Note: The early released T-26 variants (under Skif and UM) have rubber tracks and the later under "Um-Technics" released variants have hard plastic tracks
Built model by Udo Bauer - (Conversion UMMT kit 630 / Skif 217A into SU-5-2)
Umbau des T-26 in die SU-5-2 der Roten Armee. Das Fahrzeug wurde in der Mitte der 30er Jahre im Rahmen des Projektes "Malyj Tripleks" gebaut. Der "Tripleks" umfasste SP guns mit 76 mm, 122 mm und 152 mm Geschützen auf einem einheitlichen Chassis, welches vom T-26 abgeleitet war. Insgesamt umfasste die Serie nur etwa 30 Fahrzeuge, die häufigste Variante war die SU-5-2 mit 122mm Haubitze. Die Fahrzeuge wurden bei den Gefechten am Halhin Gol und in der Anfangsphase des Grossen Vaterländischen Krieges aufgebraucht - Udo Bauer
For "Marko Makinen's / OTW" review of kit 217 - Russian T26 M1933 visit:
Model built by Olaf Klein
For an "On the Way" review of kit 218 - Russian T26-1 M1939 visit:
Model built by Andrei Makarov
Model built by Marcin Mizielinski
Model built by Igor Leonov
Model built by Aart Hoogenstrijd
BT-5
The BT-5 kit consists of four sprues of 99 finely moulded parts (including 'link and length' tracks) with very nice raised detail. Also included is a small photo etched fret with grills and a few other 'details' and a set of decals with markings for three vehicles.
All road wheels and suspension arms are moulded separately with 13 pieces to each 'track' (you have the option of assembling the tank with tracks or just with wheels). The six parts turret and gun (both are moveable) has an optional position rear access door but all other hatches (on the turret and upper hull) are moulded in the closed position....there is no interior detail.
For an "On the Way" review of kit um301 - Russian BT-5 visit:
BT-2
This of course, is the same kit as the BT-5 but with different decals and the small sprue containing the turret and gun (both are smaller on the BT-2).
In all, there are 102 crisp, clean injection moulded parts (including 'link and length' tracks) with good detail (a few sink holes, but they are
on the inside and won't be seen)....a small photo etched fret (engine grills etc.) and the decals, which have markings for three Soviet BT-2s.
Model built by Drew Gleason - (This vehicle has the usually early BT-2 wheels)
Model built by Igor Leonov
For "Augusto Versiani's / OTW" review of kit um302- Russian BT-2 visit:
Built model by Zhenmin Han
BT7 M1935
Same kit as the BT-5 but with a different upper hull, decals and etched set. There are 105 crisp, clean injection moulded parts (including 'link and length' tracks) with fine raised detail. The decal sheet has markings for two vehicles...Khasan lake 1938 and Khalkhin-Gol river 1939. The etched fret has engine grill covers. As with the BT-5, all road wheels are moulded separately (but not the suspension arms) and the turret is moveable.
Model built by Zhenmin Han
Model built by Andrei Makarov
Model built by Drew Gleason
Model built by Liu Hongjian
Model built by Igor Leonov
For "Rafal Niedzielski's / OTW" review of kit um305 and um311 - Russian BT7 M1937 visit:
Built model by Zhenmin Han
Built model by Juraj Korpa
Built model by Igor Leonov
Model built by Al Magnus
Model built by Zhenmin Han
RBT-5 with Rockets
This is the rocket launcher version of the BT-5 ... so the kit is a re-issue of the BT-5 wheel/track tank, but with an extra 20 parts which provide you with two rockets and their launcher/mounts, to fit on each side of the turret. In all, there are 117 crisp, clean injection moulded parts (with nice raised detail), a small photo etched fret (including engine grills) and a comprehensive instruction sheet...but no decals. Tracks are of the link and length variety, all raod wheels are separate
moundings and the turret and gun are both moveable. There are no optional position hatches.
For "Al Magnus'/ OTW" review of kit um313-Russian RBT-5 with Rockets, visit:
For "Erhan Atalay's / MiniAfv" construction review of kit 313 - RBT-5 with Rockets visit:
T26 with turret A43
With Unimodel kits being made by Skif in the Ukraine, it's not surprising this is a re-issue of the Skif T-26...still with the vinyl tracks but with the addition a small photo etched fret... as well as the new 'A-43' turret (designed by N.Dyrenkov). In all, there are 108 injection moulded parts, the two vinyl tracks and the etched set (no decals). All road wheels are separate mouldings (hence the high number of parts) and the upper hull has optioinal position hatches...but
no interior detail. The turret, which also has an optional position hatch, is moveable but the gun isn't.
T26-4 Artillery Tank
Another version of the original Skif T-26 kit, this is virtaully the same as the Unimodel T-26 w/A-43 turret, but with an enlarged turret, a KT canon and two DT machine guns. There are 109 crisp, clean injection moulded parts, a small photo etched fret and two 'vinyl' tracks...but no decals.
T-26 'twin turret' 1931 version)
Another re-issue of the old Skif T-26 ('rubber band' tracks) but with a new 'twin turret' sprue. The rest of the kit is pretty much the same ...125 injection moulded
parts (separate road wheels and suspension arms), a small photo etched fret and a decal sheet with markings for three tanks (2x Soviet, 1x Finnish).
For "Doug Chaltry's / OTW" review of kit um316 - Russian T26 Twin Turrets, visit:
Built model by Zhenmin Han
Built model by Andrei Makarov
Built model by Juraj Korpa
BT-2 w/machineguns
This likes a re-issue of the original Unimodel BT-2 (kit number 302) but there are some differences...most of the parts are identical, instead of the 37mm canon you use the two machine guns (supplied
in both kits). The other more important difference are, besides the box art and instructions, this kit include the original BT-2 wheels (not the BT-5 wheels) and the decal sheet which now has markings for one Moscow based BT-2 (1933) and one
Belarus based tank from 1936. The kit has link and length tracks, separate road wheels, etched grills and moveable turret and guns.
For "Miro Baric's / OTW" review of kit um360 - BT-5 with cylindrical turret visit:
Built model by Marcin Mizielinski
For "Scott van Aken's / ModelingMadnes" review of kit um361 - T26 with cylindrical turret visit:
Built model by NeilLyall
For "Miro Baric's / OTW" review of kit um402 - Screened T26 Tank visit:
Built model by Zhenmin Han
Model built by Juraj Korpa
Model built by Andrei Makarov
For "Leonid Postny's / 1/72depot" pictures built kit 404 - T26T Armoured transporter / T26N Reconnaissance Observation Tank visit:
Built model by Andrei Makarov
Built model by Igor Leonov
For "Baris Bayar's / MiniAfv" construction review of kit 406 - BT-5 with Rocket Mounting RS-132 visit:
For "Stephen Brezinski's / OTW" article of kit um409, 605 and 606 of 3.7cm Pak35/36 and Related Kits Comparison visit:
Finished model by Vojislav Jereb
Armored self-propelled railroad car D-37 with D-38 turret was developed in USSR in 1932. It was designed for railroad tracks protection as well as scout car for armored trains. D-37 had unibody welded from 6-12 mm armored plates. 40 h.p. Ford engine was located in the lower part while armament was located at the top. It was manned by 6 troops. D-37 was able to move with the same speed forward as well as backwards. Armament consisted of 76mm (1927) gun and two side machine guns (DT). Anti-aircraft weapon station with twin 'Maxim' machine guns was fitted in the rear of the compartment closed by two-part hatch. The hatch was opened for combat and station was raised up. It was never entered production but served as a base for more advanced armored car DT-45.
