M11/39 Italian Medium Tank kit in 1/72 scale - IBG model. The M11/39 was an Italian medium tank designed and built in the late 1930s. It was one of the first medium tanks produced by Italy and was mainly used during World War II, particularly in the early stages of the conflict in North Africa. Main features of the M11/39: Design and Development: The name "M11/39" is derived from the Italian classification of the time: "M" stands for "Medio" (medium), "11" indicates the weight in tons (11 tonnes), and "39" refers to the year the design was adopted, 1939. The tank was designed as an infantry support vehicle, relying on outdated design concepts, such as the arrangement of the cannon in casemate (fixed in the hull) rather than in a fully rotating turret. Armament: The main armament consisted of a 37 mm Vickers-Terni cannon, mounted in the forward hull and with a limited angle of fire. The M11/39 was also equipped with two 8-mm Breda Model 38 machine guns mounted in a small revolving turret. Armor: The armor varied between 6 and 30 mm thick, offering limited protection, particularly against enemy anti-tank guns and tanks. Propulsion and Mobility: It was powered by a 105-hp SPA 8T diesel engine, which enabled it to reach a maximum speed of about 32 km/h on the road. The M11/39 had an operational range of about 200 km on road, but was limited in rough terrain because of its poor mobility. Operational use: The M11/39 was mainly employed during the early stages of the North African campaign, beginning in 1940, especially in battles in Libya against British forces. However, the tank quickly proved obsolete compared to Allied tanks, with its limited armament and inadequate armor failing to compete effectively against the more modern British tanks. Legacy: Because of its limitations, the M11/39 was soon replaced by more modern and powerful tanks, such as the M13/40, which was a significant improvement in terms of armament, armor, and mobility. In summary, the M11/39 was an attempt by Italy to develop a medium tank, but its technical characteristics and antiquated design quickly made it outdated on the battlefield. Nevertheless, it represents an important milestone in the development of Italian tank technology during World War II.
IBG 72564 I.A.R 80 Early-Gathering Storm 1941 aircraft kit in 1/72 scale - IBG model. TheI.A.R. 81C is an improved version of the I.A.R. 80 fighter produced in Romania during World War II. While the I.A.R. 80 was initially conceived as a fighter, later versions, such as the I.A.R. 81, were modified to also serve as a fighter-bomber and interceptor. Main features of the I.A.R. 81C: Development and Design: The I.A.R. 81C was one of the last and most advanced versions of the I.A.R. 80/81 series. It was developed to improve the combat capabilities of the aircraft, which was becoming obsolete compared to more modern fighters. The main difference between the I.A.R. 81 and the I.A.R. 80 was the integration of attachment points under the wings for carrying bombs or rockets, making it suitable for ground attack missions. The I.A.R. 81C version was equipped with 20 mm guns (Mauser MG 151/20 cannons), which represented a significant increase in firepower compared to the previous versions, which were armed mainly with machine guns. Engine: It mounted an IAR K14-IV C36 radial engine with a maximum power output of about 960 hp, derived from the French Gnome-Rhône engines. Performance: Top speed: About 550 km/h. The I.A.R. 81C's speed and maneuverability were comparable to other fighters of its generation, although it was surpassed by newer Allied and German models. The C version was optimized for interception and ground attack missions. Role during 1944: The term "Great Air Battles of 1944" refers to a series of significant air battles in which I.A.R. 81C was involved, particularly during the final stages of the war. In 1944, Romania was under increasing pressure from Allied air forces, particularly the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF), which conducted heavy strategic bombing raids on Romania's oil infrastructure, crucial to the German war effort. The I.A.R. 81C was employed in the defense against these bombings, participating in intense air battles against Allied bombers and their escort fighters, such as P-51 Mustangs. Effectiveness and Limitations: Despite improvements, the I.A.R. 81C was now outdated by more modern technologies. Romanian pilots had to face much superior opponents in terms of performance and numbers. However, the I.A.R. 81Cs and their pilots showed courage and determination during the air battles of 1944, managing to achieve some victories against superior enemy forces. Historical significance: The I.A.R. 81C represents one of Romania's final efforts to maintain a competitive air force during World War II. The "Great Air Battles of 1944" mark one of the most intense and dramatic periods of Romanian participation in the conflict, with I.A.R. 81C as the protagonist in desperate defenses against Allied bombardment. In summary, the I.A.R. 81C was an advanced version of the Romanian I.A.R. 80 fighter, used mainly during the major air battles of 1944 to defend Romania from Allied air attacks.
