Stug IV SD.KFZ.167 (Early) 1:35 Academy 13522

Plastic military model kit: StuG IV Sd.Kfz.167 (early) 1:35 Academy 13522

The StuG IV Sd.Kfz.167 (early) model kit in 1:35 scale from the renowned company Academy is an excellent proposition for model-making enthusiasts and history buffs of World War II. This detailed set allows for the recreation of one of the most effective German assault guns that played a key role in the later stages of the conflict.

Model characteristics:

• Scale: 1:35
• Manufacturer: Academy
• Catalog number: 13522
• Material: Plastic

History and development of the StuG IV: The Sturmgeschütz IV (StuG IV) was a German assault gun that emerged in response to front-line needs in the later stages of World War II. It was a variant of the Panzer IV, serving as a tank destroyer, similar to its predecessor, the StuG III. Both models were crucial in German defensive strategy, especially in the last two years of the war when Germany's armored resources were significantly limited.

The first plans for the StuG IV appeared in February 1943 when Krupp proposed using the Panzer IV chassis combined with the StuG III superstructure. However, this project was initially abandoned due to excessive weight. It was only after the Führer's conference in August 1943, where Adolf Hitler recognized the effectiveness of the StuG III in infantry support, that work on the StuG IV was resumed. Due to Allied bombings that damaged the Alkett factories producing the StuG III, the production of the StuG IV gained importance.

From December 1943 to May 1945, Krupp produced 1111 units of the StuG IV. Although this number was significantly lower than the over 10,000 StuG III produced, the StuG IV effectively supported military operations on both the Eastern and Western fronts.

Design features: The StuG IV was known as an effective tank destroyer, particularly on the Eastern front. It had a four-man crew, and its design was optimized for infantry support. The crew consisted of a commander, gunner, loader, and driver, allowing for effective use of the vehicle in combat.

Preserved examples: Currently, there are six preserved examples of the StuG IV that can be admired in various museums around the world. In Poland, one is located in the Orzeł Biały Museum in Skarżysko-Kamienna, and another in the Armored Weapons Museum in Poznań, where it is fully operational. Other examples can be found in Australia, Russia, and Latvia.

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