Tamiya 35368 - 1:35 JGSDF Light Armored Vehicle

1:35 scale plastic model kit of the JGSDF Light Armored Vehicle

The Komatsu LAV is a light wheeled armoured vehicle that has served with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force since 2002 — a mobile carrier for a four-man crew capable of up to 100 km/h. Tamiya 35368 reproduces it from tooling created in 2019, capturing the distinctive angular hull and the fine details of the external fittings.

The standout feature of the kit is the die-cast metal chassis, which gives the finished model real heft. The modeller can choose the equipment fit: smoke grenade launchers, a 5.56 mm MINIMI machine gun and different antennas. The hatch can be built open with the included driver figure in place, and separate mirror stickers are provided for the wing mirrors.

What's in the box:

• Plastic parts for the hull and equipment
• Die-cast metal chassis
• Optional smoke grenade launchers, 5.56 mm MINIMI machine gun and different antennas
• Driver figure
• Decal sheet for three marking options
• Mirror stickers for the wing mirrors
• Illustrated assembly instructions

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:35
• Product number: 35368
• Manufacturer: Tamiya
• Assembled model length: approx. 128 mm
• Skill level: beginner (modest parts count, no tracks)

Note: glue, paints and modelling tools are not included. This kit is intended for self-assembly.

Building the model:

This is one of the simpler Tamiya kits in 1:35 — compact, clearly broken down and very well fitting, which makes it a good first modern-vehicle project. It is worth degreasing the metal chassis and applying a primer before painting so that the paint adheres properly. The mirror stickers are best added right at the end, once all painting is complete.

For painting we suggest the two-tone JGSDF camouflage of dark green and brown (e.g. Tamiya XF-73 Dark Green JGSDF and XF-72 Brown JGSDF). Applying decals over a gloss coat helps avoid silvering, and a matt varnish makes a suitable final finish. A light wash brings out the panel lines and details, while pigments reproduce dust on the wheels and lower hull.

Tools you will need:

• Sprue cutters
• Hobby 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)
• Primer (useful on the metal chassis)
• A wash to emphasise detail and recesses
• Optional: pigments for dust effects

About the vehicle – Komatsu Light Armored Vehicle:

The Komatsu LAV was developed to meet the need for a fast, protected vehicle able to carry a small team of soldiers and support them with machine gun fire. It entered service with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force in 2002 and became one of its most widely used wheeled vehicles.

Its compact, lightweight design of around 4.5 tonnes allows air transport and easy movement in built-up areas. The vehicle carries a crew of four and, depending on the mission, can be fitted with smoke grenade launchers and a machine gun. LAVs accompanied Japanese troops on the mission to Iraq, where they were used for patrols and convoy escort duties.

Original vehicle specifications (Komatsu LAV):

• Weight: approx. 4.5 t
• Crew: 4
• Engine: diesel, 160 hp
• Top speed: up to 100 km/h
• Armament: machine gun (including the 5.56 mm MINIMI), smoke grenade launchers
• Service: with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force since 2002; deployed on the mission to Iraq

About the manufacturer – Tamiya:

Tamiya Corporation is a Japanese model company founded in 1946 by Yoshio Tamiya in Shizuoka, a city regarded as the centre of the Japanese model industry. The business began in timber and wooden models, and in 1960 it released its first injection-moulded plastic kit. Two years later came the 1:35 tank that established the scale as a worldwide standard for military modelling. The brand is known for precise moulds and outstanding parts fit, which is why its kits are chosen by beginners and experienced modellers alike. The Military Miniature Series, to which this kit belongs, runs to hundreds of releases and is one of the most comprehensive catalogues of 1:35 military vehicles anywhere. Alongside kits, Tamiya offers a full range of modelling accessories: paints, cements, tools and brushes. Today the company is present in dozens of countries and remains one of the most recognisable names in the hobby.