IBG 72564 I.A.R 80 Early-Gathering Storm 1941 aircraft kit in 1/72 scale - IBG model. TheI.A.R. 80 was a single-engine fighter produced in Romania during World War II. It was designed and built by the Romanian aircraft industry IAR (Industria Aeronautica Româna). Although Romania was a country with limited industrial resources compared to the major powers of the time, the I.A.R. 80 proved to be an effective and competitive fighter, especially in the early years of the war. Main features of the I.A.R. 80: Design and Development: The I.A.R. 80 was developed in the late 1930s, with the first test flight in 1939. The fighter was based on a metal monocoque structure with low wings and a radial engine, offering a good balance between speed, maneuverability and firepower. Engine: In early versions, such as the I.A.R. 80 "Early," the fighter was equipped with an IAR K14 engine, based on the French Gnome-Rhône 14K engine, with power ranging from 870 to 960 hp, depending on the version. Armament: Initial versions of the I.A.R. 80 were armed with four 7.92 mm machine guns mounted in the wings. In later versions, the armament was upgraded with the addition of 20 mm guns and bombs. Performance: Top speed: About 510 km/h (in initial versions). Operating radius: Varying, but generally around 700 km. The I.A.R. 80 was known for its good maneuverability, which allowed it to compete with contemporary fighters, although it was not as fast or powerful as some of its more modern opponents. Operational use: 1941 Campaign: The term "Gathering Storm 1941" probably refers to the first war operations in which the I.A.R. 80 was involved, such as the invasion of the Soviet Union during Operation Barbarossa. The I.A.R. 80 was mainly used for air superiority missions, bomber escort, and ground attacks. The I.A.R. 80 fought in various theaters of operation, from Eastern Europe to the Balkans, and also in the defense of Romania against Allied bombing. Historical significance: The I.A.R. 80 represents one of the most significant efforts of the Romanian aviation industry and was a point of pride for Romania during the war. Although it could not compete with more modern fighters such as the Spitfire or Bf 109 in the later stages of the conflict, the I.A.R. 80 proved a respectable opponent, especially in the early years of the war. In summary, the I.A.R. 80 "Early-Gathering Storm 1941" is a reference to the early versions of this Romanian fighter, which actively participated in the early stages of World War II, demonstrating the ingenuity and ability of a country with limited resources to develop a competitive fighter.
Kit FV4101 Charioteer Mk.VIIB in Finnish service in 1/72 scale - IBG model. Overview of FV4101 Charioteer Mk. VIIB- Origin and Development: - The Charioteer was designed and produced in the United Kingdom as a tank destroyer, i.e., a vehicle specialized in destroying enemy tanks. It was developed at the end of World War II and used mainly in the years immediately following.- Design and Armament: - Main Armament: The FV4101 Charioteer Mk. VIIB was equipped with a 105-mm gun, a modified version of the Royal Ordnance L7 gun, which was very effective against opposing tanks. - Armor: The Charioteer's armor was designed to protect the vehicle, although it was lighter than the heavy battle tanks of the time. - Propulsion: The tank was equipped with a gasoline engine that gave it a relatively high speed for a tank of its class, thus improving its mobility on the battlefield.- Operational Role: - The Charioteer was used primarily for anti-tank support tasks. Its main mission was to destroy enemy tanks and protect infantry units and other vehicles from armored threats. - It was effective in both defenseand attack, operating mainly in the context of armored battles and in contexts where fire superiority was crucial.- Service: - World War II and Postwar: Although the Charioteer was developed at the end of the war, it entered operational service soon after the conflict. It was used mainly by the British armed forces and some other nations that acquired the vehicle after the war. - Legacy: After World War II, the Charioteer was gradually replaced by more modern and advanced vehicles, but it remained in use until the 1960s in some armed forces.The FV4101 Charioteer Mk. VIIB is an example of how military vehicles can rapidly evolve to meet the needs of modern conflicts and how armaments and technologies adapt to the challenges of the battlefield.
