Dragon Models 1:72 Armor Collector Series 60374
M4A2 Sherman Display Model
USMC 1st Amphibious Corps Tank Btn, #54 "Destroyer", Tarawa Atoll, 1943, Beach Landing Diorama |
| 1:72 Scale | | Length | | Width |
|---|
| M4A2 Sherman | | 3.25" | | 1.5" |
Betio is Tarawa's main island, though it is less than 3 miles long and half a mile wide. In 1943 this diminutive island and its airfield were defended by 4700 Japanese troops in a labyrinth of pillboxes and trenches surrounded by barbed wire and minefields. The daunting task of capturing the island fell upon the 2nd Division of the U.S. Marine Corps. As the assault began on 20 November 1943, Marines wading through the waist-deep water and razor-sharp coral of the beaches were mown down by machine-gun fire. It was not till the next day that the Marines, supported by tanks and artillery, could break out from the bloody sands of Tarawa. Savage fighting continued for two more days until the island was won.
A vital element in prosecuting the attack was the M4A2 Sherman tank. Now Dragon Armor has introduced a sublime 1/72 scale model of an M4A2 on Tarawa. The model is of a Sherman of Company D, 1st Marine Amphibious Corps Tank Battalion. Designed to supplement those lighter M3 tanks already in service, the battalion had four companies (each with three platoons of four tanks, plus an HQ platoon) of M4 tanks. This model shows "Destroyer" of D Company painted in typical USMC painting and with an array of markings added. In the Battle of Tarawa, Marines suffered nearly 3000 casualties, and of the 4700 Japanese defenders, only 17 survived. For those wishing to commemorate or model this fierce battle, then this Dragon Armor item will prove indispensable.
The pilot model of the M4 was completed in September 1941, and the Sherman became the most widely produced tank of the war. The M4 Sherman defeated heavier tanks with superior numbers, and by using outflanking tactics to strike thinner enemy flank armor. Shermans also achieved success with progressively upgunned models and by working with tank destroyers. The Sherman tank--named by the British--was fast, maneuverable, mechanically reliable, easy to manufacture, and effective in its infantry support role. It served with the US Army and Marines during World War II, and the US transferred large numbers to the United Kingdom and allied forces of many countries. © Copyright 2003-2026 The Flying Mule, Inc.
Dragon's 1:72 scale M4 Sherman is constructed almost entirely of diecast plastic, which provides for the greatest possible level of detailing. Featuring a 360-degree rotating turret with elevating cannon, this model has hatches, hinges, welded amour plating and a turret that are all stunningly accurate, and the same level of detailing has been applied to the vehicle's track system. The model's underside features forward crew escape hatch, engine compartment access panels and wheel suspension components. Additional detailing includes delicate guards that shield both head lamps and textured lenses and tail lights. Subtle airbrushed weathering with hand-painted tools and equipment add a finishing touch.
© Copyright 2003-2014 The Flying Mule, Inc.
The Dragon Models "1:72 Dragon Armor Collector Series" range presents highly-detailed, ready-made plastic models of military vehicles. Dragon Armor tanks require no glueing or painting. Each model is an instant display piece or diorama centerpiece straight from the box and is 100% true to scale... these don't look like model tanks, they look like tanks!. Color, camouflage and unit markings are carefully researched for Maximum authenticity, marking the difference between and authentic scale model tank and a "toy" tank.
Dragon Models "1:72 Dragon Armor Collector Series" display model vehicles feature:
- Molded plastic construction (some releases include diecast metal components).
- Rotating turret, elevating cannon and accurate hull.
- Painted, fitted, non-moving tracks and detailed non-rotating wheels.
- Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
- Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
- Clear acrylic display case to protect model.
© Copyright 2003-2026 The Flying Mule, Inc.
