with a set of T-34 Soviet Union until his death the wide gaps beneath the more accurate representation.
wheels (from the Czech during the Battle of Sokolovo in sponsons needed to be And now to a crucial aspect,
company, RES-IM), 1943. The first member blanked off with plastic sheet. identifying the various details
Eduard’s PE of a foreign army The next step was to remove specific to this particular
the fenders, and replace vehicle (at least during the
these using a 1944 engagement). With the
engine combination help of archive images and
grilles, of suggestions via the Internet
MasterClub’s individual- forums, I noticed that the rear
link tracks, and RB section of the right-hand
Model’s turned-metal fender was missing; the front
gun and right-hand side of
the

Tamiya SU-85 1/35
The holes
designed to
accommodate
switches for the
motorised
model were
filled, and plastic
sheet used to
cover the gaps
beneath the
sponsons. ).
The fenders were replaced with

commander’s
PE items, and strips of aluminium
cut from a drinks can. Note the cupola were
corrections made to the hatches. protected with
welded steel plates; the
hull’s front plate was secured
Magic-Sculp was used to replicate the various weld by five rather than four bolts;
seams around the hull and superstructure. The only and the join between the glacis
photoetched part added to the model was the
and lower hull was angled
mesh screen over the engine grille.
rather than rounded.
While the kit’s road wheels
are the correct type for this
vehicle, a combination of poor
quality moulding and
inaccurate detail convinced me
that the resin replacements
would be the better option. In
fact, these wheels from RES-IM
are excellent; certainly a
company worth checking out
again if ever I need
more T-34-type
wheels.
The model received

a coat of primer.
1/35 Tamiya SU-85
I gave the entire model a coat of XF-13 (JA Green). Then with Having prepared my own stencils, I applied the lettering to the
the help of a paper mask, I applied highlights and shading superstructure, and made any corrections using a fine-pointed brush.
Employing the ‘oil dot’ technique, I began to

The weathering process began with a dark ochre filter made create the impression of faded paintwork.
from a heavily diluted mix of oils and Humbrol enamels.
Using a mix of Ivory Black and Brown Madder oil

paints, I treated the entire model to a wash, both
At the same time, I strengthened shadows to add depth to the base colour, and to
between specific panel joints. accentuate panel lines and raised details.
Painting, Marking & were simply achieved with a directly onto the vehicle. Any applied the lighter colours to
Weathering mask made from a sheet of stiff corrections could then be areas that were previously
paper. made with a fine-pointed highlighted, and darker colours
BHaving completed the basic
I do recall that Eduard once brush. to areas in shadow. I strongly
assembly, I applied the
produced a mask for painting Deciding on a heavily recommend using good-
customary primer, both to
create a smooth homogenous the wording on the side of the weathered appearance, I began quality oil paints for this
surface, and to allow me to vehicle. It appears that this is by applying a dark ochre filter technique; the cheaper ones
check for any construction no longer available; not a made from a heavily diluted tend to have a coarse pigment
errors. Satisfied with the result, particular worry because, if I mix of oils and Humbrol that shows up as tiny spots
I gave the entire model a coat remember correctly, the enamels. Allowing this to once the thinner has
of XF-13 (JA Green), followed lettering was not really completely dry, I moved on to evaporated.
by highlights and shading accurate. The solution was to replicating faded paintwork In my opinion, the
using lighter and darker shades print my own version on paper, employing the currently application of washes is one of
of the base colour. Hard edges cut out the letters to make a popular ‘oil dot’ technique. To the most important aspects of
between the different areas stencil, and spray the name achieve the best result, I weathering. As well as adding

Tamiya SU-85 1/35
Finally,
diluted
Brown
Madder oil
paint was
added, and
blended
with a moist
brush for a
more
The chipped paintwork effects began with a lighter version of the realistic
base colour being applied with a piece of sponge, and followed appearance.
by dark grey lightly brushed into the inner portions of the ‘chips’.
Sira Hobby’s PP208 (Sandy Brown) pigment paste was applied

to the lower hull and chassis, and small amounts of AW01 (Dark
Focusing on vertical and sloping surfaces, I Wash) added to replicate wet stains and spots.
extended the blending to give the
impression of rust streaking.
The upper hull and fenders received a layer of SA07 (Dust)

aqua liquid pigment. This was then mixed with E13 (Light
Sand) to replicate dust streaks down vertical surfaces, and The replacement road wheels from RES-IM are a
accumulated patches over horizontal panels. great improvement on those supplied with the kit.
depth to the base colour, it touch with a fine-pointed showed the vehicle clean and lower hull and chassis, and
immediately accentuates panel brush, just enough to create a well maintained; others added small amounts of AW01
lines and raised details. Here I subtle darkening of the area. showed it with a heavy build- (Dark Wash) to replicate wet
used a dark brown wash made Again, allowing this to dry, I up of mud around the lower stains and spots. SA07 (Dust)
from a mix of Ivory Black and began to add diluted Brown hull and running gear, and the aqua liquid pigment was
Brown Madder oil paints. Madder oil paint into the ‘chips’, upper hull partially concealed applied to the upper hull,
The next step was to and blended with a moist by bundles of grass and straw. mainly around raised details
replicate chipped paintwork. As brush for a more realistic While the latter certainly and over the fenders. This was
always, I began by applying a appearance. Focusing on appealed to me, I opted instead then mixed with E13 (Light
lighter version of the base vertical and sloping surfaces, I for a compromise of a vehicle Sand) to replicate dust streaks
colour using a piece of sponge. extended the blending to give without camouflage cover, but down vertical l.
The inner portions of these the impression of rust with a fair degree of mud and
were then marked with a streaking. dirt. Using Sira Hobby’s PP208
diluted dark grey (from the Returning to my reference (Sandy Brown) pigment paste, I
Vallejo range); a very light photos, I noticed that several applied a heavy coat over the
1/35 Tamiya SU-85
Once painted, the wheels

were weathered in
keeping with the rest of
the vehicle.
Having assembled the

tracks, I gave them an
initial coat of red-
brown, and weathered
them with a
combination of PP208 Further weathering, this
(Sandy Brown) pigment time using a grey-brown
paste, E13 (Light Dust) dust pigment, and fixed
pigment, and a with Tamiya X-20A
randomly applied dark (Acrylic Paint Thinner).
wash.
Clumps of grass (made from sea-ball fibres) and various leaves (from
A spare track-link, suitably Model Scene) were placed around the vehicle, together with a fallen apple
painted and weathered, was (made from a ball of Magic-Sculp, and painted with Vallejo acrylics).
tucked behind one of the
grab rails.

Tamiya SU-85 1/35
Without the rear right-hand

fender, the track would have Having
thrown up large quantities of photographed
mud onto the upper hull. So, the finished piece, I
using my previous pigments a posted the results on the
and washes, I gave this the fallen Internet. Thinking that I had
heavy treatment, having first apple on the covered every detail, I was
masked off the surrounding fender. The apple was simply informed that this particular
area. Clumps of grass (made made from a ball of Magic- vehicle had the older-style
from sea-ball fibres) and Sculp, and painted with Vallejo mantlet, with four not six bolts
various leaves (from Model acrylics. around the base of the gun Availability
Scene) were placed around the Final additions included a barrel. Dilemma … correct the
vehicle. Also, inspired by a Tamiya 1/35 SU-85 (ref.
towing cable and spade, and error or not? Sense prevailed,
photo of a T-34 on the Milovice 35072) is available from all
the model was complete. and I left things as they were.
Tank Training Area, I positioned good model shops.
ICM Typ 2.5-32 (1.5 ton)
1/35 WWII German Light Truck
Vladimir Yashin brings a

gastronomic delight of sorts.
The Appetizer commercial type. Several indicator. Nor
O
ver recent months I features seemed to confirm is it likely that
have been focusing on this: the lower sides to the the vehicle
models of military cargo area (three panels would carry
ambulance vehicles. While instead of four), the absence of tool holders on
browsing through reference tool boxes under the body, the the bonnet, jerry
images, I came across a lack of tilt-cover tie-down can mounts, or a
photograph of a Red Cross points, the distinctive ‘scooped’ tool box under the
Opel truck that had been ends to the rear mudguards, off-side body. A
converted to carry a field civilian-pattern tyres, and the further clue to the
kitchen; such an unusual near-side door mirror (photo vehicle’s origin, the
subject, it simply had to take 0). Unfortunately, I was unable rear wheels and
centre stage on my workbench to find any other photographs mudguards are
at the expense of my other of the vehicle. So, assuming almost certainly
half-finished projects. that this was indeed an ex- painted gloss black.
civilian truck, it was probably An educated guess
At first sight, the vehicle not fitted with a would be that this was a
appeared to be the standard The Cold Starter
‘Tarnscheinwerfer’ light, slit commercial truck that had
1.5-ton Opel Blitz. However, masks over the headlights, or been requisitioned by the The starting point for the
closer cab roof-mounted trailer Wehrmacht, and subsequently project was ICM’s ‘Typ 2.5-32
examination used as a field kitchen in one (1.5 ton) WWII German Light
suggested that of the medical units. Truck’ (ref. 35401). Before
this was not the making a start, I acquired
Wehrmacht various items to carry out the
vehicle, but conversion:
more likely a ‘German Small Field Kitchen
pre-war Hf.14’ (ref. 35008) IBG Models
‘Feldküche Light Truck 4x2
Conversion Set’ (ref. 3569)
Dnepromodel
‘Opel Blitz PE Upgrade Set’
(ref. 35101) Dnepromodel
‘Headlights’(ref. 3501) Elf
‘PE Windscreen
Wipers’(ref. 276)
Royal Model
‘Mirrors WWII’
(ref. TP
024)

