US M26 (T26E3) Pershing Heavy Tank 1:72 Model Kit by Trumpeter
Model Features
- 1:72 scale plastic model kit
- Accurately represents the US M26 (T26E3) Pershing Heavy Tank
- Finely detailed hull and turret
- Realistic 90mm T15E2M2 main gun
- Detailed suspension and running gear
- Authentic armour plating and exterior equipment
- Precision-moulded plastic parts
- Waterslide decal sheet included
- Illustrated assembly instructions
- Ideal for display or World War II and early Cold War diorama projects
Specifications
- Brand: Trumpeter
- Scale: 1:72
- Subject: US M26 (T26E3) Pershing Heavy Tank
- Material: Injection-moulded plastic
- Skill Level: Suitable for intermediate modellers
- Paint & Glue Required: Yes (sold separately)
- Recommended Age: 14+
What's in the Box
- Plastic sprues
- Waterslide decal sheet
- Illustrated assembly instructions
History of the Original Vehicle
The M26 Pershing was the United States Army's first true heavy tank to enter service and was developed to counter the increasingly powerful German armoured vehicles encountered during the later years of the Second World War. Originally designated the T26E3, the vehicle was the result of a long development process aimed at creating a tank with greater protection and firepower than the existing M4 Sherman. Following successful trials, the T26E3 was standardised as the M26 Pershing in 1945.
Armed with the powerful 90mm T15E2M2 gun, the Pershing provided American crews with a significant improvement in anti-armour capability. Its thick sloped armour and modern suspension design offered improved battlefield protection, while the reliable Ford GAF V8 engine provided mobility suitable for European operations. Although classified as a heavy tank during development, it was later redesignated as a medium tank due to changes in US armoured doctrine.
The first Pershings reached Europe in early 1945 and saw combat during the final months of the war, most notably during the Allied advance into Germany. The tank gained attention during engagements such as the fighting in Cologne, where its powerful gun proved capable of defeating German heavy tanks. Although only a limited number saw wartime service, the Pershing represented an important step in American tank development and formed the basis for future post-war designs, including the M46 Patton.
Following the Second World War, the M26 continued to serve during the Korean War, where it proved highly effective against North Korean armoured forces. Its combination of firepower, protection, and mobility marked the transition from wartime tank designs to the modern main battle tank era.
Historical Snapshot
- Country: United States
- Entered Service: 1945
- Role: Heavy Tank (later classified as Medium Tank)
- Manufacturer: Fisher Tank Arsenal, Detroit Tank Arsenal
- Crew: 5
- Primary Armament: 90mm T15E2M2 gun
- Secondary Armament: One .50 calibre M2 Browning machine gun and two .30 calibre Browning machine guns
- Engine: Ford GAF V8 petrol engine
- Top Speed: 40 km/h (25 mph)
Please Note
This is an unassembled plastic model kit. Paint, glue, and modelling tools are not included. Recommended for ages 14 and over.