Aircraft kit 90/53 90mm Italian Anti Aircraft Gun in 1/72 scale - IBG Model. The 90/53 Model 1939 was an Italian anti-aircraft gun used during World War II. Produced by the Ansaldo company, it was a versatile and powerful weapon capable of hitting both air and ground targets. The number "90/53" indicates the caliber of the weapon (90 mm) and the length of the barrel, expressed in calibers (53 times the caliber). Here are the main characteristics of the cannon: Caliber: 90 mm Barrel length: 53 calibers (about 4.77 meters) Primary use: Anti-aircraft defense against bombers and aircraft from high altitudes Secondary use: Also used as an antitank weapon and for land bombardment, given its power and accuracy Maximum range: About 12,000 meters in height and 17,400 meters in horizontal range Rate of fire: About 19 rounds per minute The 90/53 was comparable in power and versatility to the famous German Flak 88 gun, and was also used as anti-tank artillery mounted on armored vehicles such as the 90/53 Semovente. Although it was an effective weapon, limited production and Italian logistical difficulties limited its large-scale use.
Italian Autocannon 3Ro kit with 90/53 cannon with crew (4 figures) in 1/35 scale - IBG model. The3Ro Autocannon with 90/53 cannon is an Italian military vehicle used during World War II. It is a Fiat 634N heavy truck (3Ro) modified to carry a 90/53 mm antiaircraft and antitank gun, which was one of the most powerful weapons available to Italian forces. Main features of the 3Ro truck with 90/53 cannon: Basic platform: The basic vehicle was the Fiat 634N or 3Ro, a heavy truck used by the Italian army to transport troops, materials and weapons. This truck was modified to become a mobile platform for the 90/53 mm cannon. Armament: The 90/53 mm cannon was originally designed as an antiaircraft weapon, but it also proved extremely effective against heavy tanks and armored vehicles due to its long range and ability to penetrate thick armor. Its versatility made it a crucial tool on the battlefield. The gun was mounted on the back of the truck and could be used for both antiaircraft engagements and anti-tank support. Operational role: The 3Ro autocannon with 90/53 cannon was primarily employed for defense against air attacks, but it was soon also used as an antitank weapon on the North African front and in other theaters of war. Its firepower allowed it to take on enemy tanks such as the British Matilda or U.S. Sherman with good results. Performance: The 90/53 mm gun was extremely effective, with a maximum range of more than 12,000 meters for air targets and about 2,000-2,500 meters for land targets. It was capable of penetrating the thickest armor at considerable distances, similar to the famous German Flak 88. The truck, being a heavy, unarmored vehicle, was vulnerable to enemy attack, but the mobility provided by the vehicle allowed artillery to be moved quickly to tactical positions. Limitations: Limited production and logistical difficulties in procuring materials, fuel, and ammunition limited its use. In addition, the absence of armor made it vulnerable to air and ground attack. Theaters of war: It was used mainly on the North African front, where its firepower was essential against enemy armored vehicles, but it was also employed in Italy and other theaters of war where a powerful anti-aircraft and anti-tank defense was needed. Historical significance: The 3Ro autocannon with 90/53 gun represents one of the most successful examples of adaptation of civilian or military vehicles for specialized roles during World War II. Despite limited production, it was one of the most feared weapons on the North African front due to its versatility and power.
