1:35 Israel Nochri Degem Dalet Heavy Mine Roller System

The Israeli Nochri Degem Dalet heavy mine roller, 1:35 scale (Meng)

Note: this is not a model of a vehicle in its own right but an injection-molded plastic accessory set from Meng that reproduces the Israeli Nochri Degem Dalet heavy mine roller (mine clearing system). The set is meant to be fitted to a tank model (the Israeli Merkava series tanks from the same maker). It contains the parts of the mine roller and the adapter; to complete the scene you need the matching base tank model, which is not included in the package.

The real subject

Nochri Degem Dalet is a heavy mine roller developed by the Israel Defense Forces for mine clearing - it travels over the ground ahead of the tank and sets off laid antitank mines with its own weight, which increases the safety of the vehicles advancing behind it. It attaches to the tank with an adapter and can be released when necessary. It is a typical engineer aid of the modern battlefield, where the threat of mines and improvised charges is high.

Building and painting tips

Glue the parts with liquid cement for plastic and pay attention to the moving or close-fitting attachment to the adapter. Spray the roller separately before fitting it to the tank - it is easier to paint and weather that way. A primer base is a good idea, followed by shades matched to the base tank. The roller tends to be heavily caked with soil, so reach for strong mud effects and pigments; bring the metal surfaces to life with wear and the sheen of bare metal.

Who the set is for

• For modelers building Israeli Merkava series tanks.
• For enthusiasts of modern engineer and mine clearing equipment.
• For makers of dioramas from Middle Eastern battlefields.
• For more advanced builders who want to add something original to their tank.

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.