Amusing Model 35A033. "Elefant" Schwerer Jagdpanther Sf.Kfz. 184. Scale 1:35

"Elefant" Schwerer Jagdpanther Sf.Kfz. 184. Scale 1:35

AMU35A033 - Amusing Model

At the beginning of the Second World War in Europe, the German Army learned first of the tank battles it had fought in France and Poland. Aware of its weakness in the field of armoured vehicles, Germany wants to equip itself with a heavy tank, called “tank destroyer”. After the work carried out by the German armament engineers, the prototype of the tank SdKfz 184 was built in 1942. In July of the same year, production began, and this huge tank was nicknamed “Ferdinand” (in memory of Dr. Ferdinand Porsche), and later the "Elefant”, in connection with its weight.

Hastily built in anticipation of the German offensive towards the Soviet Union, the first specimens had to face many technical problems, which military engineers were unable to solve. Following the proving ground of the Battle of Kursk, the remaining Ferdinands were temporarily withdrawn from service for revamping.

In late 1943, 48 Ferdinands were each fitted with an anti-infantry ball-mounted MG-34, anti-magnetic Zimmerit paste (a hull texturing to prevent the attachment of magnetic mines), and a commander’s cupola which provided better visibility. These additions, plus some extra armour, increased the weight of the machine to 70 tonnes (second in weight only to the Jagdtiger tank destroyer). The improved and further beefed up Ferdinands were nicknamed Elefants. 

The Model Kit

This is a comprehensive and highly detailed kit that includes full interior and working tracks as well as detailed motor, guns and ammunition storage areas.

The model is approximately 39.5 x 26.2 x 7.8 cm and weighs 762 grams.

Glue and paint are required to complete this model (not included).