ICM Typ 2.5-32 (1.5 ton)
WWII German Light Truck 1/35
Eduard steerable front wheels,

‘German Military Vehicle Reg. a fairly well detailed
Plates’ (ref. 2519) Verlinden cab interior and
engine compartment,
‘German Boxes & Equipment, 0
the option of
1939-45’(ref. S-502) Stalingrad
open/closed doors
‘Cooking Ware’(ref: 35005) and bonnet, and a
Diopark convincing wood-
Various Food Sets from grain texture to the
PlusModel, Verlinden, J’s Work, cargo bed. A well
Stalingrad & Diopark presented instruction
Nuts & Bolts from MasterClub manual is
accompanied by
PE Chains from Aber
painting/marking
Plastic Sheet/Rod/Profiles from schemes (with
Aber, Lion Roar & Evergreen appropriate decals)
for three vehicles.
Released in 2013, the ICM kit
comprises two sprues of tan-
coloured injection-moulded
components, clear parts
A wartime image of the
for windows and lights,
subject of this article.
and a set of vinyl tyres.
Notable features
include
ICM Typ 2.5-32 (1.5 ton)
1 2
Initial impressions were quite Once hardened, they were

3 favourable; not only was the kit modified with a sharp blade
well moulded and finely and abrasive paper.
detailed, the modest price I replaced the cab doors with
(currently around £20.00 in the resin versions, added rear-view
UK) was particularly appealing. mirrors to both sides, and
My main disappointment, removed the top panel from
however, was with the fragile the sides and rear of the cargo
plastic used (something I have area. Noticing that
found in many of ICM’s kits). Dnepromodel’s resin shelter
Consequently, removing the was slightly too high and wide
smaller parts from the sprue for this particular model, I
required extreme care to avoid adjusted the size, and added a
breakages. large box made from resin and
As a point of accuracy, it is plastic parts.
worth noting that the Opel With the cab partly-
Blitz kits produced by ICM assembled, I used pieces of
include certain features that are Evergreen plastic sheet to fill
definitely post-war. I can only the recesses in the rear wall. I
4 assume that they based their also replaced the kit-supplied
design on a post-war museum doors with more accurate resin
exhibit. Clearly, an accurate items from Dnepromodel
depiction of a wartime vehicle (photo 1). The exterior of the
will require some modification. cab was also reworked with the
The two most obvious areas are help of a sharp blade and
the rear wall of the cab, which abrasive paper (photo 2).
needs to be flat (both interior Presumably a moulding fault,
and exterior); and the rear four of the bars in the radiator
wheel hubs need to be conical grille were broken, so I replaced
rather than cylindrical. these with plastic rod. I gather
Originally planning to replace that licensing laws prevent ICM
the wheels with a more from using the name ‘Opel
accurate resin set, I was unable Blitz’. Because of
to find anything suitable, so this, the
settled for improving the ones radiator-
provided. The first task was to mounted
add rivets to the
5 inner portions,
and replace the
moulded-on bolt
heads with resin
items from
MasterClub.
Correcting the
tread pattern
on the vinyl
tyres proved
to be very
difficult, the
solution being to
place them in the
freezer for a while.

ICM Typ 2.5-32 (1.5 ton)
6 7
logo is presented as a simple chassis using plastic sheet and

panel. Fortunately, I was able to sections of plastic rod (photo
use the PE version from the 6). With the main part of the
8
Dnepromodel PE set (photo 3). model assembled, I was
Having attached the cab and particularly impressed by the
rear body to the chassis, I replacement headlights; not
masked the windows to protect only do they include imitation
them from damage during bulbs, but the interior reflector
subsequent assembly. The surface really adds to the
cargo-bed sides had been realism once the lenses are in
reduced in height as per the place (photo 7).
reference image, and the
shelter modified to fit the cargo The First Dish
area (photo 4).
My initial plan was to install
Improvements were made to the field kitchen from Tamiya’s
the front wheels, headlights ‘Gulaschkanone’ set. However,
replaced by more accurate the type required here was the
versions from Elf, and small smaller Hf.14, the only plastic
amounts of putty used to version being from IBG Models.
neaten the seams around the 9
Sadly, this is not a particularly
cab and bonnet (photo 5). accurate kit, many parts
Similarly, the rear wheels were requiring replacement or
corrected, and fixing plates improvement
were added using plastic
to the stock and PE
items (photos
8-10).
10
ICM Typ 2.5-32 (1.5 ton)
11 12
The various elements of the Gloss Black) was chosen for the
13 model were temporarily black areas, and XF-57 (Buff ) for
attached before being the wooden sections inside the
disassembled in preparation for shelter. To provide a suitable
the painting. The windows contrast between the wooden
were carefully masked using a cargo area and the metal cab
combination of Tamiya’s (both of which would be the
‘Masking Tape for Curves’, same colour), I applied a coat of
standard masking tape, and X-35 (Semi Gloss Varnish) to the
masking liquid (photo 11). latter. To replicate the plywood
lining to the shelter interior, I
used decals from Uschi van der
The Second Dish Rosten. Applied with the help
Studying the reference of Microscale’s Set & Sol
photo, I came to the conclusion products, these were then
that the upper part of the sealed with a coat of XF-86
vehicle would have been re- (Matt Varnish) (photo 12).
painted in Dunkelgrau (a very The Red Cross markings were
dark grey, applied to most a combination of decals (for the
14 German military vehicles cab), and airbrushing through
during the early stages of the homemade stencils (over the
war). As mentioned earlier, the textured surface of the wooden
rear wheels and mudguards panels). Before attempting to
have a gloss finish, and appear spray, I masked the entire
to be much darker, suggesting surrounding area to prevent
that these retained their any overspray from ruining the
original paint. As for the front paintwork (photo 13). The
wheels and mudguards, I easiest way to recreate the
cannot be certain as to the markings was to begin with a
actual colour. white disc, and follow this with
Using Tamiya paints, I red through a Balkenkreuz
decided that XF-24 (Dark Grey) template (photo 14). Satisfied
would be a suitable match for with the result, I added further
the Dunkelgrau. X-18 (Semi markings using appropriate
15 16

ICM Typ 2.5-32 (1.5 ton)
17 18
decals from my spares box boards (photo 17). The next