Type 95 Ha-Go tank kit with shortwave radio in 1/72 scale - IBG Model.The Type 95 Ha-Go was a light tank used by the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. Here are some key features of the Type 95 Ha-Go:Design: The Type 95 Ha-Go was a light tank designed for infantry and reconnaissance operations. It had a small, low turret, and its profile was rather compact.Armament: It mounted a 37-mm main gun, which, although adequate for the period in which it was introduced, was soon surpassed by larger and better armored enemy tanks. Some variants also mounted a light machine gun.Mobility: The Type 95 Ha-Go was powered by a six-cylinder Mitsubishi gasoline engine that enabled it to reach a top speed of about 45 kilometers per hour on the road. It was quite agile and suitable for operating in difficult terrain, but its light armor made it vulnerable to enemy projectiles.Production and use: The Type 95 Ha-Go was produced in large quantities and was one of the most common tanks used by the Japanese Army during World War II. It was used in several theaters of operation, including fighting in Southeast Asia, China, and the Pacific Islands.Limitations: Although well suited for infantry operations and reconnaissance requirements, the Type 95 Ha-Go had obvious limitations. Its light armor made it vulnerable to enemy strikes, and its armament was not powerful enough to deal effectively with larger and better armored enemy tanks.Overall, the Type 95 Ha-Go was a light and maneuverable tank used by the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. Although it was produced in large quantities and employed in numerous theaters of war, it was significantly inferior to Allied tanks in terms of firepower and protection.
PZL P.24A/F fighter plane kit in Turkish service in 1/72 scale - IBG model.The PZL P.24A/F was a fighter plane produced by the Polish PZL company in the 1930s. The A version was equipped with a Bristol Mercury radial engine, while the F version had a Gnome-Rhône 14K radial engine. The PZL P.24A/F was also used by the Turkish Air Force.Here are some highlights of the PZL P.24A/F:Polish design: The PZL P.24 was designed and built by the Polish aircraft factory PZL (Panstwowe Zaklady Lotnicze). It was a single-seat monoplane fighter of all-metal construction.Engine: The PZL P.24A was equipped with a Bristol Mercury radial engine, while the P.24F was equipped with a Gnome-Rhône 14K radial engine. Both engines had been used in other variants of the P.24.Armament: The PZL P.24 was armed with two 7.7 mm Vickers machine guns and a 7.92 mm machine gun carbine. It also carried a 50 kg bomb under each wing.Turkish Service: Turkey acquired a number of PZL P.24s, both A and F versions, for its air force. These aircraft were mainly used in the fighter role and served during the 1930s.In general, the PZL P.24A/F was one of the most important fighter aircraft used by Turkey during that period and contributed to the country's air operations during the 1930s.
Polish PZL P.11c "Rare Birds" fighter plane kit in 1/72 scale - IBG model.The PZL P.11c "Rare Birds" is a Polish fighter plane developed in the 1930s. It is considered one of the most significant aircraft in Polish aviation history. Here are some salient features of the PZL P.11c:Design: The PZL P.11c was designed and built by the Polish aircraft factory PZL (Panstwowe Zaklady Lotnicze) during the 1930s.Fighter plane: It was designed as a radial-engine monoplane fighter plane.Gull wing: One of the distinctive features of the P.11c is the gull-wing upper wing, which was state-of-the-art for the time and provided good maneuverability.Armament: It was equipped with machine guns and occasionally bombs or rockets, depending on configuration and mission.Participation in World War II: The PZL P.11c actively participated in the defense of Poland during the German invasion in September 1939, but was now found to be obsolete compared to more modern German fighter planes."Rare Birds": The nickname "Rare Birds" refers to the rarity of this aircraft surviving today, considering that most of the examples were destroyed or lost during World War II. The remaining examples are considered rare pieces of aviation history.
German Focke-Wulf Fw 190 D-11 Sorau Factory Series 1/72 scale fighter plane kit - IBG Model.The Focke-Wulf Fw 190 D-11 was a variant of the famous German Fw 190 fighter plane developed during World War II. Here are some salient features of the Fw 190 D-11:Design: The Fw 190 D-11 was an enhanced version of the Fw 190, designed to improve high-altitude performance and to counter high-altitude Allied fighter planes such as the P-51 Mustang.Engine: The Fw 190 D-11 was equipped with the Junkers Jumo 213 inline engine, which provided better high-altitude performance than the radial engine used in earlier versions of the Fw 190. This allowed the aircraft to reach higher altitudes and maintain high performance even at high altitudes.Armament: The armament of the Fw 190 D-11 was similar to that of the other Fw 190 variants and could include 20 mm cannons and machine guns.Recognition: The Fw 190 D-11 could be recognized by its elongated fuselage and slightly elongated tail tip compared to earlier versions of the Fw 190.Role: The Fw 190 D-11 was primarily used as a high-altitude fighter and interceptor aircraft, aiming to counter Allied fighter planes that threatened German bombers during strategic raids.In general, the Fw 190 D-11 was an improved version of the Fw 190 that aimed to provide superior performance at high altitudes compared to earlier variants, thus contributing to the continued evolution of German fighters during World War II.
