SU-85M – the USSR/ Polish PR self-propelled artillery unit

The first self-propelled artillery units, constructed in the USSR at the beginning of World War II, were produced in an unusually short time, but this is explained by the fact, that in their production already mass-produced and well-tested tank chassis were used. In 1942 the SU-122 medium artillery self-propelled gun, built on the chassis of the T-34 tank, was selected from several submitted projects. But it soon became clear, that the 122 mm howitzer, used in them, is too weak weapon. A new D-5S cannon of 85 mm caliber was constructed, based on the anti-aircraft cannon of the 1939 model. The new medium self-propelled artillery unit could be used as an assault gun or tank destroyer. It was later designated as SU-85, built in 1943 at the design bureau of the “Uralmashzavod” plant. The main task of the new SPAU is the destruction of the latest German heavy tanks "Panther" and "Tiger", which were faster and better armored, than the previous German tanks. Serial production of SU-85 started at the end of 1943. Later, SPAU SU-100 with 100 mm caliber cannon D-10S was constructed. Later, when these guns ran out, the same guns, as the SU-85 - S-5D - began to be installed in these machines. These SPAU are designated SU-85M.

A complex, well-detailed model, that requires care and attention, for intermediate and advanced modelers. Model without interior equipment, perfectly restored all exterior and chassis details. One of two models can be made from the publication: the main version reproduces the SU-85M in the museum of the Poznań Ground Forces Armored Training Center, the other version reproduces the machine with the serial number 603 from the 24th Self-Propelled Artillery Regiment of the Second Polish People's Army in the spring of 1945 combat camouflage. Great graphic instructions, no color reserve.