Tamiya Plastic Model Kit

Iraqi Tank T-55 Enigma (1/35)

This 1/35 scale T-55 Enigma recreates one of the most distinctive Iraqi armour variants fielded during the 1991 Gulf War. Tamiya’s tooling captures the angular add-on armour blocks fitted to the turret and hull, giving the vehicle its unmistakable silhouette. The hull blocks are moulded with their supporting frames for easier assembly, while the turret’s armour brackets are handled as separate parts that add welcome definition.

The kit features a sharply detailed turret, textured cast surfaces and clean hull moulding, with belt-type tracks included for a straightforward fit. A commander figure adds life to the finished build, and the proportions match well with diorama settings or other modern-conflict subjects. At roughly 259 mm long, the completed model has a confident presence without overwhelming the display shelf.

• 1/35 scale plastic model kit
• Detailed Enigma armour suite
• Separate turret armour frames
• Moulded hull armour blocks with frames
• Belt-type tracks
• 1 commander figure included
• Length: approx. 259 mm
• Width: approx. 109 mm
• SKU: 35324

Suggested Paint Colours

• Tamiya XF-57 Buff – base sand tone
• Tamiya XF-59 Desert Yellow – armour blocks
• Tamiya XF-1 Black – tyres and machine gun details
• Tamiya XF-56 Metallic Grey – gun breech and metal fittings
• Tamiya XF-64 Red Brown – weathering and track tones

History

The T-55 Enigma was an Iraqi field-improvised upgrade created during the build-up to the 1991 Gulf War. Additional armour blocks were bolted to the turret and hull in an attempt to improve protection against modern anti-tank weapons. Although not officially designated, Coalition forces began referring to the vehicle as the “Enigma,” a name that quickly entered popular use.

These tanks were deployed to regular armoured units and are believed to have served in command roles. Several were captured intact during the conflict, offering a clear look at the improvised construction of the armour package. Despite their limitations, the Enigma tanks remain one of the most visually striking armoured vehicles associated with the Gulf War, making them a compelling subject for modellers.