June 23, 2021
Soviet Heavy tank KV-1 Model 1939 (Trumpeter Kit).
Ukraine, Summer 1941.
Selected for production after combat trials against the Finns in Winter of 1939 to replace the obsolete and mechanically unreliable T-35, The KV-1 became the main Soviet heavy tank from 1940-44 when the JS series came into service. This model was the first production variant and deliveries were in1940 totaling 141 tanks distinguishable by the low slung L11 gun mount. The Germans only became aware of these new heavy tanks in June 1941 when they encountered them in their invasion of the Soviet Union (Operation Barbarosa). KV-1's were better armed and armored than any German tank in 1941 (and until mid 1942) and proved extremely difficult to deal with. in 1942, surviving Model 1939 KV-1's were reworked with additional armored panels and improved F32 gun.
Stats:
Crew- 4
Armament - 76.2mm L11 gun
-3x 7.62 MG's
Armor - 30 - 100mm
Weight -45 tons
Powerplant - 600 HP 12 cylinder diesel.
Maximum Speed - 26 mph