Most properly known as the losif Stalin 2 tank (IS-2) this vehicle is also widely known as the anglicised Joseph Stalin 2 (JS-2) heavy tank.
Making its combat debut early in 1944, the IS-2 was designed predominantly as a heavy tank to break through enemy lines. It was able to withstand the potent German anti-tank weaponry, and its 122mm gun could destroy the likes of the German Panther and Tiger tanks.
IS-2s were assigned to independent heavy tank regiments, and the elite Guards battalions in particular. Used to reinforce the most vital areas of the Soviet attack, they would support the infantry during assaults, destroying fortified enemy positions with their devastating high explosive shells. Once the breakthrough had been achieved, lighter Soviet tanks would rush through to exploit the breach and cause havoc in the enemy lines.
The IS-2 in this box is the later variant, with a sloped instead of stepped glacis plate. Known as the 1944 model IS-2, it led the way into the shattered remains of Berlin during the last days of Hitler's Third Reich.
One of the enduring images of the Soviet army in WWll is their tanks speeding along with Soviet soldiers clinging on. These tank riders offered valuable protection from enemy infantry attempting to attack the tank at close quarters.
Includes one 1/56 scale hard plastics IS-2 heavy tank, assembly guide, five multi-pose infantry figures, full-colour waterslide decal sheet for Soviet vehicles and vehicle damage markers.
Supplied unpainted and unassembled. Scenery, glue, and paint not included.
The game is in English
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