“Ford” 3-Ton M1918 – the American light tank

The “Ford” 3-Ton M1918 is a prototype of an American light tank of the First World War. This type of combat vehicle was produced in 1918. In total, according to various estimates, from 12 to 16 machines of this type were produced, but they never went into mass production. The tank was powered by two 45-h. p. “Ford” Model T engines and armed with one 7.62 mm “Browning” M1919 machine gun. The “Ford” 3-Ton M1918 was developed by the “Ford Motor Company” to complement the “Renault” FT-17 tank line, used by the US military. At the same time, it used many components from the “Ford” Model T car, so the production of the tank was much cheaper, than its French counterpart. However, it did not have a rotating turret, which was a major drawback. Also, field tests, conducted by American tanks in France, revealed many shortcomings and imperfections of this construction. Ultimately, the “Ford” 3-Ton M1918 was not put into mass production, and the decision not to start its production was accelerated by the end of the First World War.

A small and simple model of a small tank, uncomplicated, well-designed and well-detailed (even the engine and fighting compartments are detailed), suitable for modelers of any experience. There are no color reserves. Advanced beginners and modelers with little experience are recommended to glue this model under the supervision of a more experienced colleague, work not rushing, patiently and carefully. The textual instruction in Polish and English is small, but quite detailed, informative and perfectly complements the graphical instruction, which is also not very large, but easy to read, quite detailed and informative.