(photo 15). step was to treat the model to 19
Time now to apply filters to an overall wash, the perfect
the paintwork. The truck itself choice being MIG Productions’
received a coat of Wilder’s NL- P220 (Dark Wash) (photo 18).
09 (Light Grey-Blue Filter); and Given that the field kitchen
the kitchen, MIG Productions’ would be the most heavily used
P418 (Warm Grey) (photo 16). part of the vehicle, I replicated
Having allowed these to fully numerous scratches using a
dry, I made a start with the oil fine-pointed brush and a dark
paints. Opting for Wilder’s LS-03 brown colour from the Vallejo
(Medium Yellow), LS-39 (Arctic range. The inside of the boiler
Sea), LS-19 (Light Dust), and LS- was given a coat of Gunze
09 (Black Brown), I applied Sangyo’s 214 (Dark Iron). Once
these along the cargo-bed dry, this was buffed to achieve
panels with a fine-pointed a stainless steel appearance
brush. Then with a flat brush (photo 19).
moistened with turpentine, I Although not visible in my
blended the colours to vary the reference photo, the Red Cross
shades of the marking was most likely 20
separate repeated on the
cab roof to
avoid friendly
fire from
Luftwaffe
aircraft. The
marking was
from a Bison
Decals set
(photo 20).
Having
recently come
across AK
Interactive’s
‘Dust & Dirt
Deposits
Weathering 21
Set’ (ref. AK
4060), I
decided to
give this a
try, to
replicate
dirt
splashes
over the
lower part
of the
vehicle
(photos
21).
ICM Typ 2.5-32 (1.5 ton)
23 24
25 26
Availability
ICM 1/35 Typ 2.5-32 (1.5
ton) WWII German Light
Truck (ref. 35401) is
available from all good
model shops.
convey a busy but logical complete. With many thanks to

arrangement around the all who offered their advice and
kitchen (photos 23-26). And support during the project.
with that, the model was
Areas where these were felt with the food, the area was
to be overstated were simply filled with all manner of pots,
blended using a flat brush cooking pans, boxes and
moistened with thinner. I also utensils. Of course, each
used these products to recreate item needed to be
accumulated dirt over the individually painted
wheels, tyres and chassis. Once to achieve
dry, the effect was really quite maximum
pleasing, particularly with the
variety of tones.
The Dessert
Without doubt, the
most exciting part of
this project was
adding the various
items of food. These
were taken from several
sets, though due to lack
of space I was unable to
use everything in my
collection … oh well, perfect effect, and
excuse for tackling a similar carefully positioned to
subject in the future. Together

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LIT
AR
E
Gaso.Line Master Fighter
1/48 Kit AMX-30B2
José Luis López Ruiz

builds an AMX-30B2
from the First Gulf War.
T
he French army played a
significant role during the
First Gulf War as their units
covered the left flank of the
battlefront during the ground
assault of the allied forces to
liberate Kuwait in 1991. On 24
February Forces of the 6th
Light Armoured Division,
supported by the famous US
82nd American Division (the
‘Screaming Eagles’, a very
well-known airborne
division for any history
enthusiast), launched an
attack to capture an airfield
located some 140 km
inside Iraq’s defence lines.
This was defended by
elements of the 45th Iraqi
Mechanised Infantry
division. Once the airbase
was secured within the
first day, the two units
continued their mission
in order to control the
highways from
Baghdad into southern
Iraq.
During this operation,
a total of 44 AMX-30B2
were deployed within
the 4e Régiment de
Dragons. They fired 270 main gun rounds,
destroying ten tanks, three BMPs and The Kit
considerably lighter than
fifteen trucks with the help of the USAF’s A- Why do I like 1/48 scale? First,
contemporary tanks such as
10 Thunderbolt IIs. It’s important to note because I’m a really lazy modeller and a
the M-60, Leopard and T-55,
that the AMX-30’s design dates from the little bit impatient; I’m simply not able to
and was also faster (a top
early sixties! So, nearly thirty years after it work on the same project for years or even
speed of 65 Km/h), as well
was developed, this MBT was still able to several months. In this scale kits are
as wielding an effective 105
face the more recent Russian-designed (generally) easy to build and demand less
L/56 F1 gun. The tank’s
tanks, such as as the T-72, on a modern time for painting and weathering. 1/48 kits
robust design was
battleground! are the perfect choice for a modeller like
welcomed by many
In the early 1990s the AMX-30B2 was a me! Do not get me wrong: I don’t want to
countries who included
reliable and effective vehicle after the suggest that the kits are oversimplified and
this tank in their arsenals
modernization in the late 70s, equipped today the details in 1/48-scale kits are so
including Spain, Qatar,
with a new rangefinder and a low-light TV, impressive that often, with some careful
Cyprus, Venezuela, Arabia
a new and more efficient transmission, as painting and weathering, the results match
Saudi, Bosnia and the
well as a new 680hp engine. It was those achieved on their 1/35-scale
United Arab Emirates.
counterparts.

Kit AMX-30B2 1/48
1 2
1/48 Kit AMX-30B2
3 4
The French manufacturer resin as my cyanoacrylate

Gaso.line is the perfect simply didn’t work.
6 example of all the advantages I replaced the photoetched
of Quarterscale kits, even with handles included in the kit with
their resin kits which are copper wire and added finally
supposed to be difficult and the most daring but attractive
less attractive to build. This part of the kit: the huge
Paris-based firm provides the amount of stowage that can be
perfect balance between seen in the wartime pictures of
details and an trouble-free the tank. For this task I used
build. The multimedia kit some roll packs and accessories
includes a nicely cast and from different sources (Legend,
detailed complete hull and Verlinden, Plusmodel) but the
turret in white resin, the wheels main task was sculpting the
in plastic, (which are fixed with canvas usually located all over
the help of a screwdriver to the the real vehicle. For this task I
resin hull), vinyl tracks (a used Tamiya’s epoxy putty, a
weakness of the kit from my friendly material which you
point of view), a nice should mix and shape with the
photoetched set for the wire help of some talcum powder
7 mesh over the exhausts pipes, on your fingers and over all the
and some other details as well tools you use to create the
as some metal pieces to different shapes. Once rolled as
simulate the front lights. The thinly as possible, I cut and put
special white resin allows to it in place, simply letting
this brand to achieve excellent gravity do its work, helping it a
details on the surfaces, but it’s little bit with a mositened
not without its problems. First, paintbrush in order to increase
the resin colour itself: the awful the effect.
white hides most of the details,
which can finally be seen (and
admired) once you prime the Painting the Kit
kit. The second issue is that Identifying the exact colour
you´ll need a twio-part epoxy used on a World War II AFV is
glue (like Araldite) to glue this not always easy as we have to

Kit AMX-30B2 1/48
8 9
deal with black and white see in a few moments) Black &
historical pictures whose White Base. This set is all you 10
quality is not always the best. need to ensure a
nice result with an
easy to follow
step-by-step
So, when I thanks to a brief summary of
decided to make this the technique included in the
vehicle I thought that set. The photos will help you to
recent pictures in full follow the process: just aim for
colour would provide me a contrasting base (using a little
with a highway to bit of modulation, zenithal light
success in choosing the and other aesthetic effects)
right colour. I was that will help the base colour to
completely wrong! increase the depth of the kit
My reference pictures itself. Trying to do this using
were really chaotic. One of the base colour requires the
them showed an AMX-30 just modeller to highlight and
landed from a cargo ship. The darken the colour in the correct
sand colour of the wheels was and realistic way, which is a 11
completely different from the really difficult task if you’re not
general base colour of the hull, an expert on the theory of
which, in turn, was slightly colour. So working from dark to
different from the sand colour light, apply the different shades
of the turret. In other pictures, of grey until you finish with the
the sand colour varies from a maximum light using pure
pale sand to a yellowish sand. white. Small details are
The brown applied for the enhanced using a fine brush in
camo, also changed from a order to get the maximum
close to red brown colour to a contrast (photos 4-11).
dark chocolate tone. So, I did
what I always do in this Step 3: Preliminary base
situation: choose colours that
This was a new step for me.
look attractive!
Using a complementary colour
to the sand base colour, in this
Step 1: Prime case a a light blue, I applied a
As usual, it’s necessary to really thinned layer all over the 12
ensure that you have a kit using Ammo’s ‘Transparator’,
homogeneous base colour to a product that turns your
paint your kit despite the acrylic paints into an ink. So
different materials used to why blue? Because with any
build the kit. It’s also a nice colour and its opposite on the
surprise for your eyes as all the colour wheel, a complementary
details will come to life in front shade will become the perfect
of your eyes (photo 3). shadow in the most hidden
areas of your kit. The dark grey
for the maximum shade (never
Step 2: B&W Base pure black) works also, but
Using the Black & White Set using the complementary
from Ammo, I made my typical creates a more realistic dark
(actually, not so typical as you´ll effect. Just try it! (photo 12).
1/48 Kit AMX-30B2
13 14 15
16 17 18
in the more exposed and prone places you’ll apply them! Once
to chipping areas of the tank. the chips were finished, a nice
In order to get the layer of gloss varnish is the
best results do not perfect base for a wash all over
forget to wet the kit. I used Ammo’s Dark and
constantly Afrika Korps’ washes in order to
the enhance all the details of the
kits. For me this where a model
really begins to come
to life
Step
(photos 19-21).
4: Base
surface
color and Details
with water
I used a mix of Desert Sand Step 8: Accessories
(photos 15-17).
and Cremeweiss for the sand coat So sorry about this
colour. As I explained before, of gloss expression: “f*****g”
due to the crazy mess of varnish all over the Step 6: Decals accessories! I have applied and
colours seen on contemporary tank. Then, using Ammo As usually, the decals were painted accessories to dozens
photos, I simply decided to use Masking Putty, I prepared the carefully cut from the sheet and of models over the years, but
an attractive sand colour different shapes of the applied on the surface. Once in never have I painted so many in
mixing these two colours, camouflage pattern, which was place, do not forget to protect so tiny an area! It took many
which were mixed and applied easy as this putty bends easily them using a varnish. Some weeks and I felt tired just
with an airbrush cut 50/50 with once warm (the friction of your decals are delicate and can be painting accessories for 30
Transparator. All the lhighights finger will be enough) and it damaged during weathering minutes. I had to stop and
and shadows of the base colour adheres perfectly to the surface steps (photo 18). return many times over the
(over the blue) can be clearly (without peeling off or slipping course of a year to get the job
seen under the base colour. down over time). Once I had done. In some moments, I
applied the putty with the Step 7: Weathering
And, even more, the blue doubted I’d ever finish them.
preliminary base enhances the desired camouflage, I applied I started making ‘two layers’ But I did!
intensity and bright of the sand with my airbrush two coats of chipping, using a sand colour
Take note: accessories are
colour much more than a Black Ammo’s Chipping Fluid. Once for the more superficial
part of a vehicle and suffer
& White base alone. Details dry, I applied a mix of Red chippings and then a dark
exactly the same weathering
such as rivets, grabhandles and Brown and Chocolate over the brown for the deepest
agents. So, please, never forget
edges were were highlighted model. As I always look for scratches. Here less is more. Do
to add dust and dirt over them.
using a fine brush (photos contrasts, I deliberately used a you want an interesting tip?
And another piece of advice:
13-14). dark mix that would prove The next time you apply
once you paint all the
useful in the weathering steps. chipping on a model, just think
accessories, never forget to use
Once dry, using a toothpick and this: apply no more than fifty
Step 5: Camo a matt varnish all over them, as
a hard brush, I started to chips all over the tank. That will
tarps are never glossy
To begin with I applied a nice remove the camouflage colour make you really think about the
(photo 22).

