The German medium tank Sd.Kfz.171 Panther Ausf.A early production version was the beginning that the Panther series tanks became mature. Its production started in the fall of 1943. To solve the shortcomings of the Panther Ausf.D, the Panther Ausf.A had optimized protection and improved reliability of the power system. The Panther Ausf.A was fitted with a new commander’s cupola and cancelled the snorkel on the Panther Ausf.D. However, it kept some features from the Panther Ausf.D. With the increase in operation experience, the shortcomings of the Panther tanks were resolved on the Panther Ausf.A. The strongest German medium tank finally showed a terrifying strength.
KIT INFO
This MENG TS-046 1/35 German Medium Tank Sd.Kfz.171 Panther Ausf.A Early model kit features realistic surface details incl. hot rolling texture, cast texture, weld beads and cutting marks. It can be improved with SPS-077 and SPS-057. This kit includes multiple optional parts and provides various assembly options, covering the complete changes from Panther Ausf.D to Panther Ausf.A. This kit also includes fine PE parts, metal cables and metal side skirts. Four paint schemes are included.
- Length: 252.9mm
- Width: 98.6mm
Features:
- The mighty appearance of the Panther Ausf.A early version is excellently reproduced.
- The main gun can be elevated and depressed like on the real tank.
- The commander's cupola is a cast one with better ballistic protection. A circular rail is added for the installation of a machine gun.
- This model features realistic cutting seams and cast texture.
- The openable driver's observation window is an important feature of Panther Ausf.A and Ausf.D.
- The SPS-077 Zimmerit decals can be applied to highlight this outstanding feature of German equipment.
- The engine grilles are represented by precision PE parts.
- The breakdown of the side skirt parts which are replicated by stainless-steel PE parts follows the way on real tank.
Paint Schemes:
- No.II02,HQ 2nd Battalion, 23rd Panzer Regiment, Wehrmacht, Eastern Front, Winter 1943
- No.221, 1st Battalion, 15th Panzer Regiment, 11th Panzer Division, Wehrmacht, Eastern Front, Autumn 1943
- No.613, 2nd Battalion, 5th Panzer Regiment, Waffen-SS, Kowel Poland, Spring 1944
- No.I02 Command Vehicle, HQ 1st Battalion, 4th Panzer Regiment, Wehrmacht, Florence Italy, Summer 1944