DAC Kit British Daimler Mk.I Armored Car in 1/72 scale - IBG Model.The British Daimler Mk.I armored car, also known as the Daimler Scout Car, was a light armored car used by British forces during World War II and later. Here are some key features of the Daimler Mk.I:Design: The Daimler Mk.I was a light armored car with a relatively simple and compact design. It featured an open body and a revolving turret armed with a machine gun.Armament: The Daimler Mk.I was armed with a Vickers .303 caliber (7.7 mm) machine gun mounted on a revolving turret. This enabled it to engage lightly armored targets and provide infantry fire support.Mobility: It was powered by a 6-cylinder gasoline engine that gave it a top speed of about 50 miles per hour on the road. It was relatively agile and suitable for operating in various terrains, including rough ones.Use: The Daimler Mk.I was mainly used for reconnaissance and patrol operations, as well as for support to infantry units. Its mobility and ability to patrol difficult terrain made it useful for scouting and surveillance needs.Production: The Daimler Mk.I was produced in limited numbers during World War II. It was later replaced by later variants such as the Daimler Mk.II and the Daimler Ferret, which incorporated technological improvements and upgrades.Overall, the Daimler Mk.I was a light and maneuverable armored car used by British forces during World War II and thereafter. Although it was relatively simple and limited in its combat capabilities, it was a useful vehicle for reconnaissance and surveillance operations in combat areas.
Su-27P fighter aircraft kit in the Ukrainian Air Force Limited Edition 1/72 scale - IBG model.The Su-27P is a variant of the Sukhoi Su-27 air superiority fighter, a fourth-generation combat aircraft designed by the Sukhoi design bureau of the Soviet Union (now Russia). The Su-27 is known for its excellent aerodynamic performance and maneuvering capabilities, making it one of the most agile fighters in the world.Here are some characteristics of the Su-27P:Air Superiority:The Su-27P is designed primarily for air superiority, that is, to gain control of the airspace above the battlefield by defeating enemy aircraft.Armament:It is equipped with a wide range of armament, including long-range and short-range air-to-air missiles as well as cannons. Specific armament may vary depending on user requirements and variant specifications.Maneuverability:The Su-27 is known for its exceptional maneuverability and agility. It can perform a number of advanced maneuvers, including high-incidence aerobatics, the famous "Pugaciov's Cobra," and other maneuvers that make it difficult to deal with in combat.Engine:The Su-27P is powered by two Saturn AL-31F turbojet engines, which give it considerable power and speed.Radar and Avionics:It is equipped with advanced radar and a modern avionics system for navigation, targeting and mission management.Operational Use:The Su-27P has been used by the air forces of Russia and other countries that have acquired or operated Russian-made aircraft. It has participated in various conflicts and operational missions around the world.Variants:In addition to the Su-27P, there are numerous variants of the Su-27, each with specifications optimized for certain roles. For example, the Su-27S is a single-seat version, while the Su-27UB is a two-seat training version.The Su-27P is part of a family of Russian fighters that has influenced the development of many other variants and successors, such as the Su-30 and Su-35. Its advanced design and performance make it one of the world's most iconic fighter aircraft.
