Tamiya Plastic Model Kit

Armoured Car Sd.Kfz.222 Africa (1/35) 35286

The German Sd.Kfz.222 was a light 4×4 reconnaissance armoured car with excellent off-road mobility and a distinctive angular hull design. Used extensively across multiple theatres, this version represents vehicles deployed to the North African campaign. Its open-topped turret, fitted with grenade mesh covers, housed a 20mm cannon and 7.92mm machine gun, manned by a crew of three. The Sd.Kfz.222’s speed, manoeuvrability, and versatility made it a valuable asset for reconnaissance units operating in challenging desert terrain.

• Highly detailed 1/35 scale model with accurate North African configuration.
• Open turret with interior detailing, including 20mm cannon with metal barrel.
• Photo-etched turret mesh covers for added realism.
• Includes DKW motorcycle and accessories such as a hull-mounted tool box and headlight.
• Three crew figures: commander, radio operator, and motorcycle rider with optional poses.
• Multiple marking options for North African service vehicles.

History

Introduced in the late 1930s, the Sd.Kfz.222 was designed as a fast and manoeuvrable reconnaissance vehicle for the German Army. Its welded armoured hull provided protection from small arms fire while maintaining a relatively light weight, allowing excellent mobility in off-road conditions. The open-topped turret, fitted with anti-grenade mesh screens, allowed good visibility and housed a 20mm KwK 30 or KwK 38 cannon alongside a coaxial MG34. In North Africa, the Sd.Kfz.222 proved well-suited to desert warfare, serving with reconnaissance battalions of the Afrika Korps. Its speed and agility enabled it to scout ahead of advancing forces, while its armament was effective against light vehicles and infantry. Despite being gradually replaced by more modern designs, the Sd.Kfz.222 served throughout WWII in various theatres.