International Scale Modeller

My first ever SIG and can't wait to start this almighty build in the new year. Lots and lots of aftermarkets:




I am sure the M1 Abrams need no real introduction, but maybe the SEP TUSK version might- so here is a snippet:

SEP = System Enhancement Program
TUSK = Tank Urban Survival Kit





TUSK stands for “Tank Urban Survival Kit,” and represents the American approach to the problem of employing tanks in urban situations where weapons elevation, protection placement, and other design elements aren’t designed to cope with key threats. The Leopard 2 PSO external link (Peace Support Operations) is another example of this kind of adaptation, albeit with a different combat engineering slant and camouflage improvements external link. France has its AZUR program external link for the Leclerc, and other vehicles as well. Israel’s Merkava tanks are seeing their own modifications external link, including a rear sniper porthole to go with its traditional under-armor mortar and space for infantry; now dedicated APC versions external link are also in the mix. What is certain is that combat in urban terrain is the way of the future, as demonstrated by trends over the last 15 years of major military engagements.

TUSK upgrades include a RWS machine gun operated from inside the vehicle, a loader’s armor gun shield, a tank-infantry phone, Abrams reactive armor tiles, a remote thermal sight, and a power distribution box, as well as other key modifications that take many of the M1A1-SA “situational awareness” modifications and add a number of extra offensive and defensive systems designed to help the tank survive and fight on urban battlefields. See this article’s graphic for more.

Note that TUSK does not automatically upgrade a tank, which retains its earlier version – so they’re properly referred to as M1A1 TUSK, M1A2 TUSK, etc.





"The M1A2 SEP is builds on the digitized M1A2 platform with an improved armor package of third generation steel-encased depleted uranium armor, a new command and control system, second-generation FLIR thermal sights that include a Commander’s Independent Thermal Viewer (CITV) for “hunter-killer” operation, the Under Armor Auxiliary Power Unit (UAAPU) that lets crews run key electronics without running the engine, and a Thermal Management System (TMS – i.e. air conditioning for crew & electronics). The M1A2 SEP also features enhanced electronics like color maps and displays, improved networked communications, high-density computer memory and increased microprocessing speed, a more user friendly “Soldier Machine Interface (SMI)”, and an open operating computing system that will make future upgrades and additions easier.

The M1A2 SEP’s advanced FLIR/thermal sights are part of the US Army’s Horizontal Technology Integration (HTI) Second Generation Forward Looking Infrared (HTI SGF) sighting systems program, which creates commonality with other vehicles like the M2/M3 Bradley IFVs.

The M1A2 SEP is a formidable upgrade package, but it was missing a small but crucial item. Troops in Iraq and elsewhere are also clamoring for a phone on the outside of the tank that will let them talk to the vehicle crew. This was common as far back as World War 2, and its lack is hampering coordination on the modern battlefield – especially in urban areas. A General Dynamics representative noted that future M1A2 Abrams TUSK (Tank Urban Survivability Kit) vehicles will have this feature, but the SEP v1 tanks did not.

M1A2 SEP Version 2 configuration, which is just beginning to appear, fixes this. It adds improved displays, sights, and power systems compared to earlier SEP versions – plus the tank-infantry phone. Recent orders also added a CROWS-II top-mounted machine gun with advanced sights. The CROWS system can be controlled from inside the tank using a joystick and screen, removing the need to open the hatch and expose the crews to snipers. SEPv2 is the most technologically advanced digital Abrams tank, and is also positioned for future communications and other technology updates."

Taken from http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/dig ... ted-02834/

"Badass" is that the correct technical term?

Yes, I believe it is!

I am doing the TUSK Abrams as well, should be a nice build. I have built two of Tamiyas Challenger 2 kits, and they go together really nicely, this looks like it should do the same.

Gotta love the Abrams

Baddass is an understated technical term

This is my first Tamiya AFV kit so I am very sure it would go together very well! I chose the tamiya over dragon this time for simple build & fitment.
Dredding making my own anti-slip though

Abrams4lyf

Badass indeed. Love all the AM parts.

robertw wrote:Gotta love the Abrams

What he said!

Alot of candy!! Good luck!!!

Have one of those in my stash so looking forward to watching the build unfold and learn! Good luck!

Hows the build coming on? Been beaten by all that AM yet? My Abrams is nearly finished! Get a move on

Haha haven't really started yet, just received my Edward's PE set yesterday so will be starting end of this week.

This is gonna be awesome when complete!

I'm normally not a fan of the M1 but at the TUSK II version I would make an exception.
With the additional mounting parts it does not look that bad...

Ok... Don't take this wrong but !


a TWMP Plow on a M1A2 TUSK 2 is just too Heavy !!! with a TUSK 1 with out the Armored Belly Plate ( it could be possible ) the TWMR rollers have been seen on a TUSK 1 M1A1 or A2... plenty of pictures on the net

The Belly plate on a TUSK 2 is preventing the TWMP GLACIS Adapter to connect properly to the hull ! and the sheer weight of it alone is beyond
what the front suspension of the M1A2 is capable of enduring...

