When the Korean War began, the US military had no medium tanks in production. The M47 appeared as an interim measure but work immediately began on the M48. The first 'Pattons' were completed in July 1952. Unfortunately, the speed of development resulted in numerous teething troubles for the early Pattons, including poor reliability and a short operating range. The A3 was a highly modified version designed to rectify these failings, and the M48 has been used as the basis for flame-thrower tanks, recovery vehicles, and an AVLB. The A5 was an upgraded version produced in the mid-1970s, which extended the M48's shelf life considerably.

Without question, the centerpiece of the "Unsung Heroes" collection is this striking 1:50 scale diecast replica of a US Marine Corps M48A3 'Patton' main battle tank that was attached to the 1st Tank Battalion and nicknamed "Disaster." Landing at Da Nang on March 9th, 1965, the M48 A3 was the first American tank to enter the War. A derivative of the M48, which had entered production back in April 1952, the A3 was designed to bring older versions up to the standard of the newer M60. This baby features a hull- and cupola-mounted machine gun, and a huge 90mm main gun with laser rangefinder. Like the other vehicles in this series, the M48 A3 has been 'muddied' to give it a more weathered appearance. Sold Out!

Dimensions:
Length: 5-1/2-inches
Width: 2-3/4-inches

Release Date: February 2006