Kit AMX-30B2 1/48
19 20 21
22 23 24
Step 9: Weathering (again) highlights and shadows were they’re used in an overly
The final step used added using oils (white and generous way. Please use them
oil paints and the Naples Yellow for the lights and in small and controlled areas to
classic dot dark brown and sepia for the highlight the contrast between
technique, I shadows) (photo 23). dusty and non-dusty areas
faded all The final touch were the (photo 24).
the base pigments, which were applied The story doesn’t end here
colours of and fixed them with Ammo’s however. Kits are never
the tank, fixer. Please beware, pigments finished, we just get fed up
including the are dangerous. They tend to with them. I go back over these
accessories. I used hide all the steps several times until I’m
different colours as ready to say goodbye.
yellow, red, blue, Another final piece of
sand, brown, sepia advice: when you
and so on in think that the
random patterns model is finished
which were just leave it Availability
blended on your
shelf for
Kit 1/48 AMX-30B2 (ref.
a few
MF48584K) is available from
Gaso.Line
(www.gaso.line.eu).
days and just

when
you’ve
nearly
forgetten
together that you had
using white painted it, look
spirit and a flat at it with new
brush. Repeat this step eyes and add the final
as many times as you consider touches. In my
necessary, sealing each step experience, the
with a matt varnish. Notice that difference between a
the oils never completely got previous good model and an excellent
dry and you can remove if work under a dull one is just these few days of
easily even weeks after being layer … of pigment! relaxation and clearing your
applied. Some further Pigments kill any contrast if mind.
BOLT ACTION KONFIKT ‘47
Mike Blake reviews Warlord Games’s fictional post-World War II games system.
T
here is a growing trend for a prototype device at the Los Alamos
‘What If’ rules and games Laboratory in New Mexico yielded a
which take a parallel view workable weapon in early 1944. It also,
of the world to create a new however, produced a side effect that
slant on past events, for changed history forever. At the test site, a
instance ‘A Very British Civil War’, Rift in the fabric of space formed at the
‘In Her Majesty’s Name’ heart of the detonation.’
Steampunk and others. Last The Allies try to end the war by using the
issue we took a look at Bolt atomic bomb, but not on Japan, on
Action, the World War II Germany! Fat Boy is dropped on Dresden –
wargames rules from Warlord and another Rift is created there. As at Los
Games. This time it is a follow- Alamos, this Rift stabilised over a matter of
up, looking at an ‘extension’ of days and both remained in place nearly
Bolt Action into the post-war four years later, in 1947. Strange
years. But all is not quite as it
seems – in this version of
events, the War has not
ended, there was no Allied
victory in 1945, Russia has
split from the other Allies
and the fighting has
dragged on.
Konflikt ‘47 is set in a
world very much like ours
until the middle years of
World War II. Then in 1943
Konflikt something happened which changed both
worlds forever; the development of atomic
’47 is a standalone game inspired by
weapons. But in the world of Konflikt ’47
Bolt Action, designed by Clockwork there was an extra dimension (no pun
Goblin Miniatures and produced by ‘US Heavy Infantry’ are typical of the new units
intended!) to the outcome of the testing introduced in Konfikt ’47, representing the
Warlord Games and Osprey Publishing. and use of these weapons. The rules ‘enhanced’ soldiers made possible by the Rifts.
Adding to the core Bolt Action rules, explain:
Konflikt ’47 allows the addition of ‘In 1943, the US Manhattan programme messages came through the Rifts which,
completely new types of units and under Robert Oppenheimer made rapid when eventually deciphered, reveal
models to existing 28mm Bolt Action progress in developing the joint scientific principles and theories which
armies and the creation of strange and Canadian/British atomic energy allowed Allies and Nazis to ‘make huge
programme into a weapon that could leaps in scientific and industrial research…’
interesting new forces set in an alternate
hopefully win them the war. The testing of The Rifts also emitted ‘exotic particles’
future in 1947. which had an effect on organic tissue and

on lithium, iron and silicon which enabled in the game. the game should fit the period,
the creation of ‘very effective electrical There are also a few changes which will, regardless of the changes we were
circuits and greatly accelerated… in the words of the author, ‘add to the making. The added tech would be clunky
computational processing technology.’ enjoyment of the game’ but Bolt Action and in keeping with many of the
As World War II continues beyond 1945, Players will already be familiar with the engineering
the battling countries develop new super core rules, because these are the same
weapons to give them a winning mechanics with ‘add-ons’ to cope with the
advantage. Exploiting new technologies extra weapons and equipment.
revealed, the Axis and Allied forces develop
new tanks and strange armoured walkers
to become the vanguard of their armies,
supported by new highly equipped or
terribly twisted troops. With the Soviet
Union seceding from the Allies the war
now becomes a three-way conflict!
Shermans with sci-fi weaponry,

what more could you ask for!
restrictions and principles of the time...

