ICM Figure Set

ICM Tankabwehr 1918 German WWI Soldiers (1/35) 35724

The ICM Tankabwehr 1918 German WWI Soldiers set recreates a fascinating chapter in military history, depicting one of the first dedicated anti-tank units ever fielded. Produced in 1/35 scale, this detailed figure set represents German soldiers equipped with the pioneering Mauser Tankgewehr M1918 anti-tank rifle and the MG 08 machine gun as they prepare to engage enemy armoured vehicles during the final stages of the First World War.

The introduction of British tanks on the Western Front in 1916 presented a completely new battlefield challenge. Early German responses relied on improvised tactics and armour-piercing ammunition, but the increasing use of tanks soon demanded specialised weapons. This led to the development of the Mauser Tankgewehr M1918, the world’s first purpose-built anti-tank rifle, designed specifically to penetrate armoured vehicles.

This figure set depicts a German anti-tank defence team operating both the powerful Tankgewehr M1918 and an MG 08 machine gun. The figures are posed to create a realistic battlefield scene, reflecting the tactics used by German forces when engaging enemy armour. Uniforms, personal equipment and weapons have been accurately reproduced, making the set suitable for both standalone display and incorporation into larger First World War dioramas.

With a total of 96 parts, the kit provides finely detailed figures and equipment while maintaining straightforward assembly. The set offers excellent opportunities for painting and weathering, allowing modellers to recreate the appearance of German troops during the closing stages of the war.

Browse more military figure sets in our 1/35 Figures category.

• 1/35 scale figure set
• Manufacturer SKU: 35724
• German WWI anti-tank unit
• Includes Mauser Tankgewehr M1918 crew
• Includes MG 08 machine gun team
• Total of 96 parts
• Highly detailed uniforms and equipment
• Accurate First World War weaponry
• Dynamic anti-tank defence scene
• Detailed assembly instructions included
• Suitable for WWI dioramas
• High-quality plastic mouldings

History

When British tanks first appeared during the Battle of the Somme in 1916, German forces had few effective means of stopping them. Initial efforts relied on artillery, concentrated machine-gun fire and specially developed armour-piercing ammunition. As tanks became more common, German military planners recognised the need for a dedicated anti-tank weapon.

The result was the Mauser Tankgewehr M1918, introduced in 1918 as the world’s first purpose-built anti-tank rifle. Chambered for a powerful 13.2mm cartridge, the weapon was capable of penetrating contemporary tank armour at combat ranges. Operated by a two-man crew, it became the foundation of Germany’s anti-tank defences during the final year of the war.

Special anti-tank units were formed to counter Allied armour, combining Tankgewehr teams with machine-gun crews. Their tactics involved concentrating fire on vulnerable areas such as drivers’ positions, observation points and fuel systems. Although introduced late in the conflict, these units marked the beginning of organised anti-tank warfare and influenced military developments for decades to come.