PZL P.24B fighter plane kit in Bulgarian service in 1/72 scale - IBG model.The PZL P.24B was a Polish monoplane fighter designed and built by the PZL (Polskie Zaklady Lotnicze) aircraft factory in the 1930s. It was one of the main fighter planes used by the Polish Air Force before the German invasion in September 1939, which marked the beginning of World War II.Here are some key features of the PZL P.24B:Design:The PZL P.24B was a monoplane fighter plane designed by Polish engineer Zygmunt Pulawski. It was an improved version of the earlier PZL P.24A.Wing Configuration:The plane featured a low monoplane wing and retractable landing gear, features that distinguished it from many other fighters of the time.Engine:The PZL P.24B was powered by a Bristol Mercury VIII or IX radial engine, which gave it good power.Armament:The main armament consisted of 7.92 mm caliber Vickers or Browning machine guns. The plane could also carry light bombs under the wings.Participation in the War:During the German invasion of Poland in September 1939, the PZL P.24B was one of the main fighters in Polish air defense. However, the numerical and technological superiority of the German Luftwaffe led to the rapid defeat of the Polish forces.Production and Subsequent Use:Production of the PZL P.24 was limited, and after the fall of Poland in 1939, some captured examples were incorporated into the German Luftwaffe, while others were used by Greece during the Greek campaign in 1940-1941.Legacy:The PZL P.24B represents an important chapter in Polish aviation history before World War II. Its participation in the conflict highlighted the challenges faced by Polish aviation against superior German forces and contributed to the evolution of air tactics during that period.
German light tank kit with fuel trailer Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.b 1/35 scale - IBG Model.The Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf. B (abbreviated as Pz.Kpfw. II Ausf. B) was a German light tank used during World War II. This vehicle was part of the Panzer II family of tanks, which had been designed and developed in the early 1930s.Here are some key features of the Panzer II Ausf. B:Design and Production:The Panzer II Ausf. B was one of the earliest variants of the Panzer II. It was introduced in 1936 and was an improvement over the previous model, the Ausf. A. However, production of this model was limited as later versions of the Panzer II were developed to meet the ever-increasing challenges of the battlefield.Armament:The tank mounted a 20 mm cannon as its main armament. This caliber was suitable for the role of a light tank, allowing it to take on lightly armored vehicles and enemy troops.Armor:The armor of the Panzer II Ausf. B was relatively thin, making it vulnerable to enemy gunfire. It was designed primarily for reconnaissance and light support roles.Mobility:The Panzer II Ausf. B was equipped with a gasoline engine that gave it relatively good speed by the standards of the time. Its mobility was an important aspect, considering its role as a light wagon.Operational Use:During the early stages of World War II, the Panzer II Ausf. B was employed in early campaigns, such as the Blitzkrieg in Poland in 1939 and the invasion of France in 1940. However, its usefulness diminished as the conflict continued and more advanced tanks were developed.The Panzer II Ausf. B represented one of Germany's first attempts to develop and use light, fast tanks to support wartime operations. Its importance declined as heavier and more advanced tanks became crucial on the battlefield.
M13/40 Command Tank Kit with 8 mm machine guns1/72 scale - IBG Model.The M13/40 Command Tank with 8 mm machine guns was a variant of the Italian M13/40 tank. The designation "Carro Comando" indicates that it was a version used for command and control of troops on the battlefield, while the specification "8 mm machine guns" indicates the type of armament mounted on the variant.Here are some specific characteristics of this variant:Command Role:The Carro Comando version was designed to play a command and control role within a tank formation. Typically, a command wagon would have additional crews on board, including officers and communications operators, to facilitate the management of battlefield operations.8 mm machine guns:The specific armament consisted of 8 mm machine guns. These machine guns, usually placed in defensive positions on the vehicle, could be used for close defense against light enemy troops, to provide fire support, or for self-defense purposes.Armor and Mobility:The armor configuration and mobility were similar to those of the basic M13/40 tank. The armor provided some protection against small-caliber bullets and shrapnel, while mobility depended on the gasoline engine.Participation in World War II:This variant, like the M13/40 tank, was employed primarily during World War II. It was used in various theaters of operation, including fighting in North Africa.Limitations and Successors:Like other Italian armored vehicles of the time, the M13/40 had some limitations in terms of armor and firepower compared to the more advanced tanks of the Allied forces. Later developments, such as the M14/41 and M15/42, attempted to improve some of the M13/40's shortcomings.The M13/40 Command Tank with 8 mm machine guns represents a specialized variant of the Italian tank, suited to battlefield command requirements.
