D9R Armored Bulldozer W/Slat Armor 1:35 Meng SS010

Plastic Military Model Kit: D9R Armored Bulldozer W/Slat Armor 1:35 Meng SS010

The D9R Armored Bulldozer W/Slat Armor plastic model in 1:35 scale from Meng is a precisely replicated model of one of the most well-known engineering vehicles used by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). This model beautifully captures the mechanical beauty of the real vehicle, including the intricate design of the slat armor, which is a key protective element in actual military operations.

Model features:

• Length: 247 mm
• Width: 126 mm
• Realistically replicated bulldozer blade and ripper, which are movable.
• Metal rods for hydraulic cylinders for added realism.
• The interior of the cabin is detailed.
• Movable track links.

Painting schemes:

• Combat Engineers Battalion, 188th Brigade Barak (Lightning), IDF, Golan Heights, October 2015
• Combat Engineers Battalion, 401st Brigade, IDF, Golan Heights, June 2014
• 603 Combat Engineers Battalion, IDF, Operation Protective Edge, Gaza, November 2012

Historical background:

The D9R, also known as "Doobi," is an armored Caterpillar D9 bulldozer used by the IDF. This vehicle was supplied by Caterpillar Inc. and modified by the Israel Defense Forces and Israeli military industries to enhance its survivability in hostile environments and enable it to withstand attacks.

The D9R entered service with the IDF as standard equipment for engineering battalions in late 2003. It is widely used in the West Bank, Palestinian territories, and the Gaza Strip. Since 2005, the D9R has been equipped with slat armor, which effectively protects against RPG-7 attacks. Additionally, weapons such as machine guns and grenade launchers can be mounted on the cabin for self-defense.

The D9R is used by the IDF for various engineering tasks, such as earthworks, digging trenches, building fortifications, rescuing damaged combat vehicles, clearing mines and IEDs, as well as demolishing structures, even under fire. During numerous campaigns, IDF bulldozers have been used to demolish thousands of Palestinian homes in Gaza, leaving tens of thousands of people without shelter.

Assembly and painting kit. Does not include paints or glue. Assembly requires separately sold modeling tools (including cutters, files, tweezers), paints, brushes, and plastic model glue (e.g., Tamiya Extra Thin Cement). The photo shows a professionally assembled and painted model.