AIRFIX AIR02335V MATILDA HEDGEHOG (1/76)

The Matilda "Hedgehog" was used by the Australian forces in New Guinea. It is based on the Matilda Mk. II infantry tank. The bunkers that the Japanese built were very strong and posed a major problem for the allied forces. The system is based on the anti-submarine Hedgehog system of the Navy which fired a 63lbs projectile with a 37lbs warhead from a spigot launcher.

A platform was added to the engine deck of the tank which contained 7 projectiles. One projectile was used for ranging and then a whole salvo was fired at the target with usually devastating effect.

The tank "Bullpup" represented in this kit exists still as original in the museum of the Australian Armored Forces and a couple of pictures can be found online. To my understanding the Australian Matildas used different commander cupolas which are not as high as the British ones. The tank in the museum is also shown with mud guards attached to the front fenders which are not included in the kit.