Model built by Neil Lyall
Comments by Neil Lyall
Here is the UMmt D-37 self propelled rail car that was released a year or two ago. Its built completely OOB, only exceptions are door handles and
hinges on the side doors, and the rivets, which were home made and my first attempt at making rivets. This vehicle almost could be called a quick build,
though there is a bit of brass etch on it which is always a bit fiddly, when you have to judge its exact positioning. Ilian Filipov dug up some plans and
pictures of this thing, which helped immensely. This is the first 'green vehicle' I have painted since the 1980s, and its a nice change from German
yellows and greys, I might have to make a few more things that need to be green. This car was made in the early 1930s and was never in combat service.
I have painted it to look a bit worn, but not so bad that it looks like it needs to be scrapped. Appears it never had markings, though was very
tempted to add a red star to it, I think it looks better plain.
Model built by Al Magnus
For "Al Magnus' / OTW" review of kit um601 - Armored Self-Propelled Railroadcar D-37 with D-38 Turret visit:
Built model by unknown
Armored self-propelled railroad car DT-45 was developed in USSR in 1933 by modernization of it's predecessor D-37. It was designed for railroad tracks protection as well as scout car for armored trains. Cylindrical turret from T-26 tank with 45 mm gun was fitted to the unchanged hull of D-37. Radio set 71TK with rail antenna was also installed. It was manned by 7 troops. To improve mobility special equipment was installed to allow DT-45 to be easily transferred on to parallel track. It was successfully tested but never went into production because of shortage of manufacturing abilities. However, experimental units were used for training up to the beginning of WWII.
For "Eddy Nevarez's / OTW" review of kit um602 - Armored Self-Propelled Railroadcar DT-45 visit:
Model built by Al Magnus
For "Al Magnus'/ OTW" review of kit um603 - Armored Self-Propelled Railroadcar BD-41 , visit:
Built Model by Al Magnus
For "Al Magnus'/ OTW" review of kit um604 - Armored Self-Propelled "Leningrad" Railroadcar , visit:
For "Scott van Aken's / ModellingMadnes" pre- and review of kit ummt 604 - Armored Self-Propelled "Leningrad" Railroadcar visit:
"ModelingMadnes" (preview)
"ModelingMadnes" (review)
OB-25 gun Diorama by Bazil Van Beeck
For "Stephen Brezinski's / OTW" article of kit um409, 605 and 606 of 3.7cm Pak35/36 and Related Kits Comparison visit:
For "Stephen Brezinski's / OTW" article of kit um409, 605 and 606 of 3.7cm Pak35/36 and Related Kits Comparison visit:
For "Patrick Mondria's / OTW" review of kit um606 - 37mm pak 35/36 and 42mm pak 41 visit:
For "Al Magnus'/ OTW" Kitbashing a 42mm Pak41 using the Dragon & UMmt kits um606 - 42mm pak 41 visit:
For "Al Magnus'/ OTW" review of kit um607 - Railroad parts for Railroadcars visit:
Finished model by Vojislav Jereb - (figures Preiser No. 72525 set)
The OB-3 light armored train was an attempt by the Red Army to reconstitute the armored train forces quickly and inexpensively after the severe losses of 1941. The artillery cars are on simple two-axle wagons with only a single turret.
Built model by Gulumik Blogspot
Armored locomotive OV (type OB-3)
For the armored train (BEPO) was developed by USSR in the first months of WWII. Armored locomotives of almost every armored train (BEPO) were
manufactured by standard specifications (prototype "Marshal Budenniy" ) by armoring steamer of "OV" series. However, there were some differences
between units like set up of commander's post, armoring of the pipe, presence or lack of air-defense turret on tender etc.
Typical unit of this project was OV No. 5676 from armored train No.2,44d battalion . It was armored with steel plates (with no thermal processing).Boiler,
tender and moving parts by 40 mm thick. Machinist, commander posts by 45mm thick. Air Defense turret - 36mm thick.
Equipped with "Dnepr" communication set. 12.7 DshK heavy MG as deterrence to enemy aircraft was installed on tender. Manufactured in shop of "Molotov"
station in April of 1942. In total 60 steamers of this type were manufactured in 1941-43.
Armored train.
In Soviet Union from the beginning of the Second World War and till the end of 1941 armored trains were intensively manufactured. As a rule, they were
built on the locomotive and car-repair factories, and in various railway depots from the improvised materials and accessories. Very often parts of
the tanks broken in fights were applied to construction of armored trains. From a few tens of the built armored trains the main part was of the
OB-3 type (facilitated).
The armored train "Railroader" was made in Moscow depot in December 1941. It was the typical representative of this kind. It consisted of 4 armored platforms (armored carriages), constructed on the basis of 20 ton platforms, with one tank turret (?-26) on each of them, and of armored locomotive of type ?? which was put in the middle of structure between two pairs of platforms. This train was armored by plates in the thickness of 20-30mm (steam locomotive) and 30-40mm (carriages) from ordinary constructional steel. It was passed in structure of 23 battalions under ?1 at the beginning of 1942. The crew of the armored train consisted of 60-80 people.
It took part in battle operations and was in a field army till the end of the Second World War. Experience of application in fights of such armored trains has revealed many lacks, especially weak air forces protection; however they have served as a prototype for creation in further of more perfect constructions of the armored trains.
Model built by Neil Lyall
For "Neil Lyall's / BrailleBuilder" preview of kit um612 - Armored Train - OB-3 armored railway carriage with T-26 (1933) visit:
OB-3 armored railway carriage with T-26(1933) turret.
Armoured carriages with double turrets of type OB-3 were built at the station Lihobory (Okruzhnaya railway) at the end of 1941. They have been constructed of metal frameworks of biaxial 20 ton railway platforms sheathed with the (27+18) mm ordinary constructional steel by two-layer sheets. On a roof of such armoured carriage were mounted two turrets of tank T-26 (1933). In each turret have been set 45 mm tank gun (21-K) and coupled with it 7.62 mm DT machine gun. Besides there were two onboard DT machine guns, set in trunnion balls, one on each side. Ammunition consisted of some hundred shells and some thousand cartridges. The crew of such carriage consisted of 12-15 fighters. These armoured carriages were a part of Red Army armoured train of No.1, 23 ODBP, which was taking part in the Second World War in fights at the Volkhov front 1942-43.
Panzerzug Typ OB-3 No.1, 23 Division
In der Anfangsperiode des Grossen Vaterlandischen Krieges wurden in der USSR die Panzerzuge in vielen Eisenbahndepots, Wagen- und Lokomotivfabriken
und Betrieben intensiv gebaut. Es wurde beliebige vorhandene Materialien und die Komponenten verwendend. In Folge der unwiederbringlichen Verluste
der Panzern, besonders leichter wurde haufig fur den Bau von der Panzerplattform die Turme und die Ausrustung der beschlagenen Panzern verwendet.
