About this kit
The Sd.Kfz.171 Panther Ausf.D was the first production version of Germany's medium tank, rushed into service in time for Operation Zitadelle at Kursk in July 1943. This release depicts a vehicle of the 52nd Panzer Battalion, 39th Panzer Regiment, one of the independent Panther units thrown into the battle straight from the factory, where mechanical teething troubles - engine fires and transmission failures - were as much a threat as Soviet anti-tank guns.
Marketed as a Dragon Premium Edition, this kit steps beyond a standard armour build with a highly detailed interior encompassing the fighting compartment, engine bay and running gear, moulded using Dragon's slide-mould technology to capture the Panther's long-barrelled 7.5cm KwK 42 gun, sloped glacis plate and early "letterbox" driver's visor. Photo-etched brass parts are included for engine grilles, stowage brackets and other fine details plastic alone cannot replicate.
Decals and markings are provided specifically for the 52nd Battalion at Kursk, allowing an historically accurate build of one of the earliest Panthers committed to combat, complete with individual workable track links and the early-pattern turret features unique to the Ausf.D.
With its opening-up interior and unit-specific markings, this kit rewards experienced modellers wanting a museum-quality replica of one of the most significant - and most troubled - tank debuts of the war.
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