The Sonderkraftfahrzeug 7 (Sd.Kfz.7) was used by German forces throughout WWII and in all theaters of combat. It was designed to meet a requirement for a highly mobile tractor to pull 8.8cm FlaK guns and 15cm s.FH.18 howitzers. Thus the large halftrack’s powerful engine could tow artillery pieces weighing up to 8 tonnes, as well as carry up to twelve soldiers and all their kit. While large numbers of this halftrack were produced during the war, there were never enough to go around. Fortunately Dragon has reincarnated this vehicle in miniature. Indeed, this is the most anticipated kit from Dragon since it was announced last year, and it’s set to be the most popular version in the Sd.Kfz.7 family.

This variant allows modelers to place it in early-war dioramas such as Poland or France, as well as late-war scenes. The model is extremely accurate, and is replete with all kinds of detail, even in those places where it won’t naturally be seen. An example is the engine bay, where the engine and gearbox are fully detailed beneath the hood. Many kit components are created by slide molds, resulting in accurate parts that are easily assembled. A prime mover for Dragon’s s.FH.18 howitzer or 8.8cm FlaK is just one application modelers will find for this halftrack. This is a fine kit of the Sd.Kfz.7 Initial Production Halftrack, one that’s been well worth the wait!