3. New Tech should complement not
replace existing tech. …another hard
principle to follow, the temptation to
The Allies too have their share of ‘Mech’: this is make new tech all-powerful is real, but
the M8 Grizzly Medium Assault Walker. we wanted to ensure that the game
could be played with entirely historical
Standalone Game forces at no detriment. …firstly to
Konflikt ’47 is designed as a standalone maximise peoples existing collections…
game using the Bolt Action core and secondly to speed up the ability to
Walkers are a staple of fictional, post-45
scenarios and Konfikt ’47 is no exception; here
mechanics, and units and vehicles are deliver the game with a vast range of
we have the ‘German Spinne Light interchangeable between the two. This is available models from the word go.
Panzermech’. great as it maximises player’s existing So what is different about Konflikt ’47,
collections and allows a variety of forces why not just make new units for Bolt
beyond the scope of the initial rulebook. Action? Chris continues, “We looked at
The Rulebook The writer, Chris Hale, has some interesting both options, but while Bolt Action is an
The rulebook is high quality full colour things to say about his approach to the excellent and fast-paced game, its very
and packed with inspiring photos and art concept of a World War II ‘What If?’ game: simplicity started to work against it when
work by Jon Cave and Russ Charles to feast 1. No magic or supernatural stuff. introducing new units that were very close
one’s eyes on and spur on the imagination, Although often a staple in this genre, we quarters focussed. The existing Close
and divided into three sections. The first were keen to remove this aspect… We Quarters rules just did not have enough
covers the background to the Konflikt ‘47 recognise the popularity of such depth for manipulation. So we changed
universe; the second the rules required to creatures as werewolves and zombies, them.”
play the game incorporating the but set ourselves the goal of achieving
technological advances found in the these without recourse to spells or
setting; and finally, Army Lists together similar. The Rules Changes
with variations to the Bolt Action National Close Quarters: the process remains
2. Diesel Punk not Sci-Fi. …the ‘look’ of
Army Lists to allow their inclusion and use similar; orders, declarations and defensive
fire are all still there (slightly modified – see These are not automatic, they must be mutations’. These latter appear in the
Reactions below), but actual assault now tested for and failure to execute could Germany’s Totenkorps (reanimated
contains two steps. Having made contact, leave the unit worse off, but the options corpses!), Schreckwulfen (‘werewolves’
the combatants can either fire with exist. This is a mechanism I am familiar from DNA enhanced humans), Nachtjagers
weapons at point blank range or resort to with, as we use it in our own home-grown (‘large infantry’ also from DNA enhanced
hand-to-hand combat. Dependant on the rules, and so I personally welcome it (and it humans), and Russia’s Siberian Terror
unit, they may excel at one or other of has potential for use in Bolt Action too). Squad (DNA enhanced immune to cold
these, but Ambush and Recce also fall into this and fire), Ursus Infantry (bear/human DNA
revised structure, in an attempt to add combination) and Daughters of the
tactical depth and decision making; Motherland (DNA enhanced female
activating a unit gives you the initiative for soldiers).
that moment, but leaving them As an infantry game, the introduction of
unactivated gives them flexibility. This heavily armoured squads, fast moving
change is not revolutionary but influences troops and jump pack infantry all need to
the consequences be carefully blended in so, or the core rules
would be unbalanced and might
even make
the basic
PBI
infantry
squad
obsolete.
Not having
played the
game yet, I
The US Army Starter set contains a mixture of
conventional and ‘enhanced’ soldiers and cannot say to
weaponry. The set also includes order dice, what extent
pinning markers and a rule book, all you need this has been
(apart, obviously, from an opposing force!) achieved, but
is a stated aim
rarely both and shooting comes before of the writer.
hand-to-hand.
Walkers
The result is that ‘hand-to-hand have the same
monsters’ will normally face point blank armour all
fire before getting their chance, reducing around their
them in number before they attack. It’s will Like everything from Warlord Games, chassis, so no
be a brave (foolish?) unit that charges an the production values are very high.
outflanking for better
un-pinned, unactivated target – as it would penetration and their armour is a point
be in the real world. Additionally, unlike of decisions and in the words of the author, lower than the comparable sized tank. So
Bolt Action, combat is not automatically ‘…adds to the feeling of being a while walkers are similar to traditional
fatal for one side; potentially both can commander’. It sounds like the writer’s aim tanks, they enable armour support to be
retire from the fight. Pin markers are not was to create a game that plays as taken into places traditional tanks were
removed in the process, so suppressing a smoothly as Bolt Action, but requires a disadvantaged: broken, tight urban terrain
target before assaulting it is now a really little more thought when activating units (think the streets of France and ruins of
good idea. in order to maintain initiative may well Stalingrad). In other words, the military
Reactions: if a unit has yet to be given an have been achieved. minds of 1947 have designed them for
order, when threatened it can choose from New Units urban fighting and close quarter
several response Reactions: for example, if The new stuff ranges from heavy infantry engagements and so the models and rules
shot at, it could return fire; if assaulted, it in personal armour to armoured ‘mech reflect this. Summed up: at range, early
could move to cover etc. walkers’ and includes some ‘human game – advantage tank; late game, in the