Der Panzerzug Typ OB-3 No.1, 23 Division war in der UdSSR im Dezember 1941- Januar 1942 aufgebaut. Er bestand aus 2 Zweiturm- Panzerplattformen,
aufgebaut auf Basis von 20- Tonnen Eisenbahnplattformen, und ebenso Panzerzug Typ OB. Panzerdampflok wurde zwischen Panzerplattformen aufgestellt,
auf dem Tender der Dampflokomotive wurde das Maschinengewehr DschK ( 12.7 mm ) fur den Kampf mit den Flugzeugen des Gegners instaliert.
Auserdem wurden in der Regel vorn und hinter den Zug die Kontrollplatformen mit den Ersatzschienen und den Sandsacken gestellt. In der Kampftruppe
hatte dieser Panzerzug den inoffiziellen Titel "Igel" Dieser Panzerzug No.1, 23 Division von 12.1941 bis 12.1942; No.604 von 12.1942 bis 10. 1943; No.620
von 10.1943 bis 05.1945) nahm am Kampf auf der Wolchowski Front teil und befand sich in der aktive Armee bis zum Ende des Grossen
Vaterlandischen Kriegs.
Biaxial 20 ton platform (short- 6.6 m )
Two axle flat open wagon cars were used before the war for different type of cargo up to 20 tons. In wartime they were used as pilot cars placed in front and behind armored train (sometimes few of them). Their purpose was to protect armored cars and locomotive from mines. Pilot car heavily loaded with sandbags detonated mines leaving the rest of the train untouched. Pilot car had composite chassis from metal and wood placed over axles on leaf springs. All 4 sides could be dropped on hinges. Depending on purpose floor and sides could be metal or wood construction and were equipped with pneumatic brakes. They were often used as a chassis for light armored cars and air-defense stations.
Model built by Liarry Amrose
For "Liarry Amrose's / Cybermodeler" review of kit ummt 615 - Armored Train - Two axle long pilot car visit:
For "Scott van Aken's / ModelingMadnes" review of kit ummt 615 - Armored Train - Two axle long pilot car visit:
Two axle pilot car (long-9.2 m)
Two axle flat open wagon cars were manufactured in the USSSR. These platforms used before the war for different type of cargo up to 20 tons. In wartime
they were used as pilot cars placed in front and behind armored train (sometimes few of them). Their purpose was to protect armored cars and locomotive
from mines.
Pilot car heavily loaded with sandbags detonated mines leaving the rest of the train untouched. Pilot car had composite chassis from metal and wood
placed over axles on leaf springs.
All 4 sides could be dropped on hinges. Depending on purpose floor and sides could be metal or wood construction and were equipped with pneumatic
brakes.They were often used as a chassis for light armored cars and air-defense stations.
Technical characteristics:
The floor area---------------------------- 24.9 M2
Height of boards
--Lateral----------------- 620 mm
--Face---------------- 310 mm
Volume--------------------------------------- 12.9 M3
Most weight of a loaded platform------- 25.3 T.
Loading from an axis on rails----------------12.65 T.
Loading on way running metre----------2.43 T.
Armored Air Defense (PVO) railroad car by Steel Bridge' plant.
In the beginning of WWII Red Army armored trains suffered considerable losses due to insufficient air defense capability - usually twin 7.62 mm Maxim
machinegun placed on tender). To resolve this issue armored trains began to receive special air-defense (PVO) armored pilot cars that were put in
production at the end of 1941. Main builder was Steel Bridge' plant located at Ramenskoe near Moscow.
Common type was Steel Bridge plant armored PVO platform model 1941-42'. Based on short open car it was equipped with twin 12.7mm DShK heavy machine
guns on special pods inside armored boxes with hinged roof shields. It was manned by 6-10 troops and carried ammo load of 10000 rounds. 21 of these
were built during the War. Addition of these platforms enabled to decrease losses due to air attacks. Experience gained led to more advanced 4-axle
cars with armored chassis and armed with automatic 25 or 37 mm guns.
For "Volker Helms'/ IPMS DE" First Look of kit 616 - Armored Train visit:
For "Neil Lyall's / BrailleBuilder" preview of kit um616 - Armored Train - Armored Anti-Aircraft mount built by 'Steel bridge' factory visit:
Built model Telford 2013 - Dimitris Kontos
SAM-AT-platform
Special anti-aircraft machine gun mount (SAM-AT) for armored trains was developed in the Soviet Union in 1935. It was built on standard 20-ton
railroad platform.Octagon shaped turret was attached to the floor. It was made from 20mm thick sheets of armor riveted to each other. Quad mount for
'Maxim' 7.62 machine guns was fitted inside. Turret had movable roof that slide on rollers. SAM-AT was operated by crew of 3 people. 28 of these
units were made in 1936-41 period. They were used as a part of armored trains in Great Patriotic War, especially in early period
For "Scott van Aken's / ModelingMadnes" review of kit ummt 618 - 6 ton tank "VICKERS" model "e" optie A visit:
6-ton tank "Vickers" model "E"(version "A")
Was developed in UK during 1928-29 by "Vickers - Armstrong". The company intended to export tank into so-called "Second world" countries. Tank had two
turrets, each armed with 7.7mm "Vickers" machine gun. It was designed as infantry support vehicle and was nicknamed "trench cleaner".
Tank hull was riveted from sheets of armor (8-13mm). Two turrets with ability to turn were mounted on top. Tank was powered by 4-cylinder engine
(80 H.P.).
Although, number of reliability issues (engine and suspension) was found - tank combat and technical performance was at high level. It had huge success overseas. 12 counties purchased this version, while Poland, Finland and USSR used chassis to develop their own Tank Forces. These tanks
participated in number of conflicts. Considering that they were purchased by opposing countries - they often fought each other.
Single turret tank "Vickers" model "E" version "B
Was developed in UK during 1928-29 by "Vickers-Armstrong". Armed with 47mm gun it called "fire support tank" and was intended to deal with enemy
firing positions. Tank hull was riveted from sheets of armor (8-13mm). Rotating turret armed with 47 mm gun and 7.7 mm machine gun was mounted on top.
Tank was powered by 4-cylinder engine (80 H.P.). Originally tank was designed for export and with simplicity of manufacture and maintenance.
Suspension was designed for weak pavement. Tank was fairly inexpensive which was deciding factor for export to "second world countries" 10 counties
purchased this version and some counties used chassis to develop their more sophisticated tanks. These tanks participated in number of conflicts and
stayed active into 1960's.
Model built by Neil Lyall
PL-43 Armored car with T-34/76 turret.
In 1942 during Great Patriotic War armored train of new type BP-43 was developed in USSR. It was built around 4armored platforms PL-43 (platform
light 1943). PL-43 was built on 20-ton two axle railcar. Front and side armored shield were 45mm thick. Turret 45-60mm. Roof and chassis were 20 mm.
