ET Model TOS.1A Multiple Rocket Launcher Updates 1:35

[Mike]

TOS.1A Multiple Rocket Launcher (E35-230 for Trumpeter 05582)
1:35 ET Model

Trumpeter's TOS-1A MLRS was well received in our review late last year (here), and now we have this Photo-Etch (PE) set from ET Model to upgrade the detail further. Arriving in the usual thick polythene flat pack with black card insert and green instructions, it contains three sheets of PE and a length of braided copper wire to use for the towing cables, although they aren't mentioned in the kit instructions. There are however a pair of towing eyes in the box, so if you wanted to depict one snaking across the glacis as is often seen in action, you're able to do so. The instructions however would have you add it to the rear.

Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.org

The TOS-1A is based on a T-72 chassis, so there are a lot of tie-downs on the sponsons, which are highly detailed with semi-functional catches. Because there are a lot of them, they are dealt with in lettered sections which also tell you how many you should make, with the letter code being used to place them on the correct section of the sponson. A v-shaped bullet-splash guard is added to the glacis plate, as are a host of little brackets, lugs and strips, with more added to the front of the mudguards. At the rear the mesh grilles are replaced with new ones, and a triple-layered exhaust heat protector is added on the port side. The pioneer tools are detailed and have new mounting points added, and you will need some narrow rod of 1mm, 0.4mm and 0.3mm to complete some of this work. A pair of new unditching log attachment points are folded up complete with straps, and at the rear are the formation light housings, with yet more brackets here and there. The lights are also upgraded with PE parts and brackets, as are the vision blocks on the vestigial turret, which is also adorned with a few more brackets.

The rocket launching box is festooned with moulded-in catches that have to be shaved off before you can replace them with PE parts, as are the retaining brackets for the removable top section that facilitates reloading. A number of grab-handles must be made up from your own stock of 0.6mm wire, bent as per the template that is etched into the side of one of the frets.

Conclusion
Another excellent detailing set from the masters at ET Model, and well-worth picking up if you want to improve your TOS-1A kit.

Very highly recommended.

As ET Model don't currently have a UK distributor that we know of, you'll be best off looking for the set on eBay using the product code, or an overseas supplier. We'll update this review as and when a UK supplier breaks cover.

Review Sample courtesy of