New Figures readily on hand during games and keep
The range of miniatures supporting this your full size hardback rule book in good
game is planned to expand. All the new nick. The large box contains: A5 softback
troop types, weapons and equipment Konflikt '47 rulebook; 1 M5A2 Coyote light
already are, or will be, supported by walker; 1 M4A9 Sherman-T medium tank;
Warlord Games figures and kits. Excellent 20 US infantry; 5 US Heavy Infantry; 12 pin
value ‘starter sets’ for the US (see below) markers; 6 six-sided dice; 6 Orders dice;
and German Rules Playsheet and even two 10 inch
cardboard rulers.
The infantry are the already available
bog standard but very nicely done Bolt
Action plastic GIs, with assembly
instructions. They are splendid 28mm
models, with lots of scope for creating
variations to the basic poses from the parts
And for the Germans: a Starter Army including
provided. The Coyote is one of the new
regular Panzergrenadiere alongside some weapons, of course, classified as a ‘light
‘Totenkorps’. walker’; ‘…manoeuvrable, well-armed
(right arm-mounted MMG, 2x fist, fixed
mix – advantage walker. forward-mounted HMG) and mechanically
New weaponry appears in the form of reliable’, the Coyote has ‘…proven
the Tesla Cannon, Schwerefeld Projektor (a adaptability…(for)…any combat role , from
‘gravity pulse’ weapon), and the Zvukovoy recce to urban assault.’ It comes as a crisply
Proyektor (a ‘shockwave’ weapon). There cast resin and metal kit complete with a
are full backgrounds and special rules for The US Army Starter set is bolstered 60mm round plastic base, and goes
every weapon. As an example, the Tesla by this M5A2 Coyote Light Walker. together easily to make a mean kick-ass
weaponry mounted on M4A9 Sherman-T’s, looking beast!
has two penetration values; the lower Armies are already out, whilst the British The Sherman is the basic plastic kit with
value used against infantry and artillery, and Soviets will be getting theirs later in the addition of a resin Tesla gun and a
higher value against vehicles. When the year. couple of small metal parts; a turret hatch
targeting infantry and artillery the weapon Plenty are promised over the next year, and ‘power pack’ which goes on the rear of
arcs to nearby targets. After a successful with possibly a look at the Pacific Theatre in the turret. Yep, it certainly looks suitably
hit, roll 1d6 and this number of additional more depth as the first full Konflikt weird with that strange barrel! The other
hits is inflicted on the unit - ouch! supplement. brand new items are the Heavy Infantry, a
concept explained in the rules. These
toughened-up GIs were developed after
Bolt Action 2 Conclusion the Germans version appeared, and are a
One obvious question is what impact Whether you will like Konflikt 47 will more advanced in allowing greater
will Bolt Action 2nd edition have on these hinge on two things: do you like Bolt manoeuvrability. They come as a five-man
rules? Konflikt ’47 is its own game, but the Action and do you like What-if’s? Dislike squad of metal figures with bodies, heads
writer believes the improvements in Bolt both, clearly they ain’t for you. Like one or and arms, allowing variability and are
Action 2 should simply add to the quality the other and they might just be the rules armed with assault rifles. All in all a great
of the Konflikt game as well. As the new and figures to get you into the other half. If package of goodies which will set the
Bolt Action rules were not available to him you enjoy both (like me), then it’s a perfect gamer off into the weird new world of
at time of going to print, it may be that a match! Konflikt ’47. I am really looking forward to
set of optional changes to Konflikt ’47 will my first game and seeing the new
be produced to ensure the ‘Bolt Action weapons and creations in action! There is
Family’ of rules stay as close to each other Konflikt ’47 US Army Starter Set an unboxing video at
as possible. Let’s take a look at the American set in https://store.warlordgames.com/collection
detail. First, a nice touch is that each starter s/konflikt-47/products/us-konflikt-47-
set comes with a small A5 soft cover set of starter-set
rules! These allow you to have the rules
FLAKPANZER GEPARD – TAKE TWO
Mike Shackleton reviews the Meng Models’ Gepard SPAAG.
through, which is impressive.Overall, this The hull parts are very nicely moulded in
looks like a really nice kit. conventional upper and lower parts. They fit
Like the Takom kit, the wheel spacing is together perfectly. The lower hull has the
correct! This is the most common question so Gepard's representative reinforcement
I just wanted to get that point out of the way. strakes under the left front hull (where the
The major complaint about the old Tamiya kit APU is housed) but none of numerous access
(and the Heller one too) was incorrect, plates and bolts are represented (Takom has
evenly-spaced wheels stations, just like the them). Another error on the hull top is the
Leopard 1. Gepard had an extended hull (80 hatch over the APU compartment at the
mm extra) and Meng have got it spot on with front. Meng have modelled this with parallel
S
2.3mm more between the third and fourth sides front and rear, but the rear edge should
o now we have two! Following fairly
wheel stations. be angled (which Takom have done). Clear
swiftly from Takom's Gepard, we now
photos of this are hard to find, and it
have another from Meng, the As mentioned above, Gepard A1 and A2
probably won't be that noticeable once the
Flakpanzer Gepard A1/A2 (ref. TS-030). Both did not wear side skirts in Bundeswehr
of these new models have their own turret is in place.
service, so the suspension is on full view.
individual problems, some of which most of Meng have thankfully redesigned the The upper hull has the full-width glacis
you will say is nit-picking. Whichever kit is suspension compared to the hidden-behind- plate and the extended rear end that gives it
bought, you will have a very good model of skirt parts on their Leopard 1A3 and 1A5 kits. a completely different appearance to the
Gepard in your collection, certainly a big The swing arms now have the correct Leopard 1 hull. Non-slip patches are
advance on what has gone before. angles (they were flat before). They also have represented nicely. Another difference are
separate facing plates, like they did on their the circular inlet rings on the rear decking
Leopard 2s, which makes clean up easier and which were only ever used - apart from on all
Comparison Gepards - on Australian AS1, Greek GR1 and
adds a little detail, something totally missing
Inevitably, you will be wondering how the previously. Oh yes - they still have torsion Turkish T1 Leopards. This is moulded
Takom and Meng kits compare. I am not bars. Return roller mounts, bump stops and separately and inserted from inside the hull
going to do a direct comparison, but I have shock absorbers are all separate parts. and is topped off with a nice etch grille.
made comments throughout this review. The Unfortunately, Meng seem to have copied The grille that covers the APU exhaust pipe
Takom kit has already been reviewed in the the design over from their Leopard 1s for the down the left side is a separate part which
August issue of MMI so please read them road wheel outer faces which are still not looks OK until you realise that the
both and you will be able to make your own right. The tyres are also still too thick. The perforations are circular and should be
informed decisions. wheels have polycaps so the rear faces are square. Takom managed this on their kit,
incorrect, though better than previous even casting it on the hull itself. I checked the
What is in the box? attempts. There is even some bolt detail, but old Eduard 35120 set for the Tamiya Gepard,
it is still not completely right. and that photoetch will definitely not work
The box top itself carries the artwork of a
The kit's return rollers are all identical. This here. Curiously, photoetch is supplied by
Bundeswehr Gepard A2, except these
is wrong as there are two distinct styles. All Meng to be added over the APU inlet, so why
machines NEVER wore side skirts in
have the same tyres. However, the first and didn't Meng do the same thing on the
Bundeswehr service. Side skirts were
third rollers (which support the outer track exhaust pipe cover?
dropped in 1978, two years after entering
service. These parts have no place in this kit only) have thin metal rims. The second and The hull grating that surrounds the turret
especially as the marking options are fourth rollers (which support the inner track) base is moulded very nicely with perforations
Bundeswehr A1 and A2 only - both post- have much thicker metal rims. The hubs that go clear through the piece (Takom's
1978 versions. Meng, by including side skirts, should also be two different types. The does not). No need for photoetch here. The
are proving they haven't done their second and fourth rollers have their hubs rear exhaust grilles on the hull sides are slide-
homework or are being advised incorrectly, recessed into the wheels. They do not stick moulded into the hull sides, so they have
which is more likely. out otherwise they would clash with the nice depth to them, unlike their fairly awful,
track's guide teeth. Takom made a similar previous Leopard 1 grilles. Meng seem to
What we have in the box itself has virtually
mistake with the rims, but at least their hubs have learned from Leopard Workshop here!
nothing in common with their previous
were different. One minor point is that there are three
Leopard kits, apart from the tracks. Parts
count is reasonably low which means a fairly The kit sprockets have 15-bolt hubs which curved bilge exits under the hull sponson
simple build (apart from the now-familiar is incorrect for Gepard. Many Leopard 1s edges and all of these are missing (Takom
Meng individual link tracks) but a higher were upgraded with 15-bolt hubs but this has them all). They are under each exhaust
parts count than the Takom kit. Detail on the didn't seem to happen with Gepard - unless grille and under the crew heater exhaust on
parts is good - sharp and crisp. The are someone knows differently. They should the right. The rear hull extension has some
polycaps in the wheels so the rear faces of have 8-bolt hubs. For the accuracy buffs, issues, but most will accept them as OK. At
the wheels are inaccurate, though much Leopard Workshop’s road wheels (ref. LW001- least it is not as bad as the Takom extension
improved compared to Meng's Leopard 1 1) and suspension upgrade (ref. LW010) which has bigger issues after comparing the
wheels! Photoetch is kept to a minimum so corrects all of these faults if you feel that way two kits. The Meng problems are small and
the APU exhaust grilles on the left-hull side inclined. Sorry, like Takom, this is the worst concern fictitious locks on the two hatches,
are moulded in plastic, for example. Some part of an otherwise good kit. Leopard the hatches should have constant radius
plastic parts have perforations moulded clear Workshop will soon have 8-bolt hubs rounded corners and the lights should have
available in a new track set (ref. LW036). an angled step under the reflectors. The

