RFM | 5092 | M4A3 76W HVSS Early Type ''Thunderbolt VII"

This kit includes:

• Workable single link tracks
• Contains 3 types of driving wheels
• Workable running gear.
• Highly detailed cannon of the type M1A2 with double-chamber muzzle brake
• WITHOUT interior equipment

Background information

There are many variants of the Sherman, ranging from the M4, M4A1, M4A2, M4A3 and M4A4, which also encompass many sub-variants (such as the M4 (105) or M4A3E8 "Easy Eight", among others).

Over the course of production a number of improvements in the design were introduced. The turret of T20/T23 prototypes with its 76mm gun was adapted to the Sherman and entered production in February 1944; M4 variants with this armament had the suffix "76mm" added to their designations. The use of the 105mm howitzer for equipping close support tanks occurred from 1943. In reaction to fires following penetrating hits, applique armor was added to the outside of the hull. This was followed by internal modification with "wet stowage" jacketing the ammunition racks. Suspension was changed by the use of the stronger HVSS from mid-1944. HVSS had twice the number of wheels per bogie and individual wheels could be replaced without removing the bogie from the hull. Tracks were wider and vehicles had track covers that extended beyond the hull. Other hull modifications included a 47 degree angled glacis for simpler production, larger access hatches and a hatch for the loader and commander's cupola.

M4A3(76) – a highly improved variant of the Sherman with production numbers of 1,400 Built by Detroit Arsenal and 525 by Grand Blanc with improved armor, firepower, and a better gun with a higher velocity.

M4A3(76) HVSS – as M4A3 (76mm) with HVSS. 1,445 built by Detroit Arsenal August-December 1944