Dragon Models StuG.III Ausf.B (Smart Kit) New

Dragon’s popular and new generation StuG.III series already includes 1/35 scale kits of the Ausf.A, C/D, E, F and G. The last one waiting in the wings was the Ausf.B, and now it’s here! Armed with a short-barreled 7.5cm StuK.37 gun of L/24 caliber, the 20.2-ton assault gun was widely used by Sturmartillerie batteries in campaigns such as the Balkans and the invasion of Russia. As to be expected, the new kit is cleverly based on foregoing family members, but it also has a host of new parts specifically created for this early variant of German assault gun. An example is the hatches on top of the fighting compartment superstructure, which are different to those on any other StuG.III variant. Also new for this release are optional spare-track brackets on the front of the right-hand fender, these being made from photo-etched metal parts. Also new are photo-etched clasps for the front fenders. This magnificent Smart Kit contains a full fighting compartment interior. Dragon’s new generation of StuG.IIIs is now fully present and correct!

Dragon has already introduced later variants of the RSO to the modeling fraternity in 1/35 scale, but now comes the most common version of this German prime mover. The acronym RSO stands for Raupenschlepper Ost, which translates as “Caterpillar Tractor East”. The terrible muddy and icy conditions experienced on the Eastern Front convinced Germany of the need for a highly mobile, tracked vehicle. Steyr proposed the RSO and it immediately became a popular vehicle thanks to its mobility and reliability. In all, about 23,000 RSO vehicles were produced by a range of manufacturers. The original version had a pressed-steel cab and a typical truck-style cargo bed at the rear. It was powered by a Steyr 85hp V8 engine that offered a top speed of 30km/h.

Dragon’s new 1/35 scale model depicts the standard RSO/01, this type with rounded steel cab being the best known of all the versions used by Germany. Indeed, the complex shape of the cab was created by a Japanese model-maker, and it is easily the most accurate cab available on the market today. The cab is a sophisticated piece of molding in terms of detail and measurements, with all the curves accurately reproduced in miniature. Many modelers have been waiting a long time for Dragon to produce this iconic version of the RSO, and they won’t be disappointed with this new kit. For those wishing to create a dynamic Eastern Front diorama scene, this RSO tractor will prove irresistible!

Models are supplied unpainted and some assembly may be required.