Product Details

Dr. Porsche was an important figure in terms of German armored fighting vehicle development during WWII. Unfortunately, not all his ideas met with success, with the VK4501(P) being a prime example. After its failure, he nevertheless designed an updated version known as the VK.45.02(P). He actually proposed five different versions, with four different types of engine and both forward- and rear-mounted turrets. The heavy tank turret was designed by Krupp to mount an 8.8cm KwK43 L/71 gun, and it featured a rounded front for better ballistic qualities. Production of the VK.45.02(P) was authorized in April 1942 and 200 vehicles were to be produced. Again, however, Dr. Porsche was stymied by a too ambitious automotive design, as the tank's 10-cylinder engine was unproven and complicated. In November 1942 the whole contract was rescinded and the 57-ton VK.45.02(P) was consigned to the fate of being just another ‘paper panzer'! This release features the VK.45.02(P)H prototype. It has the Porsche turret, which was later assigned to the Tiger II, mounted well to the rear of the hull to produce a most unique profile. The model is finished in a typical late-war camouflage scheme of two colors, this being punctuated by the barest of extra markings in the form of Balkenkreuz. The VK.45.02(P) is beautifully painted and weathered, and the detail on the heavy tank prototype is very complete. This Porsche prototype offers collectors something new and different to add to their panzer forces.