Tamiya 35329 - 1:35 Type 10 Tank Japan GSDF

1:35 scale plastic model kit of the Japanese Type 10 (JGSDF) tank

Tamiya 35329 reproduces the Type 10 – the latest-generation main battle tank of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF). The vehicle was unveiled in 2010 and began entering units in 2012 as a successor to the long-serving Type 74. Among its many improvements over the previous Type 90 are a Japanese 120 mm smoothbore gun and a C4I network system, enabling information sharing and coordinated action with other vehicles.

The model is made from new tooling, based on detailed study carried out with the cooperation of the JGSDF. It captures the modern, wedge-shaped form of the tank with modular armour on the turret and hull. The fine non-slip texture, rubber side skirts with a ripple effect, and rear details (loading hatch, antenna, grille, exhaust duct, tow cables) are reproduced with great care.

What's in the box:

• Plastic sprues with hull, turret and modular armour
• Japanese 120 mm smoothbore gun
• M2 heavy machine gun and commander's hatch
• Rubber side skirts with a ripple effect
• Belt-type tracks (double-pin, single-block)
• Mesh to reproduce the rack
• Two figures: commander and gunner
• Decal sheet for three marking options (including the JGSDF Fuji School)
• Illustrated assembly instructions

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:35
• Item number: 35329
• Manufacturer: Tamiya
• Assembled length: approx. 270 mm
• Skill level: beginner/intermediate

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, and the assembly is designed to go smoothly. The figures are best painted separately before being placed on the vehicle.

For painting, the characteristic two-colour JGSDF camouflage (dark green and brown) 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 – Type 10:

The Type 10 is the latest-generation main battle tank in service with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, joining its predecessors: the Type 61, Type 74 and Type 90. The vehicle was unveiled in 2010 (hence the “10” designation) and began entering units in 2012. It is relatively small and agile, with its design oriented toward high mobility.

The tank is armed with a Japanese 120 mm smoothbore gun and fitted with modular armour on the turret and hull, allowing the level of protection to be tailored to the mission. The Type 10 works with a modern C4I network system enabling information sharing and coordinated operations. The vehicle is regarded as a natural successor to the long-serving Type 74 tank.

Original specifications (Type 10):

• Length with gun: approx. 9.4 m
• Width: approx. 3.2 m
• Height: approx. 2.3 m
• Combat weight: approx. 44 t
• Crew: 3
• Main armament: Japanese 120 mm smoothbore gun
• Secondary armament: M2 heavy machine gun and a machine gun
• Powerplant: diesel engine, approx. 1200 hp
• Suspension: hydropneumatic
• Equipment: modular armour, C4I network system

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.