Base : Italeri #6568 Sherman M4A1
Bronco # AB3544 Sherman T49 Workable tracks link set
Braille strike # on request decals
Model, photos and text Didier Lecru
Model, photos and text Didier Lecru
Historical background :
From the years 50-60s, Brasil had a large number of military vehicles sold by the Allied countries of which M4A1 Shermans. In 1974 the concept of modernization of the fleet of Brasilian medium tanks is launched but without progressing much. To activate it in 1982 a partnership is signed between the Army technological center (CTEx) and the São Paulo company Moto Peças S/A. Thus on the basis of a M4A1 Sherman a engineer version called M4 Special Armored Engineering Vehicle (VBE-ENG-M4-30t-Lag) is designed. The structure is deeply modified mainly because of the relocation of the engine (Scania 500 hp) to the right in order to create a door and allow access to the vehicle from the rear. It can accommodate 7 soldiers. The upper part of the hull is made of welded steel like a larger M113 hull. On the top there is a 20 tons capacity hydraulic winch and a hydraulic crane with a foldable boom capable of lifting up to 10 tons. Moreover this project is fitted with a front blade (interchangeable with a mine plow). Only 6 vehicles were built (1 prototype and 5 preseries vehicles). At the end of the 2010s 4 vehicles are still in service with the Brasilian engineer corps. Today the 5th is preserved at the military museum Conde de Linhares in Rio de Janeiro waiting for its restoration.
Build :
Before all, I want tp warmly thank mister Sergio Penna (from Brasil) without whom this realization would never have seen the light. As I didn't want to work from a brand new model, I started from an already built and well battered Sherman. Thus the cupola, the MG, the lower hull and the running gear are used. The black plastic tracks are replaced by a Bronco reference. Finally the upper hull, the blade, the crane and the various equipment are made from scratch.
Painting :
Being fan of clean vehicles I chose to depict a prototype having run but featuring a moderately stained hull. I used all the well-known painting techniques. Concerning the camouflage it is composed of the two tones regularly used on all the armored fighting vehicles of the Brasilian army from the mid-1980s. As usual I finish with pastel chalks to create a dusty look all over the vehicle.
Decals :
Starting from a unique vehicle I requested the help of Braille Strike. This Belgian manufacturer creates decals according to your needs and desires. I highly recommend them.
References :
https://www.armasnacionais.com/2020/01/veiculo-blindado-de-engenharia-m4.html
https://www.artstation.com/artwork/d0oKDK
Click on a thumbnail to see the full sized picture
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12/2023