1:35 BRAZIL EE-T2 OSORIO

The Brazilian EE-T2 Osório tank (1:35, Trumpeter)

Injection-molded plastic kit of the Brazilian EE-T2 Osório main battle tank in 1:35 scale from Trumpeter. The model captures the low welded turret with its long 120 mm gun, the smooth hull and the running gear. The parts tend to be large and easy to handle, and the tracks are done as one-piece flexible tracks; the exact numbers of parts and schemes differ between releases.

The real subject

The Osório was a Brazilian main battle tank developed in the 1980s by Engesa as the first and at the same time the last home-grown tank of its kind. Two prototype versions were built: the EE-T1 with a 105 mm gun and the EE-T2 with a more powerful 120 mm smoothbore gun, aimed above all at export customers in the Middle East. The project foundered after the planned buyers gave preference to other tanks and Engesa went into bankruptcy. The Osório never reached production and only prototypes survive.

Building and painting tips

Assemble the running gear and the wheels first and fit the flexible tracks while the hull is still accessible. The large parts make the build easier even for the less experienced, but still sand the areas left by the ejector pins. Apply primer and then the finish; on a prototype a uniform desert sand color or a green finish both work well. Bring out the panel lines with a wash and add dust pigments to the running gear and the lower areas. Because it is a prototype, you have a fairly free hand in choosing markings and weathering.

Who the model is for

• For collectors of unusual and little known prototypes
• For lovers of modern armor outside the mainstream
• For modelers with basic experience of plastic kits
• As an interesting conversation piece for the display case

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