1:35 Russian 1K17 Szhatie

The Russian 1K17 Szhatie 1:35 (Trumpeter)

An injection-molded plastic kit of the unusual self-propelled laser vehicle 1K17 Szhatie from the maker Trumpeter. The model builds on the chassis of the self-propelled howitzer of the Msta series and carries a bulky turret with batteries of optical heads. It is an extensive kit of ordinary injection-molded plastic supplemented with photo-etched parts; the exact contents of the package should be taken from the instructions.

The real subject

The 1K17 Szhatie was an experimental Soviet, or rather early Russian, self-propelled laser vehicle from the turn of the 1980s and 1990s. It arose on the chassis of the 2S19 Msta-S howitzer and its task was to blind and destroy the optoelectronic sensors of the enemy. The system worked with a large number of optical heads, and a 12.7 mm machine gun for close defense supplemented it. The vehicle stayed at the experimental level.

Building and painting tips

Because of the number of parts, proceed according to the instructions by subassemblies and finish the running gear before the hull is closed. Glue the plastic with a thin cement, treat the surface with a primer and apply the paints with an airbrush. Accent the characteristic turret with its optics with fine washes and mask the clear elements.

Who the model is for

• collectors of unusual and experimental hardware
• anyone interested in late Soviet weapon systems
• more experienced modelers who will manage a more extensive kit
• builders of display case models with an interesting theme

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.