1/35 US WATER BUFFALO LVT-4 (EARLY TYPE) AFV CLUB AF35205 AFV-AF35205

1/35 scale plastic model kit of the U.S. Water Buffalo LVT-4 early type.

The fourth LVT was Designed in 1943 on the basis of the LVT-2, but was the first to feature a stern ramp for unloading of personnel and cargo. It was also the most produced of any LVTs during the war. This alone was a remarkable step forward, essentially dictated by early battle reports over casualties resulting on landing troops. It was completely remodelled to achieve this, with relocated engine was from the rear to behind the driver's cab. This allowed for a larger cargo area and thus provided enough space to accommodate a full rear loading ramp, and far more troops (from 16 to 30 compared to the LVT-2). This rear configuration also better protected landing forces and facilitated loading. Another particular was to have Wash Vanes (honeycombed boxes above the tracks) that forces the water out, pushed by the grousers when in motion.