Turret from T-34 tank armed with 76mm gun was mounted on top. Three 7.62 DT machine guns were mounted in ball mounts. Manned by 6-8 people crew.
PL-43 were effectively used on every front. 80 platforms of PL-43 type were produced during WWII.
For "Neil Lyall's /BrailleBuilder" preview of kit um622 - PL-43 Armored car with T-34/76 turret visit:
For an "Narod.ru" preview of kit um622 - PL-43 Armored car with T-34/76 turret visit:
Model built by David Lovell
For "David Lovell's / Military Modelling" review built kit ummt 628 - OB-3 Biaxial armored car with two T-26-1 conical turrets visit:
For "Scott van Aken's / Modeling Madnes" review of kit ummt 628 - OB-3 Biaxial armored car with two T-26-1 conical turrets visit:
OB-3 Biaxial armored car with two T-26-1 conical turrets
Armored cars of type OB-3 were built in USSR at the beginning of WWII with improvised materials and details. In assembling of these carriages often
were used parts of the crushed in battles light tanks. They have been constructed of metal frameworks of biaxial 20 ton railway platforms sheathed
with the (30-40) mm ordinary constructional steel by two-layer sheets. On a roof of such armored car were mounted two conical turrets of tank
T-26-1. In each turret have been set 45 mm tank gun (21-K) and coupled with it 7.62 mm DT machine gun. Besides there were two onboard DT machine guns,
set in trunnion balls, one on each side. Ammunition consisted of some hundred shells and some thousand cartridges. The crew of such carriage consisted
of 12-15 fighters. These armored cars were used as a part of armored trains and took part in Leningrad and Moscow fights during the first months of war.
Built model Telford 2013 - Dimitris Kontos
Armored platform PL-43 with T-34/76 (1941) turret
Armored trains of new type BP-43 were widely used by USSR in war with Germany since 1942. Train was based on 4 armored platforms PL-43 (1943 light
platform) and (as a rule) 2 antiaircraft armored platforms. Armored platform PL-43 was manufactured on the basis of biaxial 20 ton railway platforms
with running gears from 20 ton rail cars. Platform armor was made from tempered armored sheets and attached to the frame. Thickness of front and side -
45 mm; roof and running gear - 20mm. T-34 tank turret (45-60 mm armor) was mounted on reinforced roof. It is known that turrets and guns of different
designs and years of production were used on PL-43. However, T-34 (1941) with F-34 76 mm gun were more common. PL-43 was also armed with three DT(7.62m)
machine guns: one in the turret and two in the hull in spherical mount. As a part of the armored train these armored platforms were used in operations
on all fronts up to the end of war. Dozens of units with such armored platforms were produced during the WWII.
For an "Narod.ru" preview of kit um629 - PL-43 with T-34/76 (1941) turret visit:
Built model by Udo Bauer - (Conversion UMMT kit 630 / Skif 217A into SU-5-2)
Umbau des T-26 in die SU-5-2 der Roten Armee. Das Fahrzeug wurde in der Mitte der 30er Jahre im Rahmen des Projektes "Malyj Tripleks" gebaut. Der "Tripleks" umfasste SP guns mit 76 mm, 122 mm und 152 mm Geschützen auf einem einheitlichen Chassis, welches vom T-26 abgeleitet war. Insgesamt umfasste die Serie nur etwa 30 Fahrzeuge, die häufigste Variante war die SU-5-2 mit 122mm Haubitze. Die Fahrzeuge wurden bei den Gefechten am Halhin Gol und in der Anfangsphase des Grossen Vaterländischen Krieges aufgebraucht - Udo Bauer
Air Defense station model 1931 (later ADS)
Was developed in USSR by famous engineer Tokarev. ADS was widely in stationary, self-propelled and naval role. It was fitted to trucks, trains, ships and even on the roof of the buildings. It consisted of base, ammo box racks, moving frame with counter-balances, shoulder brackets with trigger levers, scope and forced cooling system. Lift mechanism allowed swift changing of line of fire height. 4 ‘Maxim’ machine guns were lined up on pipe stile frame. Each ammo box could hold 500 rounds. ADS’s were given to Air-Defense companies of both Army and NKVD. With high rate and volume of fire it was very successful against low level flying enemy aircraft. It successfully defended large cities and military installations and often used against ground targets. Few thousand of these pieces were manufactured during the war.
For "Al Magnus' / OTW" review of Kit um635 - Air Defense station model 1931 - (4 "Maxim" machine guns) visit:
Built model by Gulumik Blogspot
For a "Gulumik Military Models" review Kit 636 - Armored train "Fascism Fighter" visit:
"Gumulik Blogspot" part 1 "construction"
"Gumulik Blogspot" part 2 ""finished & painted
Armored train "Fascism Fighter"
Was built in the USSR in November In 1941 the depot "Moscow-passenger" of the Lenin railway. In the initial version into it's structure they entered: an
armored locomotive of the type OB with the turret of antiaircraft defense (Air Defense) on the tender (quadrupled antiaircraft setting of 1931 for Maxim
machine guns), and two armored platforms. Biaxial with two 45 mm guns in the turrets of tank T-26 (thickness of boards - 45 mm ), And biaxial with the
towers from the tank T-28 (one gun -76.2 Mm and two machine-guns DT- 7.62 mm ) With a thickness of boards of 17 mm .
Further, in 1942 the armored train has been strengthened by special platforms of Air Defense. This BEPO was a part of 6th separate battalion of armored
trains, and operated in 1941-42 on the Western front. Was in December 1942 appropriated new No. 646. During participation in battle actions repeatedly got
damages, and in 1943 it was completely re-formed, after obtaining new material part - train of the type BP- 43. In the time of combat its crew destroyed
tens units of technics and hundreds of soldiers of enemy. Many soldiers of this BEPO were rewarded with orders and medals of the USSR.
Built model by Gulumik Blogspot
For a "Gulumik Military Models" review Kit 637 - Armored train "Dzerzhinets" visit:
"Gumulik Blogspot" Part 1 "construction"
"Gumulik Blogspot" Part 2 - "finished & painted"
Armored train "Dzerzhinets"
Was built in USSR in March 1942 at Moscow – Gorkiy depot of Dzerzhinsky Rail line. It consisted of OV type Armored Steam engine (30-36mm steel) with Air Defense station fitted to tender and four armored with 30mm side armor. Each car was armed with T-28 turret with 76mm KT-28 gun and 6 machine guns (4 in turrets and 2 in the hull). Since summer of 1942 train participated in action on Volchov Front as part of 48-th Independent train division. It defended bridges and stations from air attacks and shelled enemy ground targets. On December 5-th 1942 it received new ?699. In 1944 train participated in braking blockade of city of Leningrad. Train served trough the war and was retired in 1946. Many of it's serviceman were awarded with medals and orders of USSR.
