M4A3 75mm Sherman Tank 1943

Plastic model kit of a U.S. M4A3 75mm Sherman (1943 configuration)

• Scale: 1:35
• Includes a partially detailed interior (a full interior set is available separately)
• Functional suspension system
• Working tracks that can be assembled via snap-fit ​​connections
• Realistic recoil system for the main gun
• Unbuilt and unpainted
• Paint and glue not included

The M4A3(75) Sherman, in its 1943 production configuration, was an American medium tank equipped with a 75mm gun, a Ford V8 gasoline engine, and "dry" ammunition storage. Unlike the 1944 M4A3(75)W variant, it featured the earlier hull design with smaller hatches for the driver and co-driver.

• M4: The base model of the Sherman tank family.
• A3: Variant equipped with a Ford GAA engine and a welded upper hull.
• (75): Armed with the 75mm M3 gun.

Between June 1942 and September 1943, Ford produced a total of 1,690 units of this original M4A3 variant.

Other characteristic features included the compact 75mm turret, the VVSS (Vertical Volute Spring Suspension) system, and a one-piece cast transmission housing at the front. Additional armor plates welded onto the sides of the hull and turret may indicate field modifications or retrofits.

Ammunition was stored "dry" - lacking the liquid-filled protective jackets introduced in later versions. Some of the ammunition was stowed along the sides of the hull, above the tracks. This arrangement left the tank vulnerable in the event of a penetrating hit. The later "W" variant relocated the main supply to the floor of the hull and added protection against liquids.

Initially, the original Ford-produced vehicles remained primarily in the United States for training purposes. Following an overhaul, some were sent to Europe as replacements in early 1945; others saw service on Okinawa later that same year.