Dragon 7484 1/72 Scale, M65 Atomic Annie Cannon, Plastic Model Kit (DG7484)

Contents

Model Specifications

• Huge Dimensions: Even at a scale as small as 1/72, when two huge transporter tractors (T10) and the huge 280mm gun in between are combined, the resulting model is approximately 35 cm long. It creates a tremendous visual impact when displayed.
• Two Different Installation Options: The model can be built with either the "Transport Mode" attached to the tractors or the "Firing Mode" standing on its legs where the gun is ready to fire.
• Detailed T10 Transport Tractors: Complete with two special tractors (M249 and M250) that control the gun from the front and the rear, interior cabin details, engine ventilation grilles and complex chassis structures.
• Mechanical Detail Quality: The elevation mechanism of the 280mm giant barrel, the rotating platform on which the gun stands and the hydraulic arms have very sharp details thanks to Dragon's "slide-mold" technology.
• Photo-Etched (PE) Parts: The kit includes a high-quality metal detail set for steps, railings and fine mechanical connections. This allows the model to completely strip away its toy appearance.
• Complex Hydraulic and Cabling System: The hydraulic hoses and control units that provide the connection between the cannon and the carriers have been meticulously modeled to reflect the technology of the period.
• Historical Significance: This weapon, one of the most extreme designs of the Cold War and used in real nuclear tests, is a candidate to be one of the most valuable pieces of the collection for military history enthusiasts.

Dragon is definitely making a big impact in the Black Label range with its innovative model kits. The latest will come as a surprise to many: a 1/72 scale model of the M65 Atomic Cannon, also known as "Atomic Annie". This US-made 280 mm caliber artillery gun was developed in the 1950s for the purpose of carrying a 15 kiloton nuclear device. The German K5 railway gun was used as the starting point in the design of the M65; It was first used in Europe and the Korean Peninsula in 1953. Two specially designed tractor trucks were needed for the gun's mobility, and this 83.3-ton combination could reach an astonishing speed of approximately 55 km/h. The M65 cannon could be ready to fire within 15 minutes and its range was approximately 32 km. At least 20 systems were produced, but the development of rocket and missile-based nuclear artillery systems quickly made the M65 obsolete. However, this 'prestigious' American gun remained in service until 1963.

Dragon's 1/72 scale M65 kit is brand new, which is understandable because it's the first modern model kit of this weapon system. The set includes two tractor units as well as the cannon, and modelers have the flexibility to depict the weapon in carrying or firing mode. The gun barrel can be shown at different firing angles depending on the modeler's preference, and the mechanisms of the gun are fully detailed. This small scale is very suitable for Atomic Annie because even at 1/72 size it is a full 350mm long! Details on the gun and associated truck units are accurately replicated. Many will be surprised that Black Label produces such a striking model, but that's exactly the point of the series! Black Label pleasantly surprises fans of Cold War-era models.