The decals provide The beautifully moulded turret, complete Again, some first-rate moulding
markings for four vehicles. with anti-slip texture and weld seams! evident on the gun barrels.
pencil lights are also very anaemic. The Needless to say, both radars are fully allow free movement. On the rear face are
toolboxes on the hull sides are nicely done rotatable as well.The tracking radar has some photoetch tool brackets which a
with slide-moulding being utilised to give polycaps to keep it mobile vertically and a strange cartoon character shows you how to
them a non-slip texture on the lids. The front key at the bottom of the turret on which it place in Chinese! Takom supplied these
mudflaps are also slide-moulded in one rotates 360 degrees horizontally. The radar moulded in place on their turret rear,
piece, so no nasty joints to clean up, just a rotates backwards for protection when it is in complete with tools. Meng does not supply
tiny moulding seam. travel position. the tools, just the brackets.
As you may have guessed, photoetch in The turret-top panoramic sights are The search radar itself is more complex
this kit is kept to a minimum, but what there beautifully moulded and have separate clear than the one supplied by Takom. This one
is is used to top off the rear deck grille, the windows and doors. The infra-red includes four linkages behind the radar pick-
APU intake, two perforated plates on the rangefinder on top of the radar has some tiny up that sits in front of the large reflector. The
turret sides and some straps and fittings. Just parts. The sight window (T3) is clear plastic, interior of the turret rear is then furnished
the bare necessities, which is fine in this case. but on top of this are four tiny photoetched with numerous parts to simulate the
Unfortunately, chains are not supplied for the parts - two circular covers and two arms - so electronic equipment housed in there. The
smoke launchers. I don't see it mentioned in you can model the window covered or instructions only provide very vague colour
the instructions anywhere, but there is a uncovered. There is very little photoetch on information, but there is a link there are
large circular piece of etch (W18) that can the turret and what there is, is very simple. A images online at the Prime Portal site.
only be a wheel mask to help with painting notable omission are chains for the smoke All that remains to finish the A1 model is to
the roadwheel tyres. Driver periscopes are launchers. I have mentioned the Optical add the gun pods to the sides of the turret by
clear plastic and so are the headlight lenses. Target Indicator which clips on to either glueing the two pivots together inside the
The rear view mirrors have self-adhesive panoramic sight. You don't often see this turret shell and positioning the rear box
mirrored film which is a nice touch. The T- fitted in photos, but it is here if you want it. open or close to show off the interior as
hooks and eyes at both ends of the hull are Only bases and bottom sections of the aerials desired. How is the A2 version different? The
still single piece. The protective cover over are included but most Gepards (A1 and gun choice is different. Once again we can
the driver's head is also nicely moulded with certainly all A2) would have used SEM 80/90 use the MPG practice barrel or a different
perforations clear though. Maybe it could be aerials. Like the hull, all periscopes are clear barrel which has a more complex muzzle
sanded thinner to be more representative. If plastic as is an optional convoy light on a reference system which is made up of three
deciding to build the more modern Gepard short mast. The main body of the gun pods plastic and one etched parts - each side. The
A2, you will need to mount the rear storage are slide-moulded very nicely and completed tool box on the hull rear is added, as we have
box. Gepard has no external tools mounted with eight other parts before mounting the already mentioned. On the turret rear, we can
apart from the sprocket T-bar across the hull gun of choice. ignore the photo-etch tool brackets and
rear. Nylon string is supplied for the tow build up the cooling system boxes for the
The guns themselves - and there
cable with separate plastic eyes, and these crew and electronics before adding these. On
are two options here - are slide-moulded in
are better replaced with aftermarket items. top of the turret, a double storage box is
one piece! No separate halves here. There are
The front mudflaps do have to be added and added.
some mould seams to clean up, but this will
will need the tubular extension at the front of
be very easy with a sharp blade and/or
the skirts (see step 15 in the instructions) cut
sanding stick. Obviously the muzzles are Conclusion
off and added to the top/side edge of the
hollow. The alternative guns are the normal
mudflaps. A new Gepard has taken a long time to
service 35 mm Oerlikon cannon with the four
come around. We had the same situation
'fins' on the outside, and an alternative which
with Leopard 1 until Meng and then Takom
The Turret has a simple perforated muzzle which was
released different versions. These Leopards
In the instructions, work on the two turret used when firing blank practice ammunition.
were a little below par, so what about this
types for A1 and A2 is clearly separated - This was used on both A1 and A2 versions
Gepard? Now we have two very good Gepard
steps 18 to 27 for A1 and 28 to 34 for A2. This and can be clearly seen in photos of both
models. Meng have realised the differences
is much clearer than Takom's instructions. versions. Unfortunately, the 'perforations' in
between two of the versions, A1 and A2, but
Some removal of bolts and other raised the simpler muzzle are semi-circular and have not included the first version which is a
detail is necessary with a sharp knife for each poorly defined. They should be circular like shame (the one with skirts!!). Parts count is
particular version, so choose your option the other more complex muzzle which has relatively low which means it looks easy to
early on - and be careful what you remove as been moulded correctly right next to it on build, though more complex than the
you go along. I have to say that the turret is the sprue. This is curious. However, some competition from Takom. It is crisply
more impressive than the hull with very few patient drilling will improve them no end - or moulded with a lot of superb detail. It is a
problems that I can see. Generally speaking, maybe the after market will come to the quantum leap over the old Tamiya kit. The
it has some nice features like turret-top sights rescue. biggest problem is the suspension/running
held by polycaps so they are rotatable, an The box at the rear of the turret, the power gear which still has problems, though most
optional Optical Target Indicator and the supply box (the part which swings open), might think I am being too picky. If I was to
back of the turret can be posed open with a also holds the pivoting base unit for the give the edge to either kit, I would say that
reasonable amount of interior detail. search radar. All the pivots use polycaps to Meng's interpretation is the better one.
A round up of the latest military titles
Title: Panzerwrecks 20: Ostfront 3 photos of German armour. Fans
Author: Lee Archer and of late-war armour are treated
Kamen Nevekin to numerous shots of
Publisher: Panzerwrecks Panthers, Panzer IVs,
ISBN: 978-1-90803-2-140 Jagdpanzer, SPWs, StuG,
Price: £17.99 (pb) Flakpanzer and
A
armoured cars.
fter a bit of a hiatus, it’s a pleasure to
Several have
review another volume in the highly
been published
acclaimed Panzerwrecks series.
before (in the
Volume 20 in the series is the third to
old Frontline
concentrate on knocked out German
Illustration title on Lake
armour on the Eastern Front, and its 96
Balaton, for instance), but a good
pages contain 98 black-and-white images
number are new to me. The captions
and, a new feature, six specially
are excellent: where possible units
commissioned pieces of artwork
and locations are identified and the
interpreting the photos for the benefit of
cause of the AFV’s destruction
modellers. The book begins with an
noted. The colour plates are a really
interesting and informative discussion of the
valuable addition and the full
efficacy of the IL-2 Sturmovik as a ground-
colour interpretations of the
attack aircraft. Kamen Nevekin examines the
photos are an inspiration to
findings of a special Red Army commission
modellers. Overall this is another
sent to investigate the 430 German AFVs
superb volume from Lee Archer
destroyed around the Lake Balaton area in
and his team and our thanks go
the spring of 1945. Of these number more
to them for the review copy
than half (239) were destroyed by their own
(www.panzerwrecks.com).
crews, and aircraft accounted for 53 kills.
David Grummitt
The meat of the book, of course, are the
Title: How to Paint Jimenez’s own account of painting and

1:72 Military Vehicles weathering an S Model BMD-2 (a tiny model
Author: Alex Clark, Jan Moravik et al in this scale) is probably the fullest account
Publisher: AMMO Mig Jimenez and also excellent. What I found interesting
ISBN: 843-2-07406-0-192 is the authors’ willingness to use
Price: €16.50(pb) conventional brushes, rather than the
T
airbrush, to lay down camouflage colours.
he range and quality of Small-Scale Overall, this is nicely produced and
armour kits has improved inspirational volume.
exponentially over the last
decade or so, and some of the
world’s finest modellers have
devioted themselves to working
in ‘Braille Scale’. The guys at
AMMO Mig Jimenez, as part of
their Weathering Magazine
special series, have put
together the work of some of
these modellers in a ‘how-to’
guide to modelling, painting
and weathering 1/72-scale
armour. The book begins with
a very useful introduction to
the some of the major kit
manufacturers in this scale, from the At €16.50 it’s
simplicity of the Armorfast range to the competively priced and
complex multi-media kits produced by 1/35-scale modellers, as well
Modelcollect. The subjects covered range as Smaller-Scalers, will find
across periods and approaches to much of interest in its pages.
modelling. The high point is probably Alex Our thanks to the guys at
Clark’s rusting T-62 from Modelcollect, but AMMO for the review copy
Jan Moravek’s Panzer IV Ausf. D., Artur (www.migjimenez.com).
Wachkowski’s Tiger I and the two models (a
Scud-D and E-75) are also superb. Mig David Grummitt

A round up of the latest military titles
Title: German World War II throughout the war in a
Reenacting: The Wehrmacht in variety of different
Living History theatres, and includes
Author: Scott Lee Thompson infantry, vehicles
Publisher: Schiffer Military Publishing (armoured and softskins)
ISBN: 978-0-76434-8-891 and aircraft. The images of
Price: £40(hb) AFVs are particularly,
R
including some impressive
eenactors are a regular feature of
replica vehicles (among
model shows and ‘Living History’ is a
them a Tiger I) as well as
large and popular hobby, attracting
some real vehicles (most
thousands across the world. This book
notably a King Tiger). The
features some of the best reenacment
scenes cover combat, rest,
groups around the world to showcase the
transport, and medical
uniforms, weaponry and vehicles of the
provision. Even if reenacment
German armed forces of World War II. The
is not your thing, this is a copy,
book is beautifully produced, with lavish
beautiful book and contains some it’s available from all good booksellers.
colour photographs printed on high-quality
inspirational images. Highly recommended.
paper. The book covers German forces David Grummitt
Our thanks to the publishers for the review
Title: Danish Leopard 1A5DK1 change in the operation for the Danish
(Model Foto Focus) Army. In the lifetime of the 1A3 version, the
Author: Kenneth Østergaard task of the army was to participate in the
Publisher: Trackpad Publishing defence of the country and NATO. In the
Price: £19.50 lifetime of the 1A5DK version, the army had
T
an increasing number of international
his is the fourth in the series of Model assignments, largely peace-keeping
Foto Focus reference books and missions, in the Balkans.
includes colour full-view and
walkaround captioned photos of a Leopard Written by Kenneth
1 that spent many years on peace-keeping Ostergaard,
duties with IFOR, KFOR and SFOR. From with many of walkaround
February 1976, Denmark started to receive his own captioned photographs, making
their first Leopard 1A3DKs, and by 1978 all photographs for a compelling collection of
had been supplied. Towards the end of the of a preserved images. These images are taken
1980s, the Danish Army had to realise that vehicle with a modeller’s eye for detail
an upgrade of the Leopards could no longer (belonging to a and are excellent. It’s beautifully
be postponed and a programme to upgrade preservation produced and a invaluable
to 1A5DK standard was started. Whereas the society he is a addition to the library of
1A3 version had lived a relatively unchanged keen member anyone tackling one of the Leopard 1 kits
life during its fifteen years, the 1A5 version of ), the book is out there. It’s available from the publisher
was to have fifteen years with many compiled into an attractive album. Its 100 (www.trackpadpublishing.com).
changes. The main reason for this was a pages include some 350 colour full-view ‘In-
the Field’ images and a large number of David Grummitt
Title: HMMWV (HUMMER) in IDF has filled with the IDF, book is characterised by Desert Eagle’s
Service (IDF Armor Series 16) beginning with its most superb production
Author: Michael Mass & Adam O’Brien widespread service as a standards: high quality,
Publisher: Desert Eagle Publishing scout and beautifully crisp photos
ISBN: 978-9-65770-0-020 reconnaissance vehicle, taken with the modeller in
Price: £24.99 before moving through mind. This is the ultimate
T
the M997 ambulance, guide to the Hummer in
he latest release in the highly- the M1035 Medical IDF service and as such is
acclaimed IDF Armor Series by Desert Evaluation vehicle, the highly recommended to all
Eagle Publishing deals with one of the TOW/Orev Launcher, fans of these modern
most ubiquitous of military vehicles – the the M998 Single Cabin, stalwart and the IDF. Our
4x4 High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled the GIL Missile Team, thanks to Wendy at the
Vehicle, better known as the Hummer. The Armored Patrol and Military and Aviation Book
Hummer has served with the IDF for some Scout version, as well Centre
twenty years now and this 84-page book, as its more mundane (www.aviationbooks.com)
containing no fewer than 206 photos, is an role as a technical who kindly supplied the
excellent account of their service. The book support vehicle and review copy.
goes through the various roles the Hummer trainer for tank crews. As ever, the David Grummitt

