1:72 Russian T-62 Main Battle Tank Mod.1962

The T-62 Mod. 1962 tank in 1:72 scale from Trumpeter

This injection-molded plastic kit captures the Soviet T-62 tank in the form corresponding to early series production, designated Mod. 1962. The 1:72 scale is rewarding for collections of Soviet postwar equipment, where this is the development link between the T-55 and later types. The kit is made by Trumpeter.

The real subject

The T-62 followed on from the proven T-55 and brought a fundamental novelty: a 115 mm smoothbore gun, the first smoothbore tank weapon in series service. Sub-caliber projectiles left it at a considerably higher velocity than from the rifled guns of the previous generation, but this also called for a new solution for ejecting the cases, which left through a hatch in the rear of the turret. The hull was longer than that of the T-55, the turret stayed flat and cast, and the powerpack was at the rear. The tank became an export evergreen and fought in the Middle East and in other conflicts.

Building and painting tips

Finish and spray the running gear before you close up the hull. Use thin polystyrene cement on the plastic, and check the long barrel against the light to make sure it is not bent. Apply the base green shade with an airbrush and lighten the upper surfaces with a paler mix. A dark wash will bring out the welds, hatches and grab handles, and dust and mud should be concentrated on the tracks, fenders and the lower hull. A well-judged layer of dust turns the model into a vehicle in the field rather than a museum exhibit.

Who the model is for

• collectors of Soviet postwar armor
• modelers who assemble the development line from the T-54 onward
• builders of dioramas from the conflicts of the second half of the twentieth century
• anyone interested in vehicles in small scale that take up little room

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