M36B2 US Army Battle of the Bulge 1:35 Academy 13501

Plastic model kit: M36B2 US Army Battle of the Bulge 1:35 Academy 13501

We present the M36B2 model kit, which is a faithful representation of the American tank destroyer M36, also known as the 90 mm Gun Motor Carriage, M36. This 1:35 scale model was created by the renowned company Academy and is an excellent choice for modeling enthusiasts and World War II history buffs.

Model features:

• Scale: 1:35
• Manufacturer: Academy
• Catalog number: 13501
• Material: Plastic
• Purpose: For assembly

History and significance of the M36:

The M36 was one of the most important American tank destroyers used during World War II. Its design combined the hull of the M10 tank destroyer, which was based on the reliable chassis and powertrain of the M4 Sherman tank, with a new turret equipped with a powerful 90 mm M3 gun. The M36 was designed in 1943 and first used in combat in Europe in October 1944, where it partially replaced the M10 tank destroyer.

Design and development:

Due to the emergence of heavy German tanks such as the Panther and Tiger, the standard American tank destroyer M10 quickly became outdated. Its main armament, the 3-inch M7 gun, struggled to penetrate the thick frontal armor of newer tanks at greater distances. In response, American engineers began work on a new tank destroyer armed with a 90 mm gun. After many tests and modifications, including changes to the turret and the addition of electric drive, the M36 was approved for production in June 1944.

Role in the Battle of the Bulge:

The M36B2 model is particularly associated with the Battle of the Bulge, also known as the Ardennes Offensive, which was the last major German offensive on the Western Front during World War II. This battle took place from December 16, 1944, to January 25, 1945, and was one of the bloodiest clashes involving American forces. The M36 played a crucial role in this battle, being one of the few armored vehicles available to U.S. forces that could destroy heavy German tanks from a distance.

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.