The International Plastic Modellers Society (UK)
Presents
2016
Saturday 12th November 2016 Sunday 13th November 2016

Open: 10.00am to 6.00pm Open: 10.00am to 4.00pm
Advance
Tickets
Admission: IPMS Members FREE available
f
Adults: £10.00 each day ~ 2 Day Pass: £15.00 1 st Octob rom
er - see
smwshow
Concessions: £7.00 per day Children under 16: FREE .com
for detail
s
The International Centre Telford Shropshire TF1 4JH
Almost 400 exhibitors in 2016, including over 190 trade stands and 200 model clubs
The World’s Greatest Model Show

Incorporating the IPMS (UK) National Competition
Have you seen our Facebook page - if you search Military
Modelcraft Magazine on Facebook you will come across our
very active and hopefully useful and interesting page, below
are some of the images that we have placed over the past
month.
We currently have 38.359 LIKES this is larger than any other
modelling magazine please like our page and tell your
friends….
This is your Facebook page and your opportunity to show
cause your work and dedication of your latest builds on our
pages, tanks, figures, dioramas interesting historic facts and
pictures and video’s you may have… simply e-mail your
pictures with any words etc to e-mail tom@regallitho.co.uk We
may even use in our magazine pages as well. David and I are
always open to new ideas for our Facebook page or the
magazine so do contact me.
All our advertisers can place information on our Facebook
page another reason for advertisers to join our team and
advertise with us we have a weekly reach of over 80.000….
a great opportunity to showcase your new items at a cost
effective price and reach a truly world wide audience.
The images we select are not chosen by David and his team,
so bare in mind I am not a modeller and I choose the images
that I like, as always I am amazed by the quality of the builds no
matter what it is and a personal favourite of mine are the
dioramas you build… the reason I do not build models apart
from sticking my rather clumsy fingers together and putting
the wrong bits in the wrong place, I would never come close to
any of the models I post., so I will stick to my hobby of
supporting the Premier League Champions (now that has got a
few of you) and leave the exceptional quality builds to you girls
and guys….
Lets get our page to 40.000 by the next issue so do share and
like our page contact me for any ideas you would like to see on
our page and in the magazine and thank you to David and his
team for putting together another fantastic issue and not
forgetting you our readers for buying your copy of Military
Modelcraft International.
Happy modelling and let's see your build on our Facebook
page and remember LIKE & SHARE with your friends.
Tom Foxon
Group PR and Marketing Director.
e-mail tom@regallitho.co.uk

Academy AC13298 Ace ACE72175 AFV Club AF35004 AFV Club AF35031
1:35 US Army M1A2 Tank 100% New Too 1:72 TR-3E1 Ukrainian armoured person- 1:35 M35A2 2 1/2 ton Truck 1:35 M40 Self Propelled Gun
£29.99 nel carrier £14.99 £28.99 £36.99
AFV Club AF35230 AFV Club AF35235 AFV Club AF35347 AFV Club AF35S87 1:35 HEMTT M983 Trac-
1:35 M60A2 Patton Tank 1:35 Rommel's Mammoth DAK AEC Ar- 1:35 Husky Vehicle Mounted Mine Detec- tor & M901 Launching Station Patriot PAC-
£54.99 moured Command Vehicle £52.99 tor Mk III £53.99 2 (Trumpeter kit) £119.99
Drago DN3567 Dragon DN6248 Dragon DN6465 Dragon DN6495

1:35 IDF Magach 3 1:35 German Sd.Kfz.251/22 Ausf.D 1:35 Sd.Kfz.184 Elefant with Zimmerit 1:35 Sd.Kfz.184 Ferdinand Kursk 1943
£49.99 £54.99 2 A7 £55.99 £54.99
Dragon DN6721 Dragon DN6761 Dragon DN6827 Dragon DN75020

1:35 5cm PaK38 auf Pz.Kpfw.II (Sf) 1:35 Sd.Kfz.3a 'Maultier' Half Track Truck 1:35 Sd.Kfz.186 Jagdtiger woth 12.8cm Pak 1:6 US 1/4 ton 4x4 Willys Jeep
£59.99 £47.50 80 (L/66) £59.99 £114.99
ICM ICM35363 1:35 Pz.Kpfw.VI Ausf.B Meng Model MMTS-028 Mini Art MT35181 Mini Art MT35187
Konigstiger with Henschel Turret 1:35 Russian T-72B3 Main Battle Tank 1:35 Russian Su-122 (Early Production) 1:35 Russian SU-85 Mod.1943 (Mid Pro-
(late production) £27.99 £49.99 £39.99 duction) with Full Interior £44.99
Roden ROD730 UM-MT UMMT667 Unimodel UNIM270 Unimodel UNIM440

1:72 Opel Blitz Kfz.385 Tankwagen 1:72 Armored car DTR-casemate on rail- 1:72 Pz.Kpfw.III Ausf.H 1:72 Russian T-34 Assault tank with how-
£14.99 way platform. £17.99 £10.99 itzer U-11 £11.99

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October 2016 · Volume 20 · Number 11

order via our

Guideline Publications Subscription

Distributed to the UK and

Trade Sales to Model Shops

4 Military Modelcraft International

68 WoW! - World of Wargames ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS

... plus much more! Hannants

Our main feature this

David Grummitt Editor

6 Military Modelcraft International

8 Military Modelcraft International

A typical review might show how details can be added to replace

painted kit can look like.

of a State Museum in Leningrad, (St. AMPS has a team of expert

Italeri 1/35 David Grummitt

12 Military Modelcraft International

Another re-boxing from

14 Military Modelcraft International

16 Military Modelcraft International

Airfix AGV Models AGV Models AGV Models

18 Military Modelcraft International

Dragon Dragon Italeri Italeri

Italeri Italeri Italeri Italeri

Scale: 1/56 Scale: 1/56 Scale: 1/56 Scale: 1/56

Meng Model Meng Model Meng Model Meng Model

Meng Model Milicast Milicast Milicast

Milicast MiniArt Model-Miniature Model-Miniature

20 Military Modelcraft International

Panda Hobby Panda Hobby SKP Model Soga Miniatures

Scale: 1/35 Scale: 1/35 Scale: 1/35 Scale: 1/35

Soga Miniatures Soga Miniatures Soga Miniatures Soga Miniatures

22 Military Modelcraft International

The competition took place in a bright, airy display

24 Military Modelcraft International

26 Military Modelcraft International

Tanks of the Great War

A selection of model assembly kits by Emhar and Takom

I:72 I:72 I:72

Mk IV “Male” WWI Heavy Battle Mk V “Hermaphrodite” WWI

Mark Chisholm tackles Trumpeter’s R-145BM.

28 Military Modelcraft International

The kit afforded a good

Note the difference between the

Basic construction complete.

Given the combination of plastic and PE components, it was

30 Military Modelcraft International

Mr.Color 136 (Russian Green – 2)

Masking for the hard-edged camouflage scheme was carried

With the second colour applied, the mask was removed

To replicate the build-up of mud

Using a selection of diluted acrylics, I applied these to depict

The wheels were

Enamel-based weathering products are currently very popular,

32 Military Modelcraft International

the inner portions of the paints, and added to replicate

Final touches. A graphite stick was used to

The radio frame and

34 Military Modelcraft International

James Kinnear takes a look at some

Taking detail photographs the

The Red Square parades are Photographing armoured

The ‘Kurganets’-25, built in the city of Kurgan by the same plant