Italeri 1/72 Matilda Mk.II Kit First Look

By Michael Benolkin

First Look

The Matilda Mk.II was one of Britain's main battle tanks that featured cast armor and a 40mm main gun. Entering service in 1938, the Matilda Mk.II was strong enough to withstand all of the anti-tank guns of the day. It operated very effectively in North Africa up until the Germans pitted their deadly 88mm guns against all British targets. The Matilda was no match for the dreaded 88. The Royal Army was already working on a new generation of armor and employed a variety of lend-lease equipment in the interim.

Italeri has released the nice Matilda Mk.II from the ESCI 1/72 tooling. This kit is molded in tan styrene and presented on two parts trees, plus two sections of flexible vinyl track.

The kit captures the detailing of the lower hull with the unique suspension and roadwheels. The interesting design of the deflecting armor over the suspension that was further covered by armored side skirts makes it understandable why this tank was so well protected against most anti-tank guns.

The upper hull is also nicely detailed with the engine deck vents, pioneering tools, light fixtures, and exhaust mufflers.

The turret is also a nicely detailed on the exterior and features a commanders cupola that can have the split hatches positioned open or closed. A tank commander figure is also included.

Markings are included for four examples:

• Soviet Army, 10th Army, Bryansk Front, 1942
• British 8th Army, 7th Armoured Division, North Africa, 1941
• British 8th Army, 7th Royal Tank Regiment, North Africa, 1941
• British Army, 4th Independent Troop, Malta Tank Sqn, Malta, 1941

This will build up into a nice rendition of this unique-looking early-war tank. Whether for war gaming or the contest table, this project will definitely be an eye catcher. Recommended!

My sincere thanks to Testors for this review sample!