¹⁄35

A year or two ago, we got a kit that many of us had been waiting for for many years - the LCM(3) in 1/35th scale. Not only did we get a long-awaited kit , we got two - from both Trumpeter and from Italeri, this time it seems we are only getting one, but an incredibly welcome release all the same....

6441- LCVP (Landing Craft Personnel & Personnel) in 1/35th Scale is a model of the most ubiquitious landing vessel used in WW2. From the beaches of Italy to the Islands of the Pacific, this vessel served with distinction in every amphibious operation of WW2. Used by all the allied forces, there are many possibilities open to both the 'stand-alone' and the diorama builder.

What also makes this release of interest, is the determination of Italeri to stay 'independent' i.e. not to enter into the release war which is taking place between Taiwan and mainland China... It really is very heartening to see a manufacturer shy away from the 'mainstream' in this manner...

The kit includes a complete set of decals for a number of different vessels although the (three) crew figures appear to be U.S. Personnel - any chance of a British crew at some point in the future?

However, as the most important aspect of this kit is that we are finally getting a new LCVP, the debate over crew can be left to a later date...

Following on with the announcement of the new Autoblinda A/C (see previous news story) it seems that Italeri is truly back as a serious player!