German self-propelled howitzer Panzerhaubitze 2000 1:35 Meng TS012

Plastic military model kit: German self-propelled howitzer Panzerhaubitze 2000 1:35 Meng TS012

The model kit of the German self-propelled howitzer Panzerhaubitze 2000 in 1:35 scale from Meng (TS012) is an excellent proposition for model-making enthusiasts and military history fans. This precisely crafted set allows for the recreation of the external appearance of the actual vehicle, which is one of the most modern artillery systems in the world.

Model features:

• Scale: 1:35
• Model length: 339 mm
• Model width: 102 mm
• Ability to build open or closed hatches for the commander and crew
• Movable suspension
• Easy to assemble, no glue required, movable track links
• Includes precise photo-etched parts and a metal barrel
• Five painting schemes to choose from

History and technical background of the Panzerhaubitze 2000:

The Panzerhaubitze 2000 (PzH 2000) is a self-propelled, armored howitzer produced by the German companies KNDS Deutschland and Rheinmetall. It is the standard artillery piece of the Bundeswehr, replacing the older M109 model. Between 1998 and 2003, the Bundeswehr received 185 units, some of which were later transferred to other countries, including Croatia and Lithuania. The PzH 2000 stands out with significantly better parameters compared to its predecessor, the M109. The effective firing range, accuracy, rate of fire, armor protection, and capability for independent operations have all been improved. The howitzer can be used in both conventional combat operations and asymmetric warfare scenarios, providing fire support.

Development and application:

The development of the PzH 2000 began in the 1980s when Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom decided to create a new artillery system that would meet the growing demands of the battlefield. After many tests and trials, in 1996, approval was granted for the howitzer to enter service with the Bundeswehr, and the first units were delivered to the troops in 1998. The PzH 2000 has been used in various armed conflicts, including in Afghanistan, where it proved its effectiveness in providing fire support at long distances. In recent years, due to the conflict in Ukraine, many of these howitzers have been transferred to the Ukrainian armed forces by various NATO countries.

Technical aspects:

The howitzer is equipped with a 155-mm barrel with a length of 52 calibers, allowing it to fire various types of NATO ammunition. The loading system is partially automated, which increases the rate of fire. The PzH 2000 can fire up to 3 rounds within 10 seconds, and its maximum range is up to 56 km using special V-LAP ammunition. The crew consists of five members, but the howitzer can be fully operational with three soldiers. The vehicle is powered by a 1000 HP diesel engine, providing it with mobility comparable to that of battle tanks.

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.