Tamiya 35326 - 1:35 M1A2 SEP Abrams Tusk II

1:35 scale plastic model kit of the U.S. M1A2 SEP Abrams TUSK II tank

Tamiya 35326 reproduces the M1A2 SEP Abrams in TUSK II configuration – a modern U.S. main battle tank adapted for combat in urban terrain. During the occupation of Iraq after 2003, the Abrams tanks faced new threats from rocket-propelled grenades and improvised explosive devices. In response, Tank Urban Survival Kits (TUSK) were developed.

The model allows the vehicle to be built in the more elaborate TUSK II configuration or the earlier TUSK I. The TUSK II version is distinguished by tile-shaped reactive armour on the turret and hull sides and by the commander and loader shields. The complex armour parts are designed for easy assembly with few parts.

What's in the box:

• Plastic sprues with the latest M1A2 hull and clear parts
• Tile-shaped reactive armour on turret and hull sides (TUSK II version)
• Parts allowing a TUSK II or TUSK I configuration
• Commander and loader shields (clear parts)
• M2 heavy machine gun above the main gun and a spotlight
• Vapor Compression Unit (VCU) at the hull rear
• Vinyl belt tracks
• Two figures: commander and loader
• Decal sheet for three marking options
• Illustrated assembly instructions

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:35
• Item number: 35326
• Manufacturer: Tamiya
• Assembled length: 280 mm, width: 127 mm
• Skill level: beginner/intermediate (elaborate armour, clear parts)

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

Building the model:

Thanks to the excellent part fit typical of Tamiya, the model is approachable even for less experienced builders. The choice of building the TUSK II or TUSK I version is best made at the start of assembly, as it affects the selection of armour parts. The clear-part shields are best painted and fitted carefully to preserve their transparency.

For painting, the typical U.S. CARC sand colour is recommended, matching the chosen marking option. Military vehicles are usually finished with a matt varnish, and the detail and recesses benefit from a wash.

Tools you'll need:

• Modelling side cutters for removing parts from the sprues
• Hobby knife or scalpel
• Files and sandpaper for cleaning up sprue-gate marks
• Polystyrene cement (e.g. Tamiya Extra Thin Cement)
• Brushes of various sizes
• Model paints (acrylic or enamel)
• A wash to emphasise detail and recesses
• Optionally: pigments for dust and mud effects

About the vehicle – M1A2 SEP Abrams TUSK II:

The M1 Abrams is the main battle tank of the U.S. Army, powered by a gas turbine and armed with a 120 mm smoothbore gun. The M1A2 SEP (System Enhancement Package) variant introduced extensive improvements to the electronics and onboard systems. During the occupation of Iraq after 2003, these tanks faced new threats in urban combat.

In response, the TUSK urban survival kit was developed. The TUSK I version added, among other things, block-shaped reactive armour on the hull sides, belly armour against mines, an additional heavy machine gun above the main gun, thermal cameras and a telephone for communication with accompanying infantry. The TUSK II development added tile-shaped reactive armour on the turret and hull sides, a commander's shield and a rear-view camera. This equipment was not fitted to all M1A2 SEPs.

Original specifications (M1A2 SEP Abrams):

• Length with gun: approx. 9.8 m
• Width: approx. 3.66 m (more with additional armour)
• Height: approx. 2.44 m
• Combat weight: approx. 63 t (more with the TUSK kit)
• Crew: 4
• Main armament: 120 mm M256 smoothbore gun
• Secondary armament: 12.7 mm M2 heavy machine gun and 7.62 mm machine guns
• Powerplant: AGT-1500 gas turbine, approx. 1500 hp
• Maximum speed: approx. 67 km/h (road)
• Armour: composite, reinforced with the TUSK kit

About the manufacturer – Tamiya:

Tamiya Corporation is a Japanese model company founded in 1946 by Yoshio Tamiya in Shizuoka, regarded as the heart of the Japanese model industry. The company initially traded in timber, but from the late 1940s it produced wooden models, and in 1960 it launched its first plastic assembly kit. Two years later it introduced its iconic 1:35 scale tank, which set the worldwide standard scale for military modelling. The brand is renowned for exceptionally precise injection moulds and excellent part fit, which is why its kits are favoured by beginners and experienced modellers alike. The Military Miniature Series, to which this model belongs, comprises hundreds of items and is considered one of the most comprehensive 1:35 catalogues of military vehicles in the world. Alongside plastic kits, Tamiya offers a full range of modelling supplies: paints, glues, tools and brushes.