The Russian way of Beutepanzer Su-76i 1/35

[Knaupel]

For more then 10 Years ago I´ve heard the first time about the SU-76i. In 2007 I started to build this tank and will show it here in several build logs. Dragon actually releasead a new kit of this Monster, so no need for scratchbuilding anymore ;-)

Some information I have found in the web:

Origin: wio.ru

In 1943 it was decided to use big storages of German tanks to convert them to assault guns designated SU-76i ("inostrannij" = foreign).

The modifications consisted of the removal of the turret and upper part of the hull in case of PzKpfwIII / PzKpfwIV and the superstructure in case of StugIII, while all other components remain unchanged. Modified vehicles were mounted with welded boxy superstructures (forward armor 35mm, side and rear armor 15-25mm) which housed 76.2mm F-34 or 76.2mm ZIS-5 tank gun and storage space for 98 rounds. SU-76i was operated by the crew of four, who had a submachineguns and a hand grenades for local defense. A driver used the unchanged German equipment, while other equipment was of Soviet origin. SU-76i weighted about 22t; it could travel at the maximum speed of 40km/h as the base tanks. 201 of such SPGs were built, including 20 command SU-76i.
In Augst 1943, 1902th SAP had 15 SU-76i and five SU-76. Also, 1901st SAP and 1903rd SAP were equipped by SU-76i.

One Vehicle was re-captured and pressed into service in late 1943:

Source: beutepanzer.ru

Source: beutepanzer.ru

Source: beutepanzer.ru

This particular vehicle was supporting the 143rd Rifle Division during their advance on Sarny on January 11th of 1944. The SU-76i attempted to cross the frozen river but ice broke and it sunk with its crew. It was discovered in 1972, recovered, renovated and placed on display at Lenin Prospekt Memorial at Sarny:

Source: tankarchives.blogspot.com

Dragon released a lot of Panzer III, so the base is given. All what we need is a Blueprint of this monster.

Source: The blueprints.com

This was the first attempt of building the superstructure.

I wasn´t pleased with this roof so I startet a second try:

end of day two

After installing Tamiyas T-34 Main-gun and mantlet I reworked the structure with Revells Putty.

and added so details. The tracks are from Friul and the sprocket wheels are Modelkasten.

I added the mud guards an the last details. I used Lion Roar and Eduard PE Parts.

Time for some paint!

[FrancisGL]

A project super-interesting, very original, did not know this vehicle. Good job for now ... Greetings

[Knaupel]

Cheers Francis!

[Knaupel]

Time to paint this tank. I started with Tamiyas Olive drab and preshaded some areas.

The stars are masked with Tamiya-Tape.

The chippes are made with a sponge. The rust was painted with various Revell Colors and black pigments.

The dust is CMK pigments.

[FrancisGL]

And it looks damn good, , cheers Pete