Tamiya Plastic Model Kit

M8 Carriage With 3 Figures (1/35) 35312

This 1/35 scale Tamiya kit recreates the U.S. M8 Howitzer Motor Carriage, a light armoured support vehicle based on the M5 Stuart chassis and armed with a 75mm howitzer. The model includes three realistically posed crew figures, perfect for diorama settings depicting U.S. forces in WWII. The kit features finely moulded parts and an accurate representation of the open-topped turret and internal details.

• Highly detailed M8 Howitzer Motor Carriage with open turret and accurate interior layout.
• Includes three crew figures in combat and operational poses.
• Faithful reproduction of the 75mm howitzer with breech and mounting detail.
• Authentic suspension and running gear based on the M5 Stuart chassis.
• Ideal for dioramas alongside U.S. infantry and armour from the same period.

History

The M8 Howitzer Motor Carriage was introduced in 1942 to provide U.S. armoured and reconnaissance units with a mobile artillery platform capable of direct and indirect fire. Built on the M5 Stuart light tank chassis, it replaced the turret with an open-topped fighting compartment housing a 75mm M2 or M3 howitzer. The M8 saw extensive service in Europe, particularly during the Normandy campaign and subsequent advances across France and Germany, where its mobility and firepower proved invaluable in both offensive and defensive roles. Although lightly armoured, it was well-regarded by crews for its versatility and reliability, remaining in service with some nations well after WWII.