1:35 M48A3 (Smart Kit) Carson 773546 500773546

Dragon recently released an M48A3 Mod.B version, but this has now been followed by a regular M48A3. The M48 was a development of the M47, and it performed an interim role until the arrival of the M60 main battle tank. For a time the M48 Patton was the primary tank of the US Army & US Marine Corps (USMC), and it fought in Vietnam, as well as defended Western Europe from Warsaw Pact forces. Additionally, it served in the militaries of some US allies. This kit represents the M48A3, which the US Army accepted into service in February 1963 and the USMC the following year. M48A3s featured a new diesel engine and a range of features were apparent because all were converted from older M48 variants.

Dragon’s kit builds on the previous release depicting a M48A3 Mod.B variant. However, there are some important changes, including a NEW searchlight. The canvas mantlet cover is new too, this being formed from DS to authentically replicate the original material. The fenders are brand new as well.

The kit is carefully based on detailed research of surviving original tanks, and the designer has used different methods to reproduce the form of the M48A3, especially the curved shape of the cast turret. This accurately shaped turret even has subtle casting texture, including embossed casting numbers. The tank has been produced with modeling convenience in mind too, with such features as easy-fitting DS tracks. With Dragon’s knowhow and technological skills being applied to this fairly modern subject, this second M48A3 kit will please a great many modelers.