Dragon is now releasing a unique version from the Panzer III family, a superb 1/35 scale kit of the Panzerkampfwagen III (Fl). This particular type of flamethrower tank was converted from Panzer III Ausf.M chassis, with Wegmann carrying out installation of the flame-throwing apparatus. The idea for such a tank designed for close-quarters combat (such as took place at Stalingrad) initially arose in November 1942, but the production of 100 vehicles didn’t occur until February-April 1943. The original 50mm gun was replaced with a flamethrower that had a range of 60m. Extra 30mm plates were also added to the hull front to add protection as well. These Pz.Kpfw.III (Fl) tanks were too late to participate in the Battle of Stalingrad, but some 41 were involved in the titanic Battle of Kursk in July 1943. 

Inside the box are the necessary ingredients to create a spectacular Panzer III (Flamm) in 1/35 scale. This includes the Schurzen plates for the hull, and these are produced with metal parts. The brackets on which the skirts are mounted are sophisticated and accurate. This kit is extremely well engineered and the parts separation is cleverly handled. The plastic kit also includes time-saving elements such as one-piece DS tracks, while a sprinkling of photo-etched metal parts add finesse where appropriate.