I don't want you to think I am preventing you to do it !!! far from it....
But be warned that your TWMP Adapter plate or Plow supports Y beams either from Tamiya, DML Dragon or Trumpeter will need to be Cut off at the bottom and modified for all this to fit and function properly ! even-though its not meant to be !

It does look pretty cool, but I just wanted you to know... it will be a WHAT IF TANK....

It is a model after all and I understand if you want to build one anyway !
so for those out there... that keep repeating its my model and I build it like I want !!! I am with you on this...

I have built one in 2011 just like you plan to do with yours.... but i knew right off the bat it was a WHAT IF TANK !
I received loads of compliments even won a prize for it ! but I wanted to share with you some facts before some more knowledgeable folks tear it apart ! in the event it happens. ( rivet counters or armchair generals can be cruel at times.)

Take care and Happy modeling my friend!
Looking forward to your rendition and if you need help....?
don't be shy !

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u255 ... yshot1.jpg


Norm.

Ok so I think I am ready to begin this amazing AFV now (having just bought a new cabinet so I could fit it)
Also, thanks Norm for the tips. I think I may call upon your help every now and then

The sprue shots

Happy building Tungy look forward to seeing it come together.

I have decided to apply the infamous 'Anti-Slip' texture on the Abrams. For some reason, the tamiya abrams does not come with the antislip texture on the surfaces of the hull and turret. Why? good question. (I've built revell's 1/72 and it did include the AS)

I will give MIG's Anti-slip texture a try. Here is the masking layout for those who plan to apply their own anti-slip: Just print out a copy.

http://i839.photobucket.com/albums/zz31 ... 8a1b3d.jpg

Here's a video review for the MIG antislip:
[youtube]EyScM0jkMzY[/youtube]

And here is my layout:

A change in scenery...
For your viewing pleasure:

[youtube]k6PXWsRxQ6M[/youtube]

[youtube]uBWo6RiWBWw[/youtube]

Looks a great kit, nice subject and extras. Look forward to see it all fall together!

Cool progress! Keep it up!

Anti Skid texture applied. I love it. I love the product. You could still get 3-4 more Abrams done with the tube.

TIP:
*When you fist apply with the brush, don't worry about the uneven brush strokes etc. Keep it rough. This first layer contains all the particles to make it work so don't dilute it YET.
*Once the first coat has been applied & died, then mix a little paste with 1-2 drops of water to reach a more runny paste.
Use this to brush over once again. The finish is very neat and tidy- no brush strokes and any spots missing will be covered.
*The paste is an acrylic so water to dilute and clean is fine

Wow, antiskid looks great!
You doing fantastic work here.

Nice product ! I shall investigate a little more....

Thanks for sharing your experience of it with us !

Unfortunately I have to pause this build and my modelling right here. Today I am getting laser eye surgery done on both my eyes.

Don't worry will be back real soon! PEACE

Antiskid seems just great ! Seems I'm going to use it on my Merkava build !

Hope to see you soon back here mate !

timtamtung wrote:Unfortunately I have to pause this build and my modelling right here. Today I am getting laser eye surgery done on both my eyes.

Don't worry will be back real soon! PEACE

Get well soon mate!

You people doing the antiskid yourselves are crazy

Looking good Tungy. Good luck with the laser eyes.

Hi guys! LASIK Eye surgery was a success. I can already see very well without need of glasses.
The doctor and surgeons were total aces.

Here's some pics the nurse offered to take while surgery was happening

And slowly back to do some abrams

* TUSK II installed
* Wheels cleaned

TIP:

* The front pair idler/road wheels are different part numbers to the other road wheels along the bottom! So I marked the insides of the 2 Idler wheels with an 'I' so I know which ones go where.
*If you decide to install TUSK II tiles (roof looking ones), you will need to drill 4x holes 1mm in the Tusk 1 armour. Don't worry, read the instructions carefully, they will tell you where to drill.
*When installing the Tusk II tiles, start gluing from the bottom row. If you start gluing from the top row, it will be hard to reach the glue onto the second set of tiles.



Same with the turret. Depending on whether you want to TUSK I or TUSK II, you will need to drill different holes. Tamiya did a great job at locating the points for you to drill. Remember to look at the instructions carefully.

Different holes for different Tusks!

Coming along nicely, glad your surgery went ok

PaulAyrey wrote:Coming along nicely, glad your surgery went ok

Thanks mate!

I remember the instructions and the turret underside had clear arrows embedded in plastic
Showing which holes to pick! Neat idea Tamiya had to do this...

Also great idea to Warn people about it!

Good luck with the rest! And don't strain yourself too much!
Those eyes need to heal just right....

Looking forward to the rest when you get time!!


All the bet to you!

Nice work so far Tung.

Hello peeps! The Abrams is going very nicely. I've almost completed the construction, just got a few turret machine guns to construct and she is looking mighty fine. I will upload some pics later once i get a few more bits done.

But I wanted to mention something that came across my mind today as I was building the Abrams..... and it stuck with me for a while

Thinking caps on...

