Tamiya 35120 - 1/35 M48A3 Patton Tank Model Kit - Vietnam War Scale Modeller Edition  [35120]

Snapshot of the M48A3 Patton in 1/35 Scale

The Tamiya 1/35 U.S. M48A3 Patton kit captures a classic armoured vehicle that served during the Vietnam conflict. Built from designs first developed in the early 1950s by Chrysler, the M48 replaced earlier M47 tanks and introduced a cast elliptical hull and the Turtleback-style turret for improved crew protection.

Operational History and Design Highlights

Known for solid battlefield performance, the M48A3 was fitted with a 90mm M41 main gun, a 7.62mm coaxial machine gun, and a .50 cal on the commander's cupola, all of which are represented on the model. The kit references the Continental V-12 AV-1790 petrol engine that helped the vehicle reach about 48 km/h on roads.

Later marks of the M48A3 incorporated the AVDS-1970-2 diesel powerplant to improve endurance and serviceability. The kit allows modellers to reflect common field additions and the adaptable nature of the platform.

Why Model This Tank

For hobbyists focused on historical modelling, the kit provides precise detailing including a coincidence-type range finder and the five-bogie wheel layout typical of Vietnam service tanks. Once built and painted, this model makes a strong display element in a Cold War or Vietnam diorama.