The SU-85 self-propelled gun based itself on the proven T34 chassis which had stood the Red Army in good stead against their German counterparts. As with other ‘SUs’, the SU-85s name came from the Russian for ‘self-propelled carriage (Samokhodnaya Ustanovka) and the bore of the gun – in this case the high velocity 85 mm D-5T anti-tank gun. With the all-important low profile of a tank hunter it also had good mobility but at the expense of lighter armour. Entering active service in autumn 1943 the SU-85 would be found in all self-propelled regiments and brigades.
The SU-85 was used in anger for the first time in September 1943, during the Dnieper crossing. The tank destroyer became very popular with it’s crews due largely to it’s powerful gun which was able to penetrate the armour of the troublesome Panther and Tiger tanks at good distances. An example of this was the 1021st Self-Propelled Artillery Regiment (1st Baltic Front) destroyed over 100 German tanks during the summer offensive in 1944.
“During all phases of the battle, the new tank destroyers played a key role in supporting our armored attack. New tank destroyer’s were very effective against enemy tanks. They had of good armor protection and their guns could kill targets at great distances. In addition, new TD’s proved to be very effective in defence.”
- Commander of 1st Guards Tank Army
This pack contains:
- One vehicle
Note: Models supplied unassembled and unpainted. Resin and metal parts.
Scale: 28mm.
