Tamiya Plastic Model Kit

French Battle Tank B1 Bis (1/35)

This 1/35 scale kit from Tamiya recreates the French B1 Bis, one of the most distinctive heavy tanks of the early Second World War. Its tall silhouette, side armour panels, and unusual combination of hull-mounted and turret-mounted guns give it a very different look compared with many other armoured vehicles of the period. As part of the 1/35 military vehicle range, it offers a detailed representation of a tank that played a significant role during the Battle of France.

The model captures the main features of the original vehicle with a high level of detail. Slide-moulded hull parts help reproduce the shape and surface finish cleanly, while features such as hex bolts and armour sections are sharply defined. The kit includes a 75mm hull gun and a 47mm turret gun, both of which help give the finished model its recognisable character. Tamiya has also designed the tracks to snap together by hand without cement, making assembly more straightforward while still maintaining a convincing appearance once completed.

There is a good level of flexibility in the build, with a choice of fenders and exhausts that can be paired with four marking options to represent different combinations. Moveable driver’s and commander’s periscopes add extra interest, and the inclusion of a metal tow chain and a tank commander figure helps round out the finished presentation. For anyone building French armour or expanding a collection of 1/35 scale vehicles, this is a strong addition with plenty of visual presence.

• 1/35 scale plastic model kit of the French B1 Bis tank
• Accurately shaped hull with slide-moulded parts
• Detailed 75mm hull gun and 47mm turret gun
• Snap-together track parts designed for easier assembly
• Moveable periscopes and 75mm main gun
• Choice of two fender types and two exhaust styles
• Four marking options included
• Supplied with metal tow chain and one commander figure

The B1 Bis was developed from the earlier Char B1 and entered production in the late 1930s as France looked to strengthen its armoured forces. With armour up to 60mm thick, it was one of the most heavily protected tanks of its day and could withstand many anti-tank weapons used against it in 1940. Although it proved formidable in individual actions against German tanks and anti-tank crews, its complexity and the wider collapse of French forces limited its impact. Even so, the B1 Bis remains one of the most important French tank designs of WWII and a fascinating subject in military modelling.