M60A2 Patton 1:35 Academy 13296

Plastic military model kit: M60A2 Patton 1:35 Academy 13296

We present the plastic model kit M60A2 Patton in 1:35 scale, produced by the renowned company Academy. This model is a great opportunity for military history and modeling enthusiasts to recreate one of the most iconic tanks of the Cold War era.

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:35
• Manufacturer: Academy
• Catalog number: 13296
• Material: Plastic

History and features of the M60A2 tank:

The M60A2 Patton is an American second-generation main battle tank that was an evolution of the earlier M48 Patton model. Although the M60 series was never officially named the Patton tank, it is often referred to as an "improved product" in relation to the Patton design. The M60A2, also known as "Starship" due to its advanced technological equipment, was one of the most innovative armored vehicles of its time.

The M60A2 featured a unique low-profile turret equipped with a 152 mm M162 gun/launcher. This turret significantly reduced the frontal surface area exposed to fire compared to earlier models. The tank was capable of firing both conventional HEAT anti-tank rounds and guided Shillelagh anti-tank missiles, making it a versatile tool on the battlefield.

The M60A2 was introduced into service in the 1970s and was primarily used by the U.S. Army in Europe. Its production began in 1973 and ended in 1975, with a total of 540 units produced. This tank was intended to serve as a temporary solution until the development of its successor, the MBT-70, was completed.

Combat application:

The M60A2 was used in various armed conflicts, including during the Yom Kippur War in 1973, where Israeli armed forces utilized it under the name "Magach 6." This tank proved effective in combat against comparable tanks such as the T-62. In 1982, during the Lebanon War, the M60A2 was equipped with additional reactive armor, which increased its resistance to guided missiles.

Technical issues:

Despite its advanced technology, the M60A2 faced many technical problems. The Shillelagh missile guidance system was complicated and required the shooter to keep the target in the sight throughout the missile's flight, which limited its effectiveness in dynamic combat conditions. Additionally, the tank could not fire or track targets while moving, which was a significant limitation.

Assembly and painting kit. Does not include paints or glue. To assemble, 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.