Precision Build: Tamiya 25216 - 1/35 M1A1 Abrams Tank Ukraine Model Kit  [25216]

Tamiya 25216 - 1/35 M1A1 Abrams Tank Ukraine kit: Practical overview for Canadian modellers

The M1A1 Abrams was introduced to US forces in August 1984. Originally fitted with a 105mm gun, later versions received the 120mm smoothbore, paired with an advanced fire control suite and a 1,500hp gas turbine engine. These upgrades helped the Abrams perform strongly in the 1991 Gulf War against T-72 type tanks.

In 2023 the US committed to supplying around thirty M1A1 tanks to Ukraine, highlighting the platform's ongoing operational relevance. Tamiya's 1/35 scale rendition captures that lineage, offering a build that balances display accuracy with hands-on assembly.

Model details for the builder

This kit faithfully represents the M1A1 Abrams' flat armour panels and the imposing 120mm smoothbore barrel. Fine touches such as engine compartment grilles and visible weld lines add to the scale realism. Nylon mesh is supplied for the turret rack cover to recreate factory details.

Decals in the box let you mark the hull as used by the units supplied to Ukraine, giving a clear historical reference. The kit uses belt-type tracks and includes photo-etched parts for crisp small details, resulting in a satisfying assembly experience for hobbyists.