For a IPMS Deutschland "first look" - Kit 638 - Heavy armored railcar BDT visit:
This Railwaycar was developed in the USSR in 1934. Was made on the chassis rail car Kaluga Machine Engineering (with the engine ZIS-5). The hull welded
from armor sheets 8- 16 mm , and fastened to the chassis frame with bolts. Armament consisted of 45 mm gun with a coaxial machine gun DT ( 7.62 mm ) in
the T-26 turret installed in the middle of the hull as well as three on-board machine guns "Maxim", DT machine gun in the rear of the chassis, and
anti-aircraft twin-unit "Maxim" in the rear of the hull, which was put forward and could fire through the special hatch in a roof. The crew consisted of
9 fighters. Armored railcar was equipped with radio station and an intercom system (for internal communication).
In total it were produced of 10 BDT armored railcars. Several cars took part in WWII. They were transferred to battalions of armored trains as
reconnaissance means.
Built model Telford 2013 - photo Dimitris Kontos
Motorized armored railcar D-3
Motorized armored cars of D-3 type were developed in the USSR at the beginning of 1930s by engineer Dyrenkov. The hull of the car was built on rivets or
welded by 10 - 16 mm armor and had two or four doors in sides for crew. The commander cabin was set in a center, on the roof of the hull, with
observational cracks, the exit hatch upward and with the hand-railed aerial for the radio station. Turrets with an armament were set in front and back
part of the hull. The hull was fastened to the frame collected of sheet and profile iron. «Gerkules» YXC engine with capacity of 93 hp was placed in
the center of a frame (or Yaroslavl factory motor of 90 hp) and D-35 box of change of transmissions, which was equipped with a reverse and provided four
speeds at car movement forward or back. Armament of motorized car consisted of two 45 mm guns and DT machine guns (in T-26 tank turrets), and also
four Maxim machine guns in boards. The crew consisted of 11-16 fighters. Guard and defense of railway objects in frontier regions of the Soviet Union
was assigned on these armored cars and they could operate as independently, and as a part of armored trains. More than 30 units of different modifications
of these cars were made; part of them participated in the Second World War 1941-45.
Built model by Neil Lyall
For "Neil Lyall's / BrailleBuilder" review of kit um640 - Armored Car "Zeppelin" visit:
Armored Car "Zeppelin" , was made in an Only Copy, and was the Unique Technical object of the Second World War. Today in available sources there are contradictory data on its origin which don't allow to approve something unequivocally. It is known for certain that it was operated on the territory of Finland in 1941-43 (probably on the branch of Simol-Paps). Independent expert from Russia Kiyanov Alexey Nikolaevich (aka Ornst), carefully studying all available materials, and analysing historical information of that time, asserts convincingly (and some more experts on military rarities agree with him) enough that this unit was made ??approximately at the end of the 40th - the beginning of the 41st year by Finns from the remains of the trophies trapped at Red Army in the Soviet-Finnish war 1939-40. Namely two artillery tractors "Komsomolec" (cabins and hatches - as doors), an armored vehicle BA-20 (board) and BA-10 (turret and probably parts of armor on boards). A triaxial platform on which the corps was welded was base of the car. The power part is unknown, most likely the petrol engine with a reversal transmission. An armament consisted of 45mm gun, and coupled with it 7.62mm DT machine gun placed in a turret (from BA-10). Allegedly the crew consisted of 8-10 fighters. The post-war history of this object also isn't known.
The model is designed on the basis of known photos and projective drawings of Paul Malmassari.
Correction in Instruction Manual, by Vojislav Jereb
Model built by David Lovell - (pictures from MilitaryModelling.com)
Tank T-28 on rails (an armored platform)
In the first year of the Second World War broken tanks were often used at construction of the armored trains. For example, on the basis of the T-28 Tank
Were built Bepo "Fascism Fighter" (one armored platform) and "Dzerzhinets" (4 armored platforms) On a biaxial platform set a corps with three turrets of
tank, and scalded outside sheets of unred-hot 30mm armor. The armament of such armored platform consisted of 76 mm gun (KT-28), and 6 DT machine guns
(4 in turrets and two in boards). Ammunition made some several hundred shells and a few thousand cartridges. The crew of such armored platform consisted
of 12-15 fighters. As a part of these BEPOs armored platform took part in operations on different fronts, and due to a successful construction, survived
till the end of war.
During initial period of the Second World War regular armored trains of Red Army quickly enough were put out of action by aircrafts , and tanks of the enemies . Therefore often for support of a withdrawal of armies or defense BEPO’s were created from improvised materials and available equipment. This platform with set on it GAZ-AA, with quadruple antiaircraft machine-gun plant, and 45 mm an anti-tank gun (1932), most likely, belongs to such BEPO. It was aimed for defense of air and tank attacks of the opponent. Unfortunately there are no historical data of a place of its participation in battles, and as a part of what BEPO it was. However, experts in the field of knowledge of rare military technique, made the assumption that it could participate in structure of the initiative BEPO in 1942 near Odessa, or Sevastopol though its participation on other difficult regions of fronts of that hard time for Red Army isn't excluded. Certainly, weak defense didn't give it chances of long existence, nevertheless such not typical samples of military railway equipment, played an important role to stop approach of armies of the opponent and to stabilize front.
Model built by Vojislav Jereb
Cargo transportation by rail in all industrialized countries of the world were always of great importance, however in wartime the especially-important attention was paid to this process. There was a vital necessity for a mobile transfer of military equipment from one theatre of war to another, as well as in delivery of military equipment and maintenance cargos from rear to front, and equipment transportations to the rear for its repair and restoration. In particular, two-axis platforms were used for such transportations during the Second World War. The military photographic chronicle imprinted such moment when the BT-5 tank with the removed caterpillars is transported on a two-axis platform.This model is also devoted to memory of these events.
27-th armored trains Division was formed and built in the USSR in the city of Omsk in March, 1942. Division consisted of two BEPOs: No. 1 "Victory", No. 2 "For the Motherland". Each of them consisted of two Ov type armored locomotives, (hardened tank armor: a boiler - 20 mm, movement and tender - 30 mm, the box and the cabin of the commander - 40 mm, a tower of air defense - 15 mm, armament - DShK), and four armored platforms: No. 952, 953, 954, 955 and No. 956, 957, 958, 959 (hardened tank armor: sides and turrets - 15+15mm with air gap, movement and roof - 15mm, armament of all - 75mm Polish gun (1902/26) and five DT machine guns). Subsequently, each BEPO was equipped with one antiaircraft platform of Stalmost plant with two DShKs on each.
At the end of 1942 bepo got new numbers: No. 638-"Victory", No. 651-"For the Motherland". Armored Division was in fights on the Korelsky front, participated in support of parts of 37-th division, and further in 32-th division. It was repeatedly noted by command for active operations. In August, 1945 27 ODBP has been disbanded; fighting equipment was transferred to 62 ODBP.
