LRDG 1 1:35 crew figure set Thunder Models F35001

Plastic figure to assemble and paint: LRDG Crew Figures Set 1 1:35 Thunder Models F35001

The LRDG Crew Figures Set 1 1:35 Thunder Models F35001 is a unique proposition for model-making enthusiasts and World War II history buffs. This set consists of three intricately crafted resin figures depicting members of the legendary Long Range Desert Group (LRDG). The set includes figures of the driver and co-driver, which are also part of the TM35305 set, as well as a new, additional figure.

Product features:

• Scale: 1:35
• Material: Resin
• Contents: 3 detailed figures (driver, co-driver, additional figure)

History of LRDG: The Long Range Desert Group (LRDG) was a reconnaissance and raiding unit of the British Army during World War II. Initially known as Long Range Patrol (LRP), it was founded in Egypt in June 1940 by Major Ralph Alger Bagnold, operating under General Archibald Wavell. The unit mainly consisted of volunteers from New Zealand, as well as from Southern Rhodesia and Great Britain.

LRDG specialized in deep reconnaissance patrols and intelligence missions behind enemy lines, although it sometimes engaged in combat operations as well. Due to their expertise in desert navigation, LRDG often served as guides for other units, including the Special Air Service and secret agents. During the desert campaign between December 1940 and April 1943, LRDG vehicles operated continuously behind enemy lines, leaving only 15 days throughout this period.

One of the most well-known offensive actions of LRDG was Operation Caravan, an attack on the town of Barce and its airfield on the night of September 13, 1942. However, their most important role was the "Road Watch" operation, during which they secretly monitored traffic on the main road from Tripoli to Benghazi, relaying the gathered information to the British Army command.

After the surrender of Axis forces in Tunisia in May 1943, LRDG changed its tasks and moved operations to the eastern Mediterranean, conducting missions on Greek islands, in Italy, and in the Balkans. After the war in Europe ended, LRDG commanders submitted a request to the War Ministry to transfer the unit to the Far East to conduct operations against the Japanese Empire. The request was denied, and LRDG was disbanded in August 1945.

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.