Tamiya 35279 - 1/35 French MBT Leclerc Series 2  [35279]

• This present year's Big Item into the fixed models category has to end up being the Leclerc French Main Battle Tank. This luxurious model is dependant on reference materials obtained from the French armed forces by Tamiya's French designer, offering united states a truly privileged possibility to add this excellent model to our 1/35 contemporary battle tank selection.
• Towards Leclerc
  Deployed in 1993, another generation contemporary battle tank Leclerc is a truly innovative war device. It was one of the first tanks to feature a sophisticated electronics system that features complete computerization of functions like targeting, control and communications. The Leclerc's distinctively shaped turret mounts a 52 caliber 120mm cannon with a computerized loading device, effective at firing 10 rounds per minute. Modular armor system makes fix and upgrading simpler than ever before. The tank is powered by a compact, 4-stroke V-8 diesel engine and features gas turbines for auxiliry energy. Weighing an overall total of 56 tons, the Leclerc has a lightweight and well-balanced chassis, adding to speed and flexibility. Introduced in 1997, the Leclerc Series 2 features a turret-mounted air conditioning equipment to cool the computer system
• Leclerc as retold by Tamiya's French designer
  In July 2004, I'd the honor of visiting the 6-12th Cuirassier Regiment of the French Army to attempt a 2-day photo shoot of this French MBT Leclerc. The 6-12th Cuirassier Regiment is situated at Olivet, a tiny town just south of Orleans. Orleans is an attractive town situated on the Loire river, and it is renowned the 1429 Siege of Orleans, certainly one of Joan of Arc's most well-known victories.

  The 6-12th Cuirassier Regiment traces its origins back again to early 19th century and also the Napoleon Army. This unit happens to be part of the 2nd armored brigade, formerly referred to as second armored unit that has been led by General Leclerc during WWII. The regiment comes with 80 Leclerc main battle tanks arranged into 2 groups of 40, which will be further sub-divided into 3 squadrons of 13 tanks, and something tank the squadron commander.

  After meeting up with Tamiya Europe staff in Orleans, we headed on base and underwent identification checks before obtaining clearance to enter. I was very honored to check out this device as it is recognized as very capable units regarding the French Army. We had been then introduced to Colonel Charles Beaudouin, commanding officer associated with 6-12th Cuirassier Regiment, and Lieutenant-Colonel Pierre Frouin, the executive officer. Colonel Beaudouin graduated from Saint-Cyr, the prestigious officer school for the French Army, and was closely mixed up in Leclerc's development, having been in charge of this system for just two years before presuming command of this 6-12th Cuirassier Regiment. He was very happy to greatly help Tamiya in developing a 1/35 scale model of the Leclerc as he's been making models since he had been 10-years-old.

  After a quick meeting arrived when to start out taking care of the Leclerc. The Leclerc is fairly a complex tank featuring some details, therefore it took the entire day to simply take all the photos we required. We had been extremely lucky because during our see one Leclerc ended up being undergoing upkeep, allowing united states the opportunity to just take pictures of suspension system and underside panel. We stayed at Olivet until 5:00pm prior to going back to Orleans where we remained for the evening. After an excellent nights rest, we returned to Olivet in order to complete off our photo shoot regarding the Leclerc. This day had been used mainly determine the real measurements of this tank, the ultimate way to ensure we offer Tamiya fans a replica because accurate as possible. With this main jobs achieved we were provided a tour regarding the center including a presentation of simulators used to train crews. We then stated goodbye to our hosts and started our long journey home.

  With this particular being my first photo shoot, the experience was quite unique. I'd the chance to see perhaps one of the most effective tanks on earth and meet dedicated people whoever task is to protect their homeland. We packed these emotions of excitement and respect with me as I headed back again to Japan, on a regular basis taking into consideration the simplest way to turn these photos and feelings into an excellent 1/35 scale model that can enjoy.

  
  

Specs and qualities:

• 1/35 scale model accurately reproduces the Leclerc's distinctive modular armor.
• High accuracy molding faithfully depicts the Leclerc Series 2's complex structure even down to the tiniest details like smoke dischargers and commander's cupola.
• First model to feature die-cast road wheels, for practical weight and tank-like solidity.
• Impressively illustrates 120mm cannon with thermal sleeve.
• Commander's sight can turn and has lenses produced from clear parts.
• Comes with clear components for head and tail lights.
• Includes 4 types of markings and 1 commander figure.