For an "Daniel Reifer / Hugos Hobbies" unboxing Kit um645 - Armored trains "Alexander Nevskiy" visit:
"Hugos Hobbies" on YouTube - "German Language"
25th separate division of armored trains separate division was formed in the USSR in the city of Ufa at the end of 1941/beginning of 1942. The division consisted of two bepos: No. 1 "Commander Suvorov", No. 2 "Alexander Nevskiy". armored trains "Alexander Nevskiy" consisted of Ov type armored locomotive (armament - DShK), and four armored platforms: No. 924, 925, 926, 927 (not hardened armor, boards and turrets - 15+15 mm with an air gap, movement and roof – 15 mm, armament of each – 75 mm Polish gun, sample of 1902/26 and five DT machine guns). In the summer of 1942 the 25th division was given to the 62nd army, where it took part in fights, participating in defensive of Stalingrad. As a result, after short fights, bepo "Alexander Nevsky" of coming to surrounding and damaging of armored locomotive had been left by the crew and was captured by the enemy at Basargino station. At the end of 1942 bepo "Alexander Nevsky", got new numbers No. 687. In 1943 in Saratov after the receipt of new equipment the 25th division was moved to the front again in order of 51 army. Till March, 1945 both bepos took part in fights as a part of the 2nd Ukrainian front. In 1946 25 division was disembodied.
29th division of armored trains was formed and built in the USSR in the city of Krasnoyarsk in early 1942. Division consisted of two armored trains.
No-1 "Krasnoyarec",No-2 "Yenisei". Armored trains were of the same type, each of them consisted of armored locomotive of type Ov, (30 mm hard-tempered
armor, booth and the cabin of the commander - 40mm), and four armored platforms:No. 960, 961, 962, 963 and No. 964, 965, 966, 967 (hardened armor, boards
and turrets - 30mm, running gear and roof - 15mm), armament of each - 76mm tank gun KT-28 (76 mm) and five machine guns DT). Afterwards each armored
train was completed with one air defense platform of Stalmost plant with two DShK on each.
In the summer of 1942 armored trains was given to the 53rd army of the North-Western front, subsequently it was transferred to the 34th army of the same
front and participated in fights near Demyaninsk. At the end of 1942 armored trains got a new numbers: No-1 - 643, No-2 - 692. Later, in the Third Baltic
front armored trains participated in the protection of the railway stations. In June 1945 29th division was disbanded.
Armored antiaircraft defense platform of an armored train with two 37mm automatic antiaircraft guns 61-K.
Red Army's armored trains at the beginning of the Great Patriotic War, as a result of lack of means of antiaircraft defense (air defense) suffered big
losses from air attacks of the enemy.
To protect BEPO anti-aircraft weapons with different arms were created. The most effective against German aircraft was considered to be armored car armed
with two 37 mm automatic antiaircraft guns constructed at "Stalmost" plant in 1943-45. They were made on the basis of long biaxial or eight-wheel platforms
which got "Armored platform PVO-4" designation. Among themselves they differed by armor protection scheme: later designs had armor protection of a
running gear. On a floor of the platform armor casemates with leaning-back top boards were installed and fastened. Within these casemates 37 mm automatic
antiaircraft guns 61-K were placed on special devices, with the possibility of rotation around its axis. The crew of such armored platform totaled
10-12 fighters. During the war 46 such air defense platforms were made.
ExperimentalarmoredcarD-2
In the USSR in the thirties, in process of development for needs of Red Army of a serial armored car D-2 of the designer N. Dyrenkov, some various prototypes were developed and made. Experimental armored car was a framework of biaxial platform sheathed by armored sheets with two turrets mounted on the chassis. Armored car had self-contained reverse power plant (gasoline engine “Hercules” and gearbox D35) that allowed it to move on a railway track forward-back with a speed up to 75 km/h. The armament of armored car consisted of two 76 mm guns (1902) mounted in turrets with one machine gun DT (7.62mm) in each turret. On the hull sides 7,62mm 4 machine guns "Maxim" were installed. A fighting vehicle was oriented to attain combat tasks in conditions of close-in fight, for protection of strategic railway junctions and maintenance of echelons on march. The car was equipped with antenna and portable radiotransmitter. The crew consisted of 12-15 persons.
The most common small-caliber automatic anti-aircraft gun of the Second World War is developed by the Swiss company Oerlikon 20 mm automatic cannon. In the United States Navy for this gun is licensed in the versions "20 mm / 70 (0/79") Marks 2, 3 & 4". Modification Mk 4 was the most widespread in the early stages of production. This plant was installed on all classes of combat ships, vessels and boats of the U.S. Navy. Installing Mk 4 is available as part of the Lend-Lease allies (the Soviet Union in 1993 was set apart from weapons that were manned ships received under the Lend-Lease). Results from June 1941 to the end of 1945 in the U.S. was produced 124,735 guns Oerlikon
In the UK under license the Swiss company Oerlikon 20 mm produced automatic cannon «FFS» called "20 mm / 70 (0/79") Marks I, II & IIIA ". Modification Mk IIIA was the most common. This unit was installed on all classes of military ships, vessels and boats of the Navy of Great Britain. on September 1945 there were of 55,000 guns in service in the the British Navy and the Navy community. Some British supply vessels at the end of 2006 to remain armed 20 mm / 70 (0/79 ") Oerlikon guns
Deck installation Oerlikon 20 mm / 70 (0/79 ") Mark 24 was a further development of Mark 10. When it became clear that need to increase the fire barrier against aircraft attacking ships engineers and designers have developed a new cradle and yoke are mounted on a tripod the installation Mk 10. adding weight to a minimum the number of issued installing shells doubled. this setting remains as easy to manage and maintain.
In 1938, on the basis of of automatics 37 mm automatic anti-aircraft 61-K, the Design Bureau (DB) plant number 8 was designed 37 mm automatic anti-aircraft gun in the ship's machine. In December 1938, made a prototype installation,
and from 14 March to 21 May 1939 conducted field tests. In 1940, on the Black Sea were conducted shipboard trials. After installation of shipboard tests
under the name "37 mm automatic anti-aircraft artillery system in the ship's machine mod. 1940 70-K" adopted the Soviet Navy.
Gun mount 70 -K installed on all classes of warships from battleships and cruisers to small submarine hunters , armored boats and defense . A shot from
the sunken warships in databases gun mount 70 -K was set to fixed coastal defense batteries naval bases
Gun mount 70 -K issued from 1940 to 1956 . Released 3151 installation industry . During the Second World War gun mount 70 -K were the main automatic
anti-aircraft guns of the Soviet Navy (released in 1967 , received the Navy in 1671 setting). After World War II, the USSR transferred warships and
boats with 70 -K plants in Poland, Romania , Bulgaria, China
In 1938, on the basis of automatic 37 mm automatic anti-aircraft 61-K, in the design office of the plant number 8 was designed 37 mm automatic anti-aircraft gun in the ship's machine. In December 1938, made a prototype installation , and from 14 March to 21 May 1939 conducted field tests . In 1940, on the Black Sea were conducted shipboard trials . After installation of shipboard tests under the name " 37 mm automatic anti-aircraft gun mount 70 -K" adopted the Soviet Navy. Although that was created more progressive deck anti-aircraft installation B-11 anti-aircraft installations with automatic 70-K, 1956 industry continued release of deck units 70 K (released 1184 units). Installing continued to recruit small antisubmarine ships. In 1948, was designed to set a new armored shield with improved inspection and the increased area of booking (6.5 mm thick armor, shield weight of about 300 kg). At repair of old boards in factories remodel (conducted Standardization) for the new board. After 1950, the USSR handed combat ships and boats of plants 70-K model 1948 in Poland, Bulgaria, Romania, Albania, Egypt, China, Indonesia, Cuba.
