Tamiya 35154 - 1:35 Challenger 1 Mk.3

1:35 scale plastic model kit of the British Challenger 1 Mk.3 main battle tank

Tamiya 35154 is a model kit for self-assembly depicting the Challenger 1 Mk.3 — the British main battle tank that proved itself in combat during the Gulf War of 1991. Its massive shape with Chobham composite armour, the long 120 mm rifled gun and the distinctive stowage baskets give it a silhouette that is recognisable at a glance.

The kit was released in 1992 and is based on the 1986 tooling, supplemented with new parts corresponding to the Mk.3. The 338 mm long model comes with one-piece flexible tracks and nylon mesh for the baskets. The two figures — a commander in desert kit and a soldier in NATO overalls — allow you to set a scene either in Western Europe or in the desert.

What's in the box:

• Plastic parts for the hull, turret and equipment
• One-piece flexible tracks
• Nylon mesh for the stowage baskets
• Two figures: commander in desert kit and a soldier in NATO overalls
• Decal sheet with two marking options
• Illustrated assembly instructions

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:35
• Item number: 35154
• Manufacturer: Tamiya
• Assembled length: 338 mm
• Skill level: beginner

Please note: The kit does not include glue, paints or modelling tools. The model is intended for self-assembly.

Building the model:

The model goes together quickly and pleasantly: a large hull, well-fitting parts and one-piece flexible tracks keep work on the running gear short. The nylon mesh for the baskets needs a little care — we suggest cutting it with a sharp blade and fixing it at a few points so that it keeps a natural shape.

For the desert option we suggest a light sand tone (e.g. Tamiya XF-57 Buff as a base), and for the NATO scheme a combination of green, black and brown; the instructions give paint codes for both. Military vehicle models are usually finished with a matt varnish, and desert dust is easy to reproduce with pigments applied to the lower hull and running gear.

Tools you will need:

• Model sprue cutters
• Hobby knife or scalpel
• Files and sanding paper for cleaning up sprue gate marks
• Plastic cement (e.g. Tamiya Extra Thin Cement)
• Precision modelling tweezers
• Brushes in a range of sizes
• Model paints (acrylic or enamel)
• Wash to bring out details and recesses
• Optional: pigments for desert dust effects

About the vehicle – Challenger 1:

The Challenger 1 entered British service in the 1980s as the successor to the Chieftain. Its key strength was Chobham composite armour, providing a high level of protection against shaped-charge and kinetic-energy rounds. Its main armament was the 120 mm L11A5 rifled gun — the British stayed with a rifled barrel at a time when most armies were switching to smoothbores.

Power came from a 1,200 hp Perkins CV12 diesel engine driving a vehicle of around 62 tonnes. The four-man crew had a modern fire control system that proved its worth at long range and in poor visibility.

The real test came with Operation Desert Storm. British Challenger 1s of the 1st Armoured Division pushed deep into Iraq and destroyed Iraqi tanks at very long ranges. During the Gulf War not a single Challenger was lost in combat.

Original vehicle specifications (Challenger 1):

• Combat weight: approx. 62 t
• Crew: 4
• Main armament: 120 mm L11A5 rifled gun
• Armour: Chobham composite
• Powerplant: Perkins CV12 diesel, 1,200 hp
• Combat debut: Gulf War (1991), with no Challengers lost in combat

About the manufacturer – Tamiya:

Tamiya Corporation is a Japanese model company founded in 1946 by Yoshio Tamiya in Shizuoka, regarded as the centre of the Japanese model industry. The company initially traded in timber and produced wooden models, and in 1960 it launched its first plastic model kit. Two years later came the 1:35 scale tank that set the worldwide standard for military modelling. The brand is known for precise injection moulds and excellent parts fit, which is why its kits are chosen by beginners and experienced modellers alike. Tamiya instructions are clear and easy to follow, and the painting diagrams provide specific paint codes. The Military Miniature Series, to which this kit belongs, comprises hundreds of items covering vehicles, artillery and figures from across the twentieth century. Alongside plastic kits, Tamiya offers a full range of modelling accessories: paints, cements, tools and brushes. The company is present in dozens of countries and remains one of the most recognisable brands in the industry.