M13/40 Tank Kit in 1/72 scale - IBG Model.The M13/40 Tank was an Italian tank used during World War II. It was developed by Fiat-Ansaldo and was mainly used by the Italian armed forces during the war period.Here are some key features of the M13/40 Tank:Design and Production:The M13/40 was designed and produced by the Italian company Fiat-Ansaldo. It entered service during the second half of the 1930s and saw major action during World War II.Armor and Armament:The tank was equipped with armor thick enough to withstand light bullets and shrapnel. However, its armor was not up to the standards of the more advanced tanks used by other nations.The main armament consisted of a 47 mm gun, which had limited anti-tank capabilities, especially during the course of the war when heavier opposing tanks appeared.Mobility:The M13/40 was powered by a gasoline engine that gave it adequate speed by the standards of the time. However, its mobility was limited compared to more modern tanks.Participation in World War II:The M13/40 was primarily employed by the Italian Army during campaigns in North Africa, including the Libya campaign against British forces. It was also used in the Balkans and on the Eastern Front.Operational Limitations:The M13/40 had some significant limitations in terms of armor, firepower, and mobility. It was not up to the standards of Allied and Soviet tanks during World War II.Successors and Subsequent Developments:From the M-series, further developments followed such as the M14/41 and M15/42, which attempted to improve on some of the shortcomings of the M13/40. However, by the end of the war, the Italian tanks were outstripped by those of the Allied forces.The M13/40 represents a phase in the history of Italian tanks during World War II, with its pros and cons. Its historical importance lies in the context of Italian wartime operations and the challenges the vehicle faced during the conflict.
Ukrainian BTR-4E APC kit with 1/72 scale GROM turret - IBG Model.The BTR-4E is a Ukrainian-made Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) troop transport vehicle. Produced by the Ukrainian company "Kharkiv Morozov Machine Building Design Bureau" (KMDB), the BTR-4E is an improved version of the earlier Soviet BTR-80.Here are some of the main features of the BTR-4E:Armor:The BTR-4E is equipped with tough armor to protect the crew and passengers from small caliber shells, shrapnel and other hazards on the battlefield.Armament:The vehicle can be equipped with various armament options, which can include heavy machine guns, automatic cannons and anti-tank missile launchers. Armament configuration may vary depending on the specific needs of the user.Propulsion:The BTR-4E is equipped with a gasoline engine that gives it good speed and adequate mobility. Propulsion may vary depending on the specific version and the user's needs.Amphibious:A distinctive feature of the BTR-4E is its amphibious capability. The vehicle is capable of traversing waterways and can operate in aquatic environments, making it more versatile in various combat conditions.Troop Transport:Like APC, the BTR-4E is designed primarily to transport troops safely and securely to the battlefield. Its internal configuration can accommodate varying numbers of soldiers depending on the specific version.Operational Use:The BTR-4E has been used by the Ukrainian armed forces and some security forces of other countries. Its versatility, with the ability to operate in a variety of environments and with different armament configurations, makes it suitable for a range of tactical missions.The BTR-4E is part of a series of armored vehicles developed by the Ukrainian defense industry and represents a step forward from previous models. Its production aims to meet the needs of modern armed forces in terms of mobility, protection, and firepower.