In the world, in 20-30th, with the development of tank construction and improvement of battle tactics of tanks and tank divisions, had come a necessity in
creation of self-propelled artillery based on the tank chassis.
In 1931 in the USSR for preparation and support of tank attack and for means of anti-tank artillery, was made a decision on development and production of
self-propelled artillery (76 mm gun on the chassis of tank T-26). In 1932-33 a number of such SU-1, AT-1 projects were produced in single copies.
In 1933 in one of the special design bureaus for mechanized forces the self-propelled plant A-39 (T-26 chassis) was developed. Originality of the project
was that 76 mm gun has been built in the rotating turret of a special construction (a prototype of the artillery tank). Owing to the objective and
subjective reasons these weapons have not been launched in series, however experience of designing and testing of these samples, contributed to the
further development and manufacture of serial samples of artillery tanks T-26-4 and BT-7A.
American inventor John Walter Christie in the late 20's and early 30's had engineered several revolutionary tank designs, in which has managed to embody idea of the combination of mobility, firepower and protection for the first time in the world. To this list of his works, combat vehicle "T1 Combat Car", 4 samples of which were purchased by the U.S. army for its cavalry belongs. The design represented a wheeled-tracked machine (8 rubberized rollers) with long, narrow bullet-proof hull, on the top of which was mounted rotary turret armed with 7.62 mm and 12.7 mm twin machine-guns. A powerful engine and spring suspension have provided to the fighting machine high speed, high possibility and maneuverability. Further, high characteristics of these machines were evaluated and used in similar designs of the armored vehicles of a number of countries such as USSR, Poland, England.
Armored car-carrier (DTR) was designed in the USSR in 1934 for the needs of Red Army. DTR was transferred to the units of armored trains, and was targeted for reconnaissance, and also for transportation by rail of wounded combatants and special freights. Armored car was built on the base of the chassis of the Kolomna motor car. The hull welded from 4-8 mm armor was fastened to the frame by bolts. In the center of a roof, the hexadecimal turret with a machine gun "Maxim" was installed. Besides, in each board of the hull were two installations of DT machine guns, and one DT was placed in the front and rear sheets. For boarding of crew and landing party there were 4 doors (two on each side), for observation on the move, in the right board the small hatch was made, in the left there were blinds. Armored car was equipped with radio station 71-TK-1 with the handle antenna, and the mechanism for passing to the parallel track. These fighting vehicles participated in World War II, both at the Soviet-German front and in the Far East, in fights with Japan. In total some tens cars were produced from 1935 to 1941.
Staff armored car (DSh) was designed in the USSR in the early thirties for railway troops of Red Army. DSh was a command and observation post of the commander of armored battalion, both in movement and in fight. Armored car was produced on the base of the chassis of the Kolomna motor car. The hull welded from 4-8 mm armor was fastened to the frame by bolts and was divided inside into staff and fighting compartment. On a roof the hexadecimal turret with a machine gun "Maxim" was installed. Besides, one DT was placed in the front sheet of the hull. For boarding of crew and staff, there were three doors in boards of the hull. For observation at the movement, in the staff compartment there were three windows with armored flaps. Armored car was equipped with radio station 71-TK-1 with the handle antenna, and the mechanism for passing to the parallel track. These fighting vehicles participated in World War II, both on the Soviet-German front and in the Far East, in fights with Japan. In all there were produced up to ten of such cars.
7,5 cm German infantry gun IG 37 (as 7,5 cm anti-tank PaK 37) was designed in 1943. These were light guns mounted on split-trail carriages. To create I.G.37 Germans used gun carriages of outdated 37-mm anti-tank guns (both own Pak 35/36, and trophy Soviet 1-K (3,7 cm Pak 158 (r)) were used). The barrel was taken from IG 42. The guns had the separate loading, close to the Soviet gun angle of vertical targeting and considerably bigger angle of horizontal targeting and were 200 — 300 kg easier than the Soviet ones.The gun could be used not only as the regimental cannon, but also as means of fight against tanks. The powerful anti-tank shell which pierced 85 mm armour at right angle was used. The first 84 guns were assembled in June, 1944. Totally there were made 1304 of such guns during the war.
Armored car DTR-casemate on a railway platform.
Armored car-carrier DTR-(riveted version), was developed in the USSR in 1934. DTR was designed to make a command and observation post for the units of armored trains, and also for reconnaissance and transportation by rail of wounded soldiers and special freights. In total some tens cars were produced from 1935 to 1941.
DTR participated in World War II at the Soviet-German front, and, two of them in the battles of summer 1941 have been captured by Wehrmacht. One of them as an armored car, was used as a part of PZ-10 armored train, and the hull of the second captured machine, the Germans had set on a railway platform as an armored casemate, and used as a part of the armored train. History holds back a further way of this unique armored unit, and nevertheless for modellers and fans of military history it has to be of particular interest as being fought on both sides of the front.
Works on engineering of the light wheel-track BT-7 tank began in the USSR at the beginning of the 30th, to increase the firepower of BT tanks.
Significant changes of the BT-5 tank design were worked out.
The first prototype of the BT-7 tank with the engine M-17T was made by May 1, 1934. This fighting vehicle had the following armament: the 76.2 mm gun
mod. 1927 with the shorted recoil length and the self-contained 7.62 mm DT machine gun located in a ball support were set in a turret of an elliptic
form with a beveled roof.
The role of screen was fulfilled by the semi-cylindrical armored plate attached to special brackets of the gun installation and was rotating about
trunnions together with the gun.
The obliquity and width of the front plate located before the driver-mechanic were increased, which allowed to set a self-contained ranging machine
gun next to him. The turret of such construction and a ranging machine gun at launching of the BT-7 tank in serial production were cancelled.
Armored car-carrier DTR-(riveted version), was developed in the USSR in 1934. DTR was designed to make a command and observation post for the units of
armored trains, and also for reconnaissance and transportation by rail of wounded soldiers and special freights.
Armored car was built on the basis of the chassis of the motor car Kolomna. The riveted version of this machine, was made at Podolsk Machine-Building
Plant. The hull, from 4-8 mm armored plates was fastened to the frame by bolts. Bent from plate armored turret with the machine gun "Maxim" was placed in
the center of a roof. Besides, in each board of the hull there were two machine gun mounts DT, and DT by one was placed in front and rear sheets.
For boarding and landing of crew there were 4 doors (by two on each side), for observation on the move, in the right board the small hatch was made,
in the left there were blinds. Armored car was equipped with radio station 71-TK-1 antenna with the handle, and the mechanism for passing to the by-pass
route. These vehicles participated in World War II at the Soviet-German front, and at least, two of them in the fields of summer 1941 have been captured
by Wehrmacht. In Red Army at the beginning of war, DTR were available in 8'th, 9'th and 11'th armored divisions, and also in 60'th and 66'th regiments of
the NKVD troops. The Wehrmacht used trophy DTR as a part of the armored train, PZ-10 (1942)
ArmoredcarBDT-41 was developed in the USSR in Bryanskatthe "KrasnyjProfintern" plant on the base of BDT car at the beginning of 1941. It was aimed for combat
missions in the conditions of fighting, in fight against tanks and railcars of the enemy, for reconnaissance and protection of railway communications.
