LEOPARD 1A3A1
Among the Bundeswehr tanks the Leopard 1A3 versions are rather rare sights at model shows as this special version is not available from any producer and kit conversions are not available either.
The main difference between the A3 and the A4 version is the commander’s periscope (the A4 the PERI R12). Behind the loader’s hatch is an opening covered by a round plate not found on the A4 version. The A3 has been upgraded with the PZB200 to A3A1 standard.
NICHIMO used to have an A3 in their program, but like most of their kits it was rather toy like and is out of production anyway.
I had such a kit and an older A4 kit of ITALERI so I decided to get the best out of both and build a state-of-the-art A3.
NICHIMO supplied the turret body. The hull and the turret details are from of ITALERI’s A4. A few but vital parts are from Revell's Leopard 1A1-A4 kit, the
PZB 200, the warning light on top of the turret, the periscope cleaners for the driver.
The A3 is mostly seen with the PZB 200 only, but the infra red searchlight can still be attached.
Model and Photos by: Andreas Hueger
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