1:35 German T-34/76 747(r)

T-34/76 747(r) (1:35, Academy)

An injection-molded plastic kit of the captured Soviet tank T-34/76 in German service, with the designation 747(r), in 1:35 scale from Academy. The model captures the T-34/76 adapted for the needs of the Wehrmacht, among other things with a German commander's cupola. The kit contains photo-etched parts and decals with German markings; depending on the release some parts are spares. Check the exact contents against the manufacturer's part number for this item.

The real subject

After the invasion of the Soviet Union the German army captured a large number of T-34 tanks and took many of them into its own service as so-called Beutepanzer with the designation Panzerkampfwagen T-34/76 747(r); the letter r referred to the Russian origin. The vehicles were modified to German requirements, above all with a commander's cupola giving all-round vision, German radios and optics and sometimes tool boxes. Prominent German crosses were painted on the hull and the turret so that they would not be mistaken for the enemy.

Building and painting tips

Glue the parts with liquid cement for plastic and assemble and paint the running gear before you finish the hull. Apply a primer and the paint with an airbrush; captured vehicles carried either the original Soviet finish with added crosses or German camouflage. Prominent crosses and markings will help the story of the model. Bring out the engraving and the edges with a wash and finish the dust and mud effects with pigments on the running gear and the lower part of the hull.

Who the model is for

• Collectors of captured equipment (Beutepanzer)
• Modelers with experience of building tanks in 1:35 scale
• Those interested in the T-34 and its use by both sides
• Builders of dioramas with unusual markings

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