German light tank kit Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf. a3 in 1/35 scale - IBG Model. The Pz.Kpfw. II Ausf. A3 is a designation for a specific version of the German Panzer II light tank used during World War II. In German nomenclature, "Pz.Kpfw." is short for "Panzerkampfwagen," which means "armored fighting vehicle" in German. "Ausf." is short for "Ausführung," which means "model" or "version" in German. Here are some features of the Pz.Kpfw. II Ausf. A3: Type of Tank: The Panzer II was a light tank developed by the German Army during the 1930s. It was one of the most widely used tanks at the beginning of World War II. Model Ausf. A3: The designation "Ausf. A3" indicates that the tank belongs to the third version (Ausführung) of the Model A. These designations were used to indicate the various modifications and improvements made to the tanks during their production. Production: The Pz.Kpfw. II Ausf. A3 was produced during the 1930s and early 1940s. Production of the Panzer II included several versions and variants to adapt to operational needs and new technologies. Technical Characteristics: The Panzer II was a light tank with relatively light armor and a small caliber gun. It was designed primarily for troop support and reconnaissance. Employment: The Panzer II, including its various versions such as the Ausf. A3, was widely used in the early stages of World War II. However, as the conflict unfolded, its armor and light armament gradually became unsuitable for facing the Allies' heavier tanks. Successors: The Panzer II was gradually replaced by more advanced and heavier tanks, but continued to be used in support and training roles. The Pz.Kpfw. II Ausf. A3 is part of German tank history during World War II, representing an early phase of tank development and use in the conflict.
German Fw 190D-9 Jabo/Sturm Rocket Hunter Fighter Aircraft Kit in 1/72 scale - IBG Model. The Fw 190D-9, with the designation "Jabo/Sturm Rocket Hunter," refers to a specific variant of the famous German Focke-Wulf Fw 190D-9 fighter aircraft used during World War II. The designation "Jabo" refers to "Jagdbomber," which means "fighter-bomber" in German, while "Sturm" indicates a low-altitude air strike. "Rocket hunter" could indicate equipping the aircraft with rockets for ground attack purposes. Here are some key features of the Fw 190D-9 Jabo/Sturm rocket hunter: Fw 190D-9: The Fw 190D-9 was an advanced version of the famous Focke-Wulf Fw 190, a highly successful German fighter during World War II. The D-9 version had a more powerful engine and other modifications than previous versions. Jagdbomber (Jabo): The designation "Jagdbomber" indicated the aircraft's ability to operate as both a fighter and a bomber. These variants were often used for air strikes against ground targets. Sturm: The term "Sturm" indicated the aircraft's use in low-altitude attack roles, where it could attack ground targets with precision. Rocket Hunter: The addition of rockets to the aircraft indicated the ability to carry out air strikes against ground targets using rockets as additional armament. This configuration was often used for air strikes against columns of vehicles or ground targets in general. Enhanced Engine: The Fw 190D-9 had a more powerful engine than previous versions, which gave it improved performance in terms of speed and altitude. Tactical Operations: These variants of the Fw 190D-9 were often used in tactical roles of close air support and aerial attack against enemy forces on the ground. The Fw 190D-9, with its "Jabo/Sturm rocket hunter" configuration, represents one of the many adaptations and variants developed during World War II to adapt fighters to the specific requirements of air combat and tactical ground operations.
Diamond T 968 Softcab cargo truck kit with M2 machine gun 1/35 scale - IBG model. The Diamond T 968 Softcab cargo truck with M2 machine gun refers to a military vehicle used during World War II. Diamond T Motor Car Company, a U.S. manufacturer of commercial and military vehicles, produced several models of military trucks during that period. Here is some information regarding the Diamond T 968 Softcab with M2 machine gun: Diamond T 968: The Diamond T 968 was a heavy military cargo truck produced during World War II. It was used to transport troops, materials and equipment to the battlefield. Softcab: The designation "Softcab" indicates the presence of an open cab, rather than an enclosed or armored cab. This type of configuration was common in light military vehicles and offered greater flexibility. M2 Machine Gun: The M2 Browning machine gun is a heavy .50-caliber (12.7 mm) machine gun used by the U.S. military. The presence of the M2 machine gun on the Diamond T 968 Softcab indicated the vehicle's defensive armament, often used for defense against enemy aircraft or to provide supporting fire. Role: This type of vehicle would have been used primarily to transport personnel and supplies to the battlefield. The presence of the M2 machine gun suggests that it could also have been used for defensive purposes during operations in dangerous areas. Production during World War II: The Diamond T 968, along with other vehicles produced by the Diamond T Motor Car Company, was an integral part of the U.S. contribution to the war effort during World War II. This type of vehicle represents an important part of military logistics during World War II, playing key roles in transporting personnel and materials across various theaters of operation.