So as I was nearing the completion of this kit, I had this thought which made me ponder for a very long time. Please feel free to comment and share your thoughts as I would like to hear what you guys think:

For some reason, modern vehicles such as the one in this kit are truly remarkable. Their engineering, size, sheer power and aura is very menacing. However, when building the modern vehicles, I don't seem to get the punch or exciting imaginations as I do when I build WW2 era tanks (mainly German Panzers). Why is this? Is this only me?

Don't get me wrong, this is an amazing kit-portraying a vehicle which I really like. I am having great fun building it and can't wait to kick ass with it. I can't wait to weather the tank and see this thing in my display cabinet. BUT, there is something missing inside of me when building modern vehicles... I don't feel 'accomplished' or yet satisfied as I do when I build panzers.

~ What is it about German tanks that causes such attraction? I kid you not, before I sleep, I always think about a panzer I will be building- how it should look- what figures should I include.

~Is it because of the history involved?
~Is it because of the engineering feat?
~Is it because there were so many advancements and these vehicles were never before seen or that man can build such machines?
~Is it because they look so mighty?
~Is it because they have nice camouflages rather than dessert sand? (even then, the Aussie Abram's camo pattern doesn't appeal to me).
~maybe because WW2 is over so the vehicles are classics, where as the Abrams is still in use today?

Just saying- I wouldn't mind building multiple Panthers or King Tigers...(even if it's the exact same kit), but only build 1 Abrams or Challenger.

Anyway, would love to hear your thoughts

Hey Tungy, that's a great question and I agree with you 100%, building WW2 tanks is definitely more inspiring than modern day equivalents. And I think you make some very valid points and they all play a part as to why many of us feel the same way. As I sat pondering your conundrum it slowly dawned on me that on some sub-conscious level, I differentiate between the two - one is consigned to our past and by definition becomes "history", but the second is very much part of the present and represents now. I think that we all realise the absolute destruction that many of these AFV's can wreak, but it all seems a bit more "real" when you're watching it on the telly as it only happened a couple of hours earlier. For that reason, we can romanticise about the past in the same way that you can laugh about a scrape narrowly avoided. Walter Scott once wrote, "Look back and smile on perils past". The past is always best looked at through rose-tinted glasses and this is why the summers of our childhood are always warmer and longer than the summers of today. Anywho, all this thinking is starting to hurt my head, so I'll finish by saying - nostalgia, it's not what it used to be!!

Abrams is looking great by the way - especially like the anti-slip!!

" the summers of our childhood are always warmer and longer than the summers of today."

Well said, My friend.

You know guys.... you could FLIP those arguments 180 degree around and still be correct....
If you don't feel it ! why do it ?

To each their own right! make the best of it ! and if it doesn't turn your crank ? move to other things that do....
and get good at what you do ...

if the will to build it correctly has vanished ? push it aside and gather more data and pictures and so on....
and when you are ready ? then push on ! no pressure !
Why force it if the joy is not behind you pushing....for completion ! for perfection ! 100% pure satisfaction.

Keep up the good work !

and for some inspiration !!! "Voila.....the ZF-1"



Now get building.... LOL

Some shots of the progress so far... I'm nearly done with the construction, ready for priming.

Norm's optics put into good use
For those who don't know, you can check the technique in the video below:
[youtube]mnqDgQY3XKg[/youtube]






I also built the rear additional SLAT Armour out of thick PE. It's playable and is really cool.





Turret mounts are neat too with some PE for the ammo:

I've taken a few shots of the final dry mockup. It is really menacing!!! -I'm sure you'll agree

I have made a final decision to not include the Plow. The reason behind this is because I really like the SEP TUSK II as it is by itself.

As you can see in the pics of previous post, it looks brilliant as is. The vehicle has such an appeal and I didn't want to attach the extra plow. Also, some modifications will need to be made for the plow to fit nicely and that takes away some of the TUSK II features.

I thank RUSS for the plow, which will be saved for the use on a standard Abrams in the future.

So now, it shall be called the "Badass Fortress"

I see you changed the Titile as well!

Too bad about the Plow!

Thanks for the shout out and good work on the optics!

schweinhund227 wrote:I see you changed the Titile as well!

Too bad about the Plow!

Thanks for the shout out and good work on the optics!

Thanks mate. Yeah shame about the Plow.

Question about the tracks. How should I approach it? They are tamiyas rubber ones which are not that bad. Still moveable and details ok.

I was thinking to just apply sandy pigments with fixer and a track wash. Will it stay on these tracks without priming? They are already black and I can just sand a hit of the pads after.

Like if I wanted to roll the tank the primer would chip off won't it?

For what you will see of them!

Use as is and drybrush and pigment as necessary....

Important!
~Remember to mask away all the glass and optics!
~I used Mr. Masking Sol NEO

She's all primed up (Tamiya Fine + Citadel Chaos Black Spray cans)

Looking really cool......

The fortress is all painted and varnished!

Getting ready for a sludge wash with OIF wash, a dark brown pin wash, and weathering with MIG oils and Pigments







and I just quckly whipped up and painted a 1/144 Trumpeter F22 raptor just for kicks

Looking sharp

Very nice!


The optics Rock !