Israel Merkava Mk.2 w/ Full Interior and Workable Tracks 1:35 Border Model BT055

Plastic Military Model Kit: Israel Merkava Mk.2 w/ Full Interior and Workable Tracks 1:35 Border Model BT055

We present a detailed model kit of the Israeli Merkava Mk.2 main battle tank in 1:35 scale, produced by Border Model. This set is a treat for modeling enthusiasts and military history buffs, offering the opportunity to build one of the most iconic tanks used by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

Model Features:

• Scale: 1:35
• Manufacturer: Border Model
• Catalog Number: BT055
• Includes full tank interior
• Working tracks

History and Characteristics of the Merkava Mk.2 Tank:

Merkava, which means "chariot" in Hebrew, is a series of main battle tanks that form the backbone of the Israeli armored corps. The development of the Merkava tank began in 1970, and its first generation, the Merkava Mark 1, entered service in 1979. The Merkava Mk.2, introduced into service in 1983, was a response to the experiences of the 1982 Lebanon War and included numerous improvements over its predecessor.

The Merkava Mk.2 retained the 105 mm main gun and 7.62 mm machine guns known from the Mk.1 version. However, significant changes were made, such as relocating the 60 mm mortar to the interior of the hull, allowing for remote firing without exposing the operator to enemy fire. An Israeli automatic transmission was also installed, and the fuel tank capacity was increased, improving the operational range of the tank.

Additionally, the Merkava Mk.2 was equipped with anti-missile nets that increased its resistance to attacks from infantry armed with anti-tank missiles. The fire control system was improved by introducing new meteorological sensors, crosswind analyzers, and thermal optics and image intensifiers, which enhanced visibility and situational awareness on the battlefield.

In 2015, the IDF began a program to convert older Merkava Mk.2 models into heavy armored personnel carriers, allowing them to be used as medical, logistical, and rescue vehicles. As a result, the Merkava Mk.2 continues to play an important role in the Israeli armed forces, even though newer models, the Merkava III and IV, have taken its place on the battlefield.

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.