M1296 Stryker ICV-Dragoon

Plastic model kit of a Stryker M1296 ICV-Dragoon
   Brand-new, upgraded molds  

• 1:35 scale
• Includes clear parts, metal parts, and photo-etched parts
• Rubber tires
• New, revised instructions
• Unassembled, unpainted
• Paint and glue not included

The M1296 Infantry Carrier Vehicle Dragoon is a modernized version of the Stryker infantry transport vehicle, designed to significantly increase the firepower of Stryker Brigade Combat Teams (SBCT). It was developed in response to a requirement from US forces stationed in Europe for a more heavily armed vehicle capable of effectively countering modern wheeled and tracked infantry fighting vehicles. The first production vehicles were delivered in late 2017 and entered service with the 2nd Cavalry Regiment in Germany starting in 2018.

Unlike the conventional M1126 Stryker ICV, which is armed only with a 12.7 mm machine gun or a 40 mm automatic grenade launcher, the M1296 is equipped with the unmanned Kongsberg MCT-30 turret mounting the XM813 Bushmaster II 30×173 mm autocannon. This weapon can fire armor-piercing, high-explosive, and programmable airburst ammunition, effectively engaging targets at ranges of up to approximately 3,000 meters. The main armament is complemented by a coaxial 7.62 mm M240C machine gun. Because the turret is unmanned, it does not take up space in the troop compartment, allowing the vehicle to continue transporting an infantry squad of up to nine soldiers.

The M1296 is powered by a 350 hp Caterpillar C7 diesel engine. Weighing approximately 19.5 tonnes, the 8x8 wheeled vehicle reaches a top speed of around 100 km/h and has a range of about 500 kilometers. Its base armor, made of high-strength steel, can be supplemented with additional ceramic armor, providing protection against threats such as 14.5mm armor-piercing incendiary rounds and shrapnel from heavy artillery shells. Modern thermal imaging cameras, a digital command and information system, and a 360-degree camera system significantly enhance the crew's target acquisition capabilities and situational awareness.

The M1296 is not a replacement for a traditional tracked infantry fighting vehicle like the M2 Bradley; instead, it combines the Stryker's high strategic mobility with substantially increased firepower. It is particularly well-suited for engaging light and medium armored vehicles, fortified positions, and low-flying aerial targets and drones. The Dragoon thus represents a significant step in the evolution of the Stryker family and ranks among the US Army's most capable wheeled infantry fighting vehicles today.