German 10.5 cm field howitzer leFH 18 1:72 First To Fight PL037

Plastic model kit: German field howitzer 10.5 cm leFH 18 1:72 First To Fight PL037

The model kit: German field howitzer 10.5 cm leFH 18 in 1:72 scale from First To Fight is an excellent proposition for model-making enthusiasts and history buffs of World War II. This detailed model represents one of the most important artillery units of the Wehrmacht, which played a key role on many fronts during the conflict.

Model features:

• Scale: 1:72
• Manufacturer: First To Fight
• Catalog number: PL037

History and use of the 10.5 cm leFH 18 howitzer:

The 10.5 cm leFH 18 howitzer, known as the "light field howitzer," was introduced into service in the Wehrmacht on July 26, 1935, replacing the earlier leFH 16 model. It was the standard divisional artillery used by the German armed forces during World War II. Between 1935 and 1945, 11,848 units of this howitzer were produced, which attests to its significance and popularity.

The leFH 18 howitzer was known for its effectiveness and reliability. With a modern carriage featuring split trails, it provided greater stability and maneuverability, although it was somewhat too heavy for mobile operations, especially in the harsh conditions of the Eastern Front. Nevertheless, its caliber and range were sufficient to effectively support German armored divisions.

During the North African campaign, the leFH 18 howitzer played a significant role in the Battle of Sidi Rezegh, where the motorized batteries of the 33rd Artillery Regiment of the 15th Panzer Division contributed to the defeat of British armored units. On the Eastern Front, during the Soviet counteroffensive near Moscow, German artillery units often had to abandon their guns due to severe winter conditions.

Export and foreign users:

Before 1938, the leFH 18 howitzer was exported to countries such as Hungary and Spain. Between 1943 and 1944, 166 units were delivered to Bulgaria, and 53 to Finland, where they were known as 105 H 33. Sweden purchased 142 howitzers, which were used until 1982 under the name Haubits m/39. Other countries that acquired this model include Norway, Portugal, and Slovakia.

Assembly and painting kit. Does not include paints or glue. For assembly, separately sold modeling tools are needed (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.