U.S. M18 Hellcat Tank Destroyer 1:35 Model Kit by Tamiya

Model Features

Build one of the fastest armoured fighting vehicles of the Second World War with the Tamiya U.S. M18 Hellcat Tank Destroyer 1:35 Model Kit. This highly detailed kit accurately recreates the iconic M18 Hellcat, 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 WWII armour enthusiasts, military vehicle collectors and diorama builders alike.

Specifications

• Scale: 1:35
• Manufacturer: Tamiya
• Vehicle: U.S. M18 Hellcat Tank Destroyer
• Finely detailed plastic parts
• Detailed open fighting compartment 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 M18 Hellcat was an American tank destroyer developed during the Second World War to provide U.S. Army forces with a highly mobile vehicle capable of rapidly engaging enemy armour. Entering service in 1944, it was built around the U.S. tank destroyer doctrine, which prioritised speed and manoeuvrability over heavy armour.

Powered by a Continental R-975 nine-cylinder radial engine, the M18 could reach speeds of up to 55 mph (89 km/h), making it the fastest fully tracked armoured fighting vehicle of the Second World War. This exceptional mobility allowed Hellcat crews to quickly reposition, outflank enemy tanks and exploit favourable firing positions before relocating to avoid return fire.

The M18 was armed with the effective 76mm M1 gun, capable of defeating many German armoured vehicles, including the Panzer IV and, under favourable conditions, the Panther and Tiger. Its open-topped turret provided excellent visibility and rapid target acquisition, although it offered less protection against artillery fragments and small-arms fire than fully enclosed designs.

The Hellcat first saw combat during the Italian Campaign before serving extensively in France, Belgium and Germany following the D-Day landings. It proved particularly successful during the Battle of the Bulge, where its speed and firepower enabled U.S. forces to respond quickly to German armoured breakthroughs and conduct effective counterattacks.

Around 2,500 M18 Hellcats were produced, and the vehicle remained in service with several countries long after the war ended. Today, the M18 is widely regarded as one of the most successful tank destroyers ever built, admired for its outstanding mobility, dependable performance and innovative design.

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.