1:72 ZSU-23-4M/M3/M2

The real subject

The ZSU-23-4 is a Soviet self-propelled anti-aircraft gun on a tracked chassis, known among modelers by the nickname Shilka. In its turret it carries a four-barrel 23 mm cannon, and at the rear of the turret a radar for fire control. The high rate of fire together with the tracked chassis made it an escort asset for armored units: it could keep pace with tanks and defend them against low-flying targets. The machine served in dozens of armies and went through several upgrades, to which the letters M, M3 and M2 in the name refer.

What the set contains

The ZSU-23-4 kit in 1:72 scale. It is supplied unassembled and unpainted. The number of parts, the color options offered and which of the upgraded versions can be built are given in the manufacturer's instructions.

Building and painting tips

Before gluing, separate the parts, clean them up and degrease them, so that the paint holds evenly. Leave the four barrels and the small elements on the turret until the end of the build, so that they are not broken off during handling, and when gluing watch that all four barrels point in the same direction. The radar antenna folds on the real vehicle, so think through its position before gluing. The tracks and the lower hull will benefit from a dark wash into the recesses and dusting with pigment, and a dry brush will brighten the edges of the turret.

Who it is for

For modelers of postwar military hardware who build in 1:72 scale and want to add an anti-aircraft asset to their armored vehicles. The smaller scale keeps the model within the dimensions of an ordinary display case, and the machine also works well as a striking element in a diorama.

Paints, glue and other materials are not included in the delivery, unless stated otherwise.