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Model Car Military Vehicle Somua S35 Tank - SOLIDO (French Manufacturing)
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Discover this exceptional miniature of the Somua S35 tank, a genuine testament to French military engineering from the 1930s. This faithful reproduction, made by Solido in its French workshops, captures the essence of this legendary armored vehicle that marked the history of French armored cavalry.
This metal miniature stands out as a must-have collector's item for all enthusiasts of military history and exceptional automobiles. Every detail showcases French craftsmanship in the art of miniaturization, perpetuating the tradition of excellence of our manufacturers.
Miniature Features
- Model: Somua S35 Tank
- Brand: Somua
- Year: 1935-1940
- Scale: To be determined
- Color: Military camouflage
- Protective case included: No
The Somua S35, Jewel of Armored Cavalry
Developed in the mid-1930s, the Somua S35 represented the technological forefront of its time. Designed as a cavalry tank, it had to combine mobility and firepower for reconnaissance and breakthrough missions. Its characteristic silhouette, with the angled APX-R turret and low hull, made it a formidable opponent on the battlefield.
Armed with a 47 mm SA 35 gun and a coaxial 7.5 mm machine gun, this 19.5-ton armored vehicle could achieve the remarkable speed of 40 km/h. Its armor, with a maximum thickness of 56 mm, provided effective protection against most anti-tank weapons of the time. This combination of mobility, protection, and firepower made it one of the best medium tanks in the world in 1940.
Despite its exceptional intrinsic qualities, the S35 suffered from tactical flaws, notably the absence of a radio on most models and a reduced crew of three men, forcing the tank commander to combine the roles of command, observation, and shooting.
Somua, French Mechanical Excellence
The Société d'outillage mécanique et d'usinage d'artillerie (Somua) was founded in 1914 with the aim of developing an autonomous French arms industry. A subsidiary of Schneider, the company quickly specialized in the design of innovative military vehicles, relying on internationally recognized technical expertise.
In the 1930s, in response to rising European tensions, Somua intensified its research in the field of armored vehicles. The company then developed a revolutionary approach to tank construction, prioritizing casting and welding techniques over traditional bolted assembly. This innovation allowed for stronger hulls while reducing the overall weight of the vehicle.
The legacy of Somua lasts long beyond World War II, as the company continued to innovate in the field of utility vehicles and buses, passing on its expertise through generations of French engineers.
A Legend Born in Adversity
The story of the Somua S35 contains a particularly striking anecdote that perfectly illustrates the paradox of the French army in 1940. During the battles of Hannut in May 1940, a squadron of S35 from the 2nd armored regiment faced successfully a formation of German Panzer III and IV, destroying several enemy armored vehicles without suffering significant losses.
This tactical victory revealed the technical superiority of French equipment but also the limitations of its use. German crews, impressed by the performance of the S35, respectfully dubbed this tank "der beste Panzer der Welt" (the best tank in the world). Paradoxically, this recognition from the enemy contrasted with the defensive and dispersed use by the French high command.
After the armistice, the German army recovered many intact S35s, reintroducing them into service under the designation Panzerkampfwagen 35-S 739(f). These French armored vehicles continued their career under the colors of the Wehrmacht, some even participating in the early phases of Operation Barbarossa in the Soviet Union, ultimate testimony to their exceptional intrinsic qualities.
This use by the adversary highlights one of the greatest mysteries of the Battle of France: how could such high-performance equipment lead to such a swift defeat? The answer lies in the employment doctrines and command structures, reminding us that technology alone is not enough to win battles.
Complete Your Collection of Military Miniatures
This reproduction of the Somua S35 naturally finds its place in any collection dedicated to military vehicles. It perfectly interacts with other armored vehicles from the period, creating a coherent ensemble illustrating the evolution of French military art.
Collectors passionate about the 1930s and the 1940s will particularly appreciate this miniature which ideally complements a collection of French vehicles. The Solido manufacturing quality, a flagship of the French miniature industry, guarantees remarkable fidelity to the proportions and details of the original vehicle.
This piece is aimed at both beginners discovering the world of armored vehicles and seasoned collectors seeking authentic models. It also serves as an exceptional educational tool for understanding the technological and tactical stakes that shaped 20th-century military history, perpetuating the memory of these exceptional machines that marked their era.
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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