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In may of 1948 Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, Transjordan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Yemen publicly proclaimed their aim of creating a "United State of Palestine" in place of the Jewish and Arab and attacked Israel (declared Independence - 14.05.1948). Israeli armor forces were equipped with the vehicles, Israelis could get under weapon embargo. No wonder, why they used obsolete Hotchkiss H39 light tanks.
Information about Israeli H39's is very few: 3 photos, the H39 in Latrun museum and their brief operational history. 10-12 Hothkiss tanks of "Russian" company, 82nd Mechanized battalion, 8th armored brigade of IDF took part in Israeli offensive in July, capturing airport in Lod (Ben-Gurion airport nowadays). Despite the fact that H39 were obsolete, they were used even in 50s by IDF. Photos of 1940-50 show H39's with original commander cupola, but the vehicle in Latrun has German hatch instead. Suppose both types fought in 1948)
Bronco's kit molding is better than Trumpeter's, nice features like metal barrel, suspension springs, tow chain and styrene tracks are also included. Details fit well. But still there's some room for improvement. I used Eduard PE kit, metal pipes to replace MG barrel and several tools’ parts; improved commander’s hatch doors, minor interior details, added the gun sight.
MM acrylic OD was used as a base color. Then MIG filter was used. Wash – W&N oils. Weathering – W&N oils, Tamiya acrylics and enamels, MIG pigments, rusty water for the tow chain.
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