Gecko | 35GM0061 |  British Bedford MWR FFW Radio Command Truck | 1:35

A 1:35 scale model of the British Bedford MWR ''Radio truck'' variant. This kit contains radio and other equipment, and PE parts.

Background information

The Bedford MW was a general service truck used by the British Armed Forces during the Second World War. 

It was a 15 cwt (760 kg) 4x2 truck, powered by a Bedford 72 bhp (54 kW) six-cylinder inline 210 cu in (3.5 L) petrol engine through a four speed transmission. Despite lacking four wheel drive and so being unsuited for off-road use, the MW's powerful engine, short wheel base, low centre of gravity and relatively light weight gave it excellent acceleration and almost sports car like handling.

The early MWs were open cabbed with a folding windscreen and a collapsible canvas tilt, from 1943 an enclosed cab with doors and perspex side screens was added, retaining the canvas top. The vehicle had a distinctive wide bonnet, necessitated by the need to accommodate a special extra large air filter that was never fitted to production vehicles.

The Bedford MW was built in multiple variants including:

• Bedford MWD cargo truck with General Service body approx 6 by 6 ft (1.8 by 1.8 m). Main transport of an infantry battalion.
• Bedford MWC water tank truck
• Bedford MWT anti-aircraft gun tractor
• Bedford MWG QF 2-pounder or 20mm Oerlikon portee
• Bedford MWR radio truck
• Bedford MWV Royal Air Force signals van