VK 1602 “Leopard” – the German light tank – prototype

In 1942 „Daimler-Benz” and “MIAG” were tasked with designing a new reconnaissance tank, designed to operate in difficult combat conditions. “MIAG” was responsible for the chassis, “Daimler-Benz” - for the turret. By October, the tank had been designed and prepared for mass production. Initially, two versions of the combat vehicle were designed: a light 18-ton version and a more powerful 26-ton version, but the first was abandoned in the summer of 1942. The design of the heavier tank was based on solutions, used in the Pz. Kpfw. II Ausf. J and Ausf. M tanks. The tank model was prepared at the turn of May and June 1942. The assembly of the prototype was to be completed by September 1, and mass production was to begin in April 1943. The VK 1602 was armed with a 5 cm KwK 39 cannon and an MG 34 or MG 42 machine gun. The “Leopard's” frontal armor was very sloping - a departure from the “Panther”. The tank was to be equipped with a 550 h. p. “Maybach” HL 157 P engine. It was planned to produce 339 units, but in January 1943 the project was canceled, when the first prototype was still being assembled. The “Leopard’s” turret was used in the construction of the Sd. Kfz 234 “Puma” armored transporter.

A model of medium complexity without interior detailing. It is intended for modelers of any experience, but for modelers with less experience we recommend working under the supervision of a more experienced colleague. Tracks can be made of strips or from separate tracks. There is a considerable stock of colors. The text instructions are average, but sufficient (in Polish), the graphic instructions are quite large and will be a great help in the model assembly process.