Despite falling behind schedule, Dragon is continuing to show off lots of new 1:72 scale armor, no doubt as part of their grand offensive in 2013. Among the new introductions is this Ersatz M10 tank destroyer, which, in effect, is a modified Panther tank featuring bolted on armor around the superstructure to make it look like a US M10 tank destroyer (DRR60529). Also shown for the first time is a FLaK 37 88mm anti-aircraft gun, used in the harsh urban environs of Stalingrad in late 1942. Finally, up for consideration is a British Churchill Mk. III infantry tank, painted in a mottled summer camouflage pattern to reflect its usage in the mountains of Tunisia during 1943.
Product Announcements
Century Wings Holds Up Its Latest F-14 for Scrutiny
Delayed until January, Century Wings has finally rolled open its hangar doors so onlookers can peruse their latest F-14 installment. Based upon a bird that served with VF-1 “Wolfpack,” during 1991 (CW001600), their newest Fleet Defense Fighter boasts loads of armament and hi-fidelity features we’ve all come to expect from Century Wings. We’re hoping that more new aircraft aren’t too far behind, possibly including some new aircraft types long rumored to be languishing on the drawing board.
Minichamps Shares More Simoncelli Photos
As we continue to await the arrival of his 2011 Honda RC212V MotoGP bike, Minichamps took the wraps off of Marco Simoncelli’s midnight black test bike. Expected in March 2013, this is another one of those tribute bikes that will likely soar in value once collectors get wind of it. Pre-orders are still being accepted although this window will likely close soon as we near our allocation level.
Hobby Master Keeps 'em Coming
Showing no signs of abatement, Hobby Master debuted their April 2013 releases late yesterday. No new toolings were shown off and the number of new introductions is certainly way down compared with previous monthly announcements. Still, there are several noteworthy new products in the mix, including a F-105D Thunderchief in southeast Asian camouflage, an F-16CG Fighting Falcon and a German Opel Blitz that was attached to the 8th Gebirgsjager Division then deployed to Bologna, Italy. We hope to have all of the new items up on our web site this weekend.
Hobby Master Keeps ’em Coming
Showing no signs of abatement, Hobby Master debuted their April 2013 releases late yesterday. No new toolings were shown off and the number of new introductions is certainly way down compared with previous monthly announcements. Still, there are several noteworthy new products in the mix, including a F-105D Thunderchief in southeast Asian camouflage, an F-16CG Fighting Falcon and a German Opel Blitz that was attached to the 8th Gebirgsjager Division then deployed to Bologna, Italy. We hope to have all of the new items up on our web site this weekend.
Unimax Launches Smithsonian Wheels 2 Wings Series
Always looking to build upon success, Unimax, the makers of the wildly popular Forces of Valor series, has announced the launch of a brand new range dubbed Smithsonian Wheels 2 Wings Heritage series. According to their hand out:
“Wheels-2-Wings is a new brand produced by Unimax, the makers of Forces of Valor. Wheels-2-Wings brings you highly detailed recreations of iconic machines found in world-class collections from around the world. Our first series features planes found in The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.
The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum maintains the largest collection of historic air and spacecraft in the world. It is also a vital center for research into the history, science, and technology of aviation and space flight.”
The first products are expected in February with more military and non-military themed subjects in the pipeline for 2013.
New Line: DeAgostini Military Aircraft

We’re thrilled to announce the imminent arrival of DeAgostini 1:144 scale military aircraft. Much like the old IXO/Altaya range of military aircraft, the DeAgostini line is affordable yet chock full of features, making them wonderful stocking stuffers for the holiday season. Keep in mind that these planes are packaged in blister packs instead of the more traditional boxes, since they were originally designed to be bundled with a military-themed magazine based overseas. Nonetheless, for $20 a pop, you cant go wrong with any of these warbirds, in part because they replicate subjects no one else has done before. Get ’em while the getting is good!
Welly Serves up the War Winning Willys Jeep

Alliteration aside, we’re happy to report that Welly will soon release a 1:18 scale rendition of a WWII-era Willys jeep (#WE18036). Accurately modeled and finely detailed, we think this sharp looking replica will make a fantastic gift this holiday season, both affordable and sweet to behold. Compare this with the overpriced AutoArt rendition, and we feel this portrayal is an absolute bargain, even if it doesn’t come outfitted with cloth seats. We expect to take delivery later this month so make sure to check out this latest listing at your earliest opportunity.
Forces of Valor Chases Down Fireflies
![UNI80064H Forces of Valor's 1:32 scale British M4 Sherman Firefly Medium Tank - Unidentified Unit, Normandy, 1944 [D-Day Commemorative Packaging]](http://themotorpoolblog.files.wordpress.com/2012/09/uni80064h1.jpg?resize=400%2C347)
Corgi Debuts Their First Half 2013 Lineup

Even though several of their 2012 introductions have yet to be released, Corgi today unveiled their first half 2013 lineup to their adoring fans. Several key items will be offered, including this 1:72 scale Short Stirling heavy bomber piloted by VC recipient Arthur Aaron and a second 1:32 scale rendition of a De Havilland Mosquito fighter-bomber. We’ll be posting all of the new aircraft in their respective sections later today and will begin to accept pre-orders should you be so inclined. Enjoy!



