German Sd.Kfz.222 Leichter Panzerspahwagen Afrika-Korps 1:35 Model Kit by Tamiya

Model Features

Build one of Germany's most recognisable reconnaissance vehicles of the North African Campaign with the Tamiya German Sd.Kfz.222 Leichter Panzerspähwagen Afrika-Korps 1:35 Model Kit. This highly detailed kit accurately recreates the Sd.Kfz.222 in Afrika Korps service, featuring finely moulded plastic parts, realistic armour detailing and authentic desert campaign markings.

With Tamiya's renowned engineering and excellent fit, this kit offers an enjoyable building experience for WWII military vehicle enthusiasts, collectors and diorama builders looking to recreate reconnaissance operations in the North African desert.

Specifications

• Scale: 1:35
• Manufacturer: Tamiya
• Vehicle: German Sd.Kfz.222 Leichter Panzerspähwagen (Afrika Korps)
• Finely detailed plastic parts
• Photo etch and aluminium gun barrel
• Detailed hull, suspension and turret
• Realistic armour and external equipment details
• Authentic Afrika Korps decal options
• Illustrated assembly instructions
• Assembly required
• Glue and paints not included

What's in the Box

• Plastic model kit parts
• Decal sheet
• Illustrated assembly instructions

History of the Original Vehicle

Historical Snapshot

The Sd.Kfz.222 Leichter Panzerspähwagen was one of Germany's principal light armoured reconnaissance vehicles during the Second World War. Developed from the earlier Sd.Kfz.221, it entered service in 1938 and was designed to provide fast-moving reconnaissance units with improved firepower, protection and mobility.

Unlike its predecessor, the Sd.Kfz.222 was armed with the highly effective 2cm KwK 30, and later the KwK 38 20mm autocannon, paired with a 7.92mm MG34 machine gun. This combination enabled it to engage enemy reconnaissance vehicles, lightly armoured targets and infantry while retaining the speed needed to avoid heavier opposition. Its distinctive open-topped turret, protected by mesh screens, provided excellent visibility while helping defend the crew from grenades.

Powered by a Horch V8 engine, the four-wheel-drive Sd.Kfz.222 could achieve speeds of approximately 80 km/h (50 mph) on roads and demonstrated excellent cross-country performance. Its agility made it ideally suited to reconnaissance patrols, screening advancing formations and gathering intelligence ahead of German armoured units.

The vehicle became particularly well known for its service with the Deutsches Afrikakorps (DAK) under General Erwin Rommel during the North African Campaign. In the vast desert environment, the Sd.Kfz.222's speed and long operational range made it invaluable for scouting enemy positions, protecting supply routes and conducting long-range patrols across the open terrain. It also saw extensive service in Poland, France, the Balkans, the Eastern Front and Western Europe.

Although later replaced by larger eight-wheeled armoured cars in some reconnaissance roles, the Sd.Kfz.222 remained in service throughout much of the war. Today, it is regarded as one of the most iconic German reconnaissance vehicles of the Second World War and remains a favourite subject among military historians and scale modelling enthusiasts.

Please Note

This is a plastic model kit and requires assembly. Glue, paints and modelling tools are sold separately. Due to the small parts and detailed assembly involved, this kit is recommended for experienced beginners and above.