Barcode: 0 89195 86402 4
Case Pack: 20
Box Size: 9.6" x 15" x 3.5"
At first glance, the German Panzer IV tank of WWII doesn’t look
like an amphibious tank. That’s because it wasn’t designed as such!
However, as Germany contemplated Operation Sea Lion, the invasion of
Great Britain, a number of Pz.Kpfw.IV tanks were converted into
Tauchpanzer (literally, “diving tank”) mode. The plan was for these
watertight tanks to be launched from ships off the coast of England,
and to drive along the seabed until they emerged on beaches. Although
these “amphibious” tanks weren’t used against Great Britain, they did
see combat in the invasion of Russia - for example, the crossing of the
River Bug in 1941.
Dragon has previously offered modelers a 1/35 scale model of a
Pz.Kpfw.IV Ausf.D Tauchpanzer, but now the choices available have just
doubled. Emerging from Dragon’s design studios is a new Panzer IV
Ausf.E Tauchpanzer! While most diving tanks were converted from Ausf.D
vehicles, some Ausf.E were similarly treated. This 1/35 scale kit is
based on Dragon’s superb Panzer IV E, but it includes all the necessary
modifications like sealed openings, snorkel tube and exhaust valve to
make it into a swimming tank. For added convenience for modelers,
separate parts with and without waterproof covers are provided. Another
key aspect of this kit is the addition of a Betriebsstoffanhanger, a
fuel trailer. Like the tank itself, this small two-wheel trailer with
fuel drums has been reproduced in extremely fine detail. For modelers
looking for something a little different, and for those looking for
fuel to take their panzer collections further, this interesting
combination is the answer! This mix of tank and trailer is sure to
cause a splash!
