Model Car Somua S 35 Military Tank - Solido (French Manufacturing) - Box N°CE2825
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This Somua S 35 military tank by Solido is a remarkable recreation of one of the most emblematic armored vehicles of the French army from the 1930s-1940s. This miniature, made in France, showcases Solido's expertise in the faithful reproduction of historic military vehicles.
Referencing box N°CE2825, this piece perfectly fits into the world of collectors passionate about military history and French armored vehicles. It offers a tangible approach to the technical and strategic heritage of the interwar period.
Miniature Characteristics
- Model: Somua S 35 Military Tank
- Manufacturer: Solido
- Reference: CE2825
- Origin: French Manufacturing
- Era Represented: 1930s-1940s
- Protective Case Included: Yes
Description of the Real Model
The Somua S 35 was developed in the mid-1930s by the Société d'outillage mécanique et d'usinage d'artillerie (SOMUA) to meet the modernization needs of the French armored cavalry. Designed as a cavalry tank, it was intended for reconnaissance and exploitation missions.
This 19.5-ton armored vehicle was distinguished by its single-piece cast turret, a remarkable technical innovation for its time. Armed with a 47 mm SA 35 gun and a coaxial machine gun, it offered respectable firepower. Its Somua V8 engine provided a maximum speed of 40 km/h on the road.
Considered by many experts to be one of the best medium tanks in the world at the time of its commissioning, the S 35 technically outperformed most of its European counterparts, both in protection and mobility.
History of Somua
The Société d'outillage mécanique et d'usinage d'artillerie, founded in 1914, emerged in the 1930s as a major player in the French defense industry. The company, located in Saint-Ouen, developed particular expertise in metallurgy and precision machining.
In the context of rearmament in the 1930s, Somua benefited from government orders aimed at modernizing the French army. The company closely collaborated with the General Staff to develop armored vehicles that met new tactical doctrines. This period marked the technical peak of Somua, which produced vehicles renowned for their manufacturing quality and innovation.
The history of Somua reflects the industrial ambitions of France during the interwar period, when the country sought to maintain its status as a European military power amidst rising international tensions.
The Engagement of the S 35 in May 1940
The baptism of fire of the Somua S 35 during the Battle of France paradoxically revealed the exceptional qualities of the equipment and the weaknesses of the employment doctrine. On 13 May 1940, near Flavion in Belgium, the S 35s of the 3rd Light Mechanized Division faced off against German Panzer units in one of the largest tank battles of the campaign.
During this engagement, Captain Pierre Billotte single-handedly destroyed thirteen German armored vehicles with his S 35, demonstrating the technical superiority of the French tank. However, this tactical victory could not compensate for organizational failures: poor communications, unit dispersion, and lack of coordination with aviation.
This battle tragically illustrates how technically superior equipment can be neutralized by an inadequate employment doctrine. The German crews, although individually less well equipped, compensated with better coordination and more modern tactics, foreshadowing future developments in armored combat.
Thus, the S 35 became the ambivalent symbol of French industrial excellence and the difficulties of adapting to new forms of mechanized warfare, marking a crucial chapter in European military history.
Complete Your Collection of Military Miniatures
This Somua S 35 miniature naturally finds its place in a collection dedicated to military vehicles or French productions of the interwar period. It harmoniously interacts with other armored vehicles from the same era, offering a historical perspective on the evolution of military technology.
Collectors passionate about French military history will particularly appreciate this piece alongside other Solido productions, known for their historical fidelity. This miniature also integrates perfectly into a thematic collection of the 1930s and the 1940s.
Beyond military history enthusiasts, this miniature will appeal to collectors of French productions concerned with preserving national industrial memory. It also serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the universe of French armored vehicles and understanding the technological stakes of this pivotal period in European history.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to understand the scales of miniatures?
Scale indicates the reduction ratio between the real car and the miniature. For example, at 1:43 scale, each centimeter on the miniature corresponds to 43 centimeters on the real vehicle.
Concretely, a 1/18 scale Ferrari model is approximately 25-30 cm long, while in 1/43 scale it measures approximately 10 cm.
What scales are available?
Our model cars are mainly offered in 1/43, 1/24, 1/18 and 1/87 (HO) scales. The scale is always indicated in the product sheet.
The smaller the second number, the larger the model car (e.g. 1/18 is larger than 1/43).
Does the model car come with protection?
Yes, each model car is systematically delivered in its protective box. This box preserves the collectible value and protects your model car from dust and shocks.
How is my package protected during transport?
We package each order with the utmost care: bubble wrap, appropriate cushioning, and polystyrene. Your model car is perfectly secure during its journey.
What is the delivery time?
In-stock items are shipped within 24-48 hours. Please allow 2-3 business days for France via Colissimo or 4-5 days via Mondial Relay.
The model car is no longer in stock, when will you have it?
It's impossible for me to know exactly when I'll receive a new stock because I receive arrivals in dribs and drabs. Please contact me so I can keep you informed as soon as it's available.
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