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1/72 Soviet SU-85M
Tank Destroyer, Poland 1945
Features
Open window display packaging
Highly popular and collectible item
True to 1/72 scale
Fully accurate mold
Fully assembled
Historically accurate markings and insignia
Includes protective display case
At the commencement of the Great Patriotic War against Germany, the T-34 and KV-1 proved perfectly adequate against enemy tanks. However, as Germany introduced steadily heavier tanks like the Tiger I and Panther, it was realized a more powerful antitank gun was required. The first solution was the SU-85 (Samokhodnaya Ustanovka – Russian for “self-propelled carriage”) armed with an 85mm D-5T high-velocity gun.
This weapon system first saw combat in August 1943. Later, the Soviets desired an even more lethal gun, and the SU-100 armed with a 100mm D-10S gun was conceived. However, teething problems with the new gun meant the old 85mm weapon were fitted in the redesigned hull meant for the SU-100. This stopgap vehicle was known as the SU-85M, and is easily identified by its thicker frontal armor, all-round vision cupola for the commander (as found on the T-34/85), and a more spacious fighting compartment.
Dragon Armor is offering another fine model of an SU-85M. This 1/72 scale miniature shows a vehicle of an unidentified Russian unit fighting in Poland in the winter of 1945. What sets this SU-85M apart is the magnificent winter whitewash camouflage scheme. In some places the underlying base coat of green is beginning to show through on vehicle number “281”. This realistically worn look can be seen on such detailed parts as the gun barrel muzzle and the road wheel hubs. All details on this Russian tank destroyer are carefully reproduced, with even unassuming items such as the lumber saw mounted on the hull side expertly molded and painted. The weathering and dry-brushing effects are masterfully executed, resulting in a superb model fit for any armor collection.
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