Tamiya Plastic Model Kit

Tamiya M5A1 Stuart (1/48)

The Tamiya M5A1 Stuart is a finely detailed 1/48 scale plastic model kit of the U.S. light tank that evolved from the M3 Stuart. Retaining the M3’s turret but introducing a welded hull with improved sloped armour and redesigned engine deck, the M5 series offered better protection and performance. The M5A1 variant featured a 37mm main gun, enlarged hatches, side-mounted track grousers, and a 7.62mm machine gun, making it a versatile reconnaissance and support vehicle in WWII.

This kit captures the distinctive high-profile silhouette and sharp front glacis with impressive accuracy, thanks to thorough research of surviving examples. The turret includes finely rendered surface textures and realistic weapon detailing. Assembly-type tracks with one-piece straight sections simplify construction without sacrificing realism, while metal weights give the finished model a satisfying heft. The set includes a commander torso figure and decals for two vehicles from the 3rd Armoured Division on the Western Front in 1944.

• 1/48 scale plastic model assembly kit
• Length: 94mm, width: 48mm
• Accurately reproduced M5A1 welded hull and turret details
• Includes commander figure with binoculars
• Assembly-type tracks with realistic sag
• Two marking options for Western Front, 1944
• Metal weights for added realism

History:

The M5A1 Stuart was developed to replace the earlier M3 Stuart light tank, incorporating improvements in protection, mobility, and crew ergonomics. Powered by twin Cadillac V8 engines producing 220 horsepower, it could reach speeds of up to 58 km/h. Over 6,800 units were produced between 1942 and 1944, serving in diverse theatres from North Africa to the European Front. Its speed and manoeuvrability made it ideal for reconnaissance, flanking operations, and infantry support, though it was lightly armoured compared to contemporary medium and heavy tanks. Despite these limitations, the M5A1 proved a reliable and well-liked vehicle among Allied crews, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the most recognisable light tanks of WWII.