1/72 Israeli Main Battle Tank Merkava Mk.4M w/Trophy Active Protection System

The Merkava Mk.4 is one of the most advanced main battle tanks developed and manufactured in Israel and represents the pinnacle of the long-running Merkava series, the design of which has, from the outset, placed exceptional emphasis on crew protection. A characteristic feature of the entire family is the front-engine layout, which creates an additional barrier between the threat and the crew. The Mk.4 variant features a more powerful powerpack, a modernised fire control system and improved armour, incorporating lessons learnt from combat operations in the Middle East.

The Merkava Mk.4M variant is equipped with the Trophy active protection system (known as Meil Ruach in Israel), which is capable of detecting and destroying incoming anti-tank guided missiles and anti-tank rockets before they strike the tank. It is precisely this feature that makes the Mk.4M one of the best-protected tanks of the present day, and its deployment has confirmed the effectiveness of active protection in real combat. For modellers and collectors of modern military equipment, this is an attractive subject that combines the imposing appearance of Israeli tanks with the latest crew protection technologies.

This 1:72 scale kit from Meng Model is designed for assembly and captures the characteristic shapes of the hull and turret, as well as the typical details of the Mk.4M variant, including the sensors and launchers of the Trophy system. The smaller scale is practical for modellers who wish to build modern armoured vehicles without requiring a large amount of space in a display cabinet, whilst also allowing for easy addition of other vehicles of the same scale to a unified collection or diorama. When painting, the typical Israeli ‘Sinai Grey’ shade is usually used, complemented by operational soiling, dust and edge wear consistent with a desert environment. The kit does not include the paints or adhesives required for assembly.