The hull was welded from the armored sheets thickened to 45mm. Armament consisted of 76mm gun with the coupled machine gun DT (7.62mm) in the turret
from T-34 tank, installed in a middle part of the hull. Three-four onboard machine guns "Maxim" and one face machine gun DT, and also coupled antiaircraft
mounting of DShK machine guns in the rear part of hull which moved forward and could fire via special hatch, including air targets. As the power plant was
taken V-4 diesel engine, 300h.p. (from T-50 tank). For external communication KRSTB wireless station was used. The crew consisted of 9-11 fighters.
The car wasn't launched into production because of the begun war.
Kit um671-1 - British Tank Vickers E Mk. A - (Made for Poland) - (with plastic tracks)
For "Jan Willisch's / IPMS DE" preview Kit um671 - British Tank Vickers E Mk. A - (Made for Poland) - (with rubber tracks) visit:
The armored train of the 48th ODBP (armored division) No. 1 "Death to the German invaders" was formed and built in the USSR in 1942 in the Ilyich depot
of the Western railroad. It included armored locomotive of type Ov (not hardened armor of 30-45 mm, armament consisted of DShK machine gun) and four
armored platforms No.899, No.909, No.903 and No.904 (the hulls with the turrets of T-34 tanks, closed outside by not hardened armor of 30-33 mm, have
been installed on platforms). Armament of each – 76-mm tank gun F-34 and three DT machine guns and air defenses platforms of the “Stalmost” plant with
two 25 mm antiaircraft guns.
From summer, 1942 to fall, 1943 it participated as a part of the 48th separate battalion of armored trains in combat operations on the Volkhov front. It
had defended stations and bridges from air raids and had made fire raids on enemy ground targets. On December 5, 1942 the armored train got new No. 681.
In 1944 as a part of the Leningrad front took part in combat operation on lifting the siege of Leningrad, further on August 5, 1944 it was transferred
to the 3rd Belarusian front. Before the end of war, the armored train "Death to the German invaders" was in the ranks and has been disbanded in 1946.
During the war, 70% of the personnel, for the shown heroism and courage in fights with aggressors, have been awarded by fighting orders and medals.
Model under construction by Udo Bauer
Motorized armored railcar MBV was developed and made in the USSR in Leningrad at Kirov Plant in 1935-36. MBV was an armored railcar with the M-17 engine
and with the reverse gearbox providing forward-rearward movement.
Motorized armored railcar consisted of the armored hull bonded with a frame, mounted on two carriages of railway type connected among themselves. One
carriage was basic and another with mounted engine and transmission - leading. The armored hull welded of 10-20 mm armor (a forehead and commander's
cabin - 20 mm, side -16 mm and roof - 10 mm).
Armament of MBV consisted of three turrets of the T-28 tank (76 mm KT-28 gun) set in front and middle part of the hull, 4 onboard "Maxim" machine guns
(7.62 mm) in spherical mantlets, DT machine gun (7.62 mm) in a hull rear and quadruple antiaircraft machine-gun mount in a special section inside the
hull with a possibility of moving out and firing against air targets through a flap lid. In the middle of the hull the commander's cabin equipped with
a rotary range finder was located. MBV was also equipped with radio station 71-TK-2 and internal communications.
Tests of MBV showed good fighting and technical characteristics of this car and after removing of a number of shortcomings this motorized armored
railcarwas passed into service to the Red Army. According to the plan had been going to make of 10 more MBV, however due to the lack of material
and technical resources it was succeeded to construct in 1937-38 only one (MBV-2). Further both of these supertanks participated in World War II.
Model built by Udo Bauer
For "Roland Schmidt'/ IPMS DE" First Look of Kit um673 - Motorized Armoured Railcar MBV No. 1 visit:
During World War II on the Soviet-German front enemies often used in fights the captured combat materiel, so in particular, as a part of the German
armored trains special armored railcars were used. The hull (with turret) of the T-34 tank was built in the railway platform. Such "hybrids" had
different names. Those which were used as a part of armored trains for protection of the railroads and other rear objects were called "pursuit
(follow-up) wagons (cars)", and those which were components of front armored trains (type BP-42) were called "tank destroyers ".
The base of such armored railcar and its chassis was the lengthened (9 m) biaxial platform inside of which partly shortened hull of the T-34 tank
without chassis, engine and transmission was built in and fixed. Armament of such armored car consisted of turret of the T-34 tank with 76 mm gun F-34
and two DT machine guns (7.62 mm). Chassis and floor were, as a rule, protected by armored sheets. Judging by the name, it was effective fighting unit
of an armored train. Data, about exact quantity of such armored cars hasn't been determined yet, but according to military photos, they were used
not in single quantity.
Model built by Erik Geldner / Missing Lynx Forum - (conversion from kit 673)
3 Different versions of the MBV Armoured trains
For "KMT's/ IPMS DE" First Look of Kit um675 - Motorized Armoured Railcar MBV No. 2 - with 76,2 mm Tank guns L-II visit:
MBV-2 with L-II guns - version 2
Remaining MBV-2 with F-34 guns - version 3 - Kubinka, Russia
MBV-2 armored train moved in Patriot Park "Kubinka", Russia
MBV-2 "first move after 50 years", "YouTube"
Armored train "Soviet railroader" as a part of the 61st separate armored trains division (SATD) was adopted on March 30, 1943 at the Kolomna
machine-building plant. Bepo of type BP-43 (armored train model of 1943) received No. 760: the armoured locomotive Ok, No. 868 - was armed with a
DShK machine gun; armored platforms PL-43 No. 43-460, 43-461, 43-462, 43-463 (armor of 30-45 mm ) - each equipped with the 76.2-mm F-34 tank gun,
3 DT machine guns (one in a turret); the air defense platform No. 43-464 is armament: two 37 mm antiaircraft guns 61-K.
As these armored trains were built on the funds raised by workers of Zheleznodorozhny district of Moscow, they were given the names: No. 744
"Moscow railroader" (No. 1), No. 760 "Soviet railroader" (No. 2).
After formation, on September 11, 1943 bepo "Soviet Railroader" departed at the disposal of the Steppe front, then in November became a part of
the Southern front, and there took part in battles until the end of 1943. In January, 1944 this bepo as a part of the 61st SATD supported offensive
units of the 37th Army at Zinoviev and Zelenopole, in March — acted with parts of the 54th fortified area at the station School, where suppressed 2
artillery, 2 mortar batteries, destroyed a mortar, 6 cars, 2 pillboxes and the observation post.
In the summer of 1944, bepo "Soviet Railroader" was included in the structure of the 52nd army, which supported units of the 213th rifle division
during the breakthrough of the German defense near the city of Iasi. It finished the war, guarding weapons depots from air attacks at Mizil station.
After the end of the war in 1946 it was disbanded.
Model built by Liu Hongjian
Model built by Liu Hongjian
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