Infantry Tank Mk. III “Valentine” Mk. XI (OP)

Plastic kit from BRONCO, for the asembly of a British tank Mk. III “Valentine” Mk. XI (OP) of WW II, on 1/35 scale. Includes sprues with plastic parts, clear parts, assembly instructions, P.E. parts and decals.

The "Valentine" infantry tank designed and manufactured by Vickers is a cheap alternative to the A12 infantry tank Mk.II type "Matilda". Its design concept is based on the A10E3 infantry tank, but the hull and turret have been improved. Since Vickers is a private joint venture, there is no "A" in front of its title serial number. The design of this tank was submitted to the War Office on February 14, 1940, on St. "Valentine's" Day. The first "Valentine" tank entered service in 1941, and all early models were characterized by the 2-pounder gun, but this gun has become increasingly obsolete. The'Valentin' Mk.IX equipped with a 6-pounder gun appeared in 1942, and the later produced the'Valentin' Mk.XI was equipped with a 75mm gun. This weapon is to modify the 6-pound barrel caliber to 75 mm, so that it can use the same ammunition as the US M4 Sherman tank. The Mk.XI type was mainly sent to the Soviet Union, and part of it was reserved by the British army for training or as an armored observation post (AOP) tank for the Royal Artillery Unit. As an infantry support tank, it has a road speed of up to 24 kilometers. Although its speed is not fast, its agility and reliable performance can make up for its lack of speed. Its 65mm armor gives the crew a good protection.