The Crocodile was introduced just prior to the Normandy landings and formed part of the British 79th Division (known affectionately as ‘Hobart’s Funnies, after Major-General Percy Hobart, the division’s father figure) as well as being employed by the Royal Engineers.
The fuel-filled trailer could be attached to any Churchill as a field modification replacing the hull-mounted Besa machine gun, and meant the tank would retain it’s main turret-mounted gun, giving it more flexibility than merely as a short-ranged flamethrower. The Crocodile’s terrifying payload was often enough to induce the occupants to surrender although the weapon was a double-edged sword for the crew as they could expect little mercy if taken prisoner.
The US forces in Europe often requested use of the British Crocodile in Normandy’s dense bocage and also as the Allies pushed east and into Germany itself. The Croc also saw service in the campaign in Italy.
800 units were produced although 250 of these were held back in case they were needed against the Japanese in the Pacific Theatre.
This pack contains:
- 1 resin and metal Churchill Crocodile Flamethrowing Tank
Note: Models supplied unassembled and unpainted. Resin and metal parts.
Scale: 28mm.
