British Armoured Crew Set

Manufacturer: Alpine Miniatures

Item Code: 35078, 35079, 35080

Medium: Resin

Sculptor: Taesung Harmms

Box Artist: Calvin Tan

Review Publication Date: April 10th 2009

The extremes of climate encountered by British troops in the Mediterranean and Middle East theatre of battle saw the use of a diverse mix of uniform items; wool Battledress and greatcoats were often worn in colder weather, and various mixtures of BD, KD items and the issue woollen pullover were commonplace. This set of figures from Alpine Miniatures illustrates just two of the many variations of uniform seen worn by British troops during the desert fighting. This set of figures, depicting two British Armoured crewmen during a halt, is an excellent example of the mix of clothing worn during a change in temperature – be it Spring or Autumn, or a cool desert morning or evening.

35080 – “British Armoured Crew Set” is set of two 1/35th scale resin figures (and a puppy) sculpted by Alpine Miniatures owner, Taesung Harmms. The two British Armoured Crewmen, both wearing a mixture of tropical and Battledress clothing, are portrayed in fairly comfortable stances: the one stands with left hand in his shorts pocket while shielding his eyes from the sun with the other; while the crewman poses seated with his hands resting on his thighs. Released during February 2009, the box-art is painted by regular Alpine box-art painter Calvin Tan.

Both figures are also available individually as figures 35078 British Armoured Crew #1 and 35079 British Armoured Crew #2.

While no doubt some may find the poses featured in this figure set inanimate, I must admit to being extremely fond of them. I find the figures rather versatile given the poses which will suit virtually any British or Commonwealth vehicle placed in the Mediterranean and Middle East theatres of battle, be it tank, armoured car, lorry, or even simply seated on a wall as portrayed by Calvin Tan’s box-art.

With magnificent casting and Taesung Harmm’s eye for detail, this figure set by Alpine Miniatures is a terrific example of the various aspects of the Khaki Drill and Battle Dress uniforms and the manners in which it was worn by British and Commonwealth troops. Furthermore, given that armour personnel were issued with the same uniforms as infantry and other Army branches of service, this set need not only be portrayed as the former.

Alpine Miniatures’ first set of British troops wearing KD dress, or rather the unique manner in which KD and BD were worn together during the war in the Mediterranean and Middle East, is bound to be a popular release. Even more so given the recent resurgence of 1/35 scale British armour releases. These figures will be the perfect accessory to any British or Commonwealth vehicle – or will the vehicle be accessorising these highly recommended figures?

Click here for my full review on Armorama