U.S. Airborne M551 Sheridan (Vietnam War) 1:35 Model Kit by Tamiya

Model Features

Build one of the most distinctive American armoured vehicles of the Vietnam War with the Tamiya U.S. Airborne M551 Sheridan (Vietnam War) 1:35 Model Kit. This highly detailed kit accurately recreates the M551 Sheridan in its Vietnam configuration, featuring finely moulded plastic parts, realistic surface detailing and authentic U.S. Army markings.

With Tamiya's renowned engineering and excellent fit, this kit offers an enjoyable building experience for modern military enthusiasts, collectors and diorama builders looking to recreate Vietnam War scenes.

Specifications

• Scale: 1:35
• Manufacturer: Tamiya
• Vehicle: U.S. Airborne M551 Sheridan (Vietnam War)
• Finely detailed plastic parts
• Detailed hull, turret and suspension
• Authentic U.S. Army 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 M551 Sheridan was a lightweight airborne reconnaissance tank developed for the United States Army during the 1960s. Designed to provide airborne and cavalry units with a highly mobile armoured vehicle, it entered service in 1967 and combined relatively light weight with impressive firepower, making it one of the most unconventional armoured vehicles of its era.

The Sheridan was armed with the 152mm M81 gun/launcher, capable of firing conventional high-explosive rounds as well as the MGM-51 Shillelagh guided anti-tank missile. While the missile system was rarely used in Vietnam, the powerful 152mm gun proved highly effective in infantry support, bunker destruction and jungle combat, where its large-calibre ammunition offered considerable firepower against enemy positions.

During the Vietnam War, the M551 was primarily employed by U.S. cavalry units for reconnaissance, convoy escort and direct fire support. Its aluminium armour kept the vehicle light enough for air transport but offered only limited protection against mines and anti-tank weapons. Despite this, crews appreciated its mobility, speed and ability to deliver overwhelming firepower in difficult terrain.

The Sheridan continued to serve with the U.S. Army after Vietnam, including during Operation Just Cause in Panama in 1989 and the Gulf War in 1991, where it supported airborne operations. Although eventually retired in the 1990s, it remained in use as a training vehicle for several years.

Today, the M551 Sheridan is remembered as one of the most innovative American armoured vehicles of the Cold War. Its unique combination of airborne mobility, advanced weapon systems and battlefield versatility secured its place in military history and made it a popular subject among military historians and scale modellers.

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.