SOVIET TANK T-55

TAM35257

When the production of the T-55 began in 1958, a fierce armor development Competition ensued between the U.S. and the Soviet Union. Tamiya is proud to present this watershed tank as the next addition to the Military Miniature Series. The most recent additions to the Military Miniature series have been the U.S. Pershing M26 and German Marder III M. Tamiya has just announced plans to release a 1/35 Scale version of the infamous T-55 Soviet Tank! About the Tank: During World War II, the Russian mass-produced, masterfully crafted tanks put the country on the forefront of tank technology. After the war, the Soviet T-54 and T-55 tanks were developed. In 1958, the mass-produced T-55 with its massive 100mm cannon, compact body, and half-sphere turret (that exhibited superior shell deflecting capabilities) shocked the countries of the West. The result of this spurred a fierce tank development competition with the United States. In 1962, the T-55A with anti-radiation capabilities was produced. In addition to Russia, production also ran in countries such as Czechoslovakia and Poland. Over it's production life, many updates and variations were made to make this one of the most fearsome tanks ever. Approximately 10,000 T-55's and T-54's were produced in all. Used extensively by militaries in about 40 countries in the Middle East, these tanks have been involved in many Mid-East conflicts, including the recent Gulf War. Even now, 40 years after its initial production, the T-55 is still being employed by militaries in the Middle East and Balkan areas to this day!

About the Model: The low clearance chassis has been replicated down to the finest detail, even the cast iron surface of the tank has been faithfully recreated.

The characteristic half-sphere turret and powerful 100mm cannon are typical Tamiya - PERFECT!

Not a single detail has been overlooked.

If you don't believe us, simply take a peek at the engine grill and cast iron wheels! This kit will allow you to make one of two versions that were produced. The T-55A with anti-radiation armoring, or the DShK-M anti-aircraft machinegun. Like most Tamiya products, a multitude of extra options are included in the kit.

The modeler can also choose parts for replication of the tank as it was produced in Communist Russia, or Czechoslovakia and Poland (with river crossing snorkel and headlight).

One tank commander figure posted on cupola is also planned to be featured in kit.