Trumpeter 1/35 Italian Puma 4x4 AFV Kit First Look
By Dave Manter
| Date of Review | December 2012 | Manufacturer | Trumpeter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subject | Italian Puma 4x4 AFV | Scale | 1/35 |
| Kit Number | 5525 | Primary Media | Styrene, photo-etch |
| Pros | Great detail, new subject | Cons | None |
| Skill Level | Experienced | MSRP (USD) | $53.99 |
First Look
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The Puma Armoured Fighting Vehicles are a family of light armoured vehicles developed in a 4X4 and 6X6 configuration by the Consorzio Iveco Fiat – Oto Melara based in Rome.
The Puma were developed for the Italian Army to complement the fleet of Centauro Tank Destroyers. Iveco Fiat was awarded a contract by the Italian Army for the development of Puma platforms carrying missiles, a mortar carrier, an ambulance and command post vehicles.
At the end of 1999, the Italian Army ordered 580 Puma vehicles, 250 of the 6x6 configuration and 330 4x4 vehicles. First vehicles were completed in mid-2003. The Puma was first deployed operationally in Southern Iraq in early 2005.
The Trumpeter kit consists of 310 parts on 11 sprues, 42 parts of photo etch and 4 tires. All of the parts are well molded and highly detailed. Mold lines and flash are minimal. Decals are provided for two vehicles, one in NATO tri color and one in UN white.
Construction looks to be pretty straight forward and no major problems should be encountered. The main body pieces fit together very well. One really nice feature is that the driver's protective windshield can be assembled up or down.
This one should be a pretty fast build and will look very nice when finished as the kit is packed with detail.
My sincere thanks to Squadron Mail Order for this review copy!