1:35 T-55 Enigma

The Iraqi T-55 Enigma tank in 1:35 scale (Tamiya)

An injection-molded plastic kit of the Iraqi T-55 tank nicknamed Enigma in 1:35 scale from the manufacturer Tamiya. The model captures the Soviet T-55 tank with additional armor blocks on the turret and the hull. The set contains a cast texture for the turret, vinyl tracks, mesh screens for the engine deck and a figure of a crew member. Glue and paints are not included in the package.

The real subject

During the Gulf War in 1991 the Iraqi army deployed a modified variant of the T-55 tank with additional armor blocks on the turret and the hull to increase its protection. The add-on blocks were to improve the chance of survival against the modern anti-tank missiles and tank guns of the coalition. Because the vehicles had no official designation, coalition troops gave them the name Enigma. Several of them were captured during the conflict; according to the available reports they served with regular armored units and they are often connected with the role of command tanks. The basis remained the proven Soviet T-55 with a diesel engine and a 100 mm gun.

Building and painting tips

Finish and paint the running gear and the vinyl tracks before closing the hull up. The cast texture of the turret can be brought out by roughening it lightly. Lay the sand scheme on with an airbrush. Bring out the details with washes in the joints and around the armor blocks, and at the end add dust pigments to the running gear and the underside for a desert patina.

Who the model is for

• Collectors of equipment from the Gulf War
• Anyone interested in upgrades of the T-55 tank
• Modelers with a taste for add-on armor
• Builders of desert dioramas

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