Tamiya 35361 - 1:35 JGSDF MCV Type 16

1:35 scale plastic model kit of the Japanese JGSDF MCV Type 16

The Type 16 MCV is a modern wheeled combat vehicle of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, designed to be moved quickly by air to a threatened area. Its 8×8 drive, powerful diesel engine and 105 mm rifled gun combine the mobility of a carrier with firepower close to that of a tank.

Tamiya 35361 is based on new tooling from 2018. It reproduces the angular, modern shapes of the hull and turret, the elaborate running gear and the external equipment. The rubber tyres make it easy to achieve a realistic look for the wheels, and two figures help bring the finished model to life.

What's in the box:

• Plastic parts for the hull, turret and chassis
• Rubber tyres
• 2 figures
• Waterslide decal sheet for 3 marking options
• Illustrated assembly instructions

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:35
• Catalogue number: 35361
• Manufacturer: Tamiya
• Assembled model length: approx. 241 mm
• Skill level: beginner

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

Assembly:

The build progresses quickly — the large, well-fitting hull parts soon come together into the vehicle's distinctive shape, and fitting the eight wheels with rubber tyres is straightforward. It is worth aligning the axles carefully so that the finished model stands firmly on all wheels.

The two-tone camouflage used by the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, based on dark green and brown, is a good choice (e.g. Tamiya XF-73 Dark Green JGSDF and XF-72 Brown JGSDF). The instructions give the manufacturer's paint codes for the three marking options. Applying the decals over a gloss coat helps avoid silvering, and a matt varnish makes a suitable final finish. For those seeking extra sharpness, the Tamiya 12686 metal gun barrel is available separately — an accessory sold on its own and not included in this kit.

Tools required:

• Sprue cutters
• Modelling knife or scalpel
• Files and sanding paper for cleaning up gate marks
• Plastic cement (e.g. Tamiya Extra Thin Cement)
• Brushes in various sizes
• Model paints (acrylic or enamel)
• Gloss varnish for decals and matt varnish for the final finish
• Wash to bring out detail
• Optional: pigments for dust effects

About the vehicle – Type 16 MCV:

A changing threat picture led the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force to look for a vehicle combining tank-like firepower with strategic mobility. The answer was the Type 16 Mobile Combat Vehicle — an 8×8 wheeled combat vehicle that entered service in 2016.

Its armament is a 105 mm rifled gun capable of engaging armoured vehicles and destroying fortifications. A Mitsubishi diesel engine of 570 hp gives a road speed of up to 100 km/h, and a combat weight of around 26 tonnes allows air transport — a key requirement for the defence of the extensive Japanese archipelago.

The Type 16 is designed for rapid response: covering long distances under its own power or by air and providing fire support on arrival. Its four-man crew is supported by modern observation and fire-control systems.

Original vehicle specifications (Type 16 MCV):

• Length: approx. 8.45 m
• Combat weight: approx. 26 t
• Crew: 4
• Main armament: 105 mm rifled gun
• Powerplant: Mitsubishi diesel engine, 570 hp
• Drive: 8×8 wheeled
• Top speed: up to 100 km/h
• In service: since 2016

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 began in the timber trade and wooden products, releasing its first plastic model kit in 1960. Two years later came its first 1:35 scale tank — a scale that, thanks to Tamiya, became the worldwide standard for armour modelling. The brand is known for precise injection moulds, well-thought-out kit engineering and excellent parts fit, which is why its kits are chosen by beginners and experienced modellers alike. The Military Miniature Series, to which this kit belongs, comprises hundreds of releases covering both modern and historical vehicles from around the world. Tamiya instructions are clear, richly illustrated and include paint codes from the company's own range. Alongside model kits, Tamiya offers a full range of accessories: paints, cements, putties, tools and brushes. Today the company is present in dozens of countries and remains one of the most recognisable brands in the hobby.