TankZone
is provided for tank enthusiasts by tank enthusiasts. We only supply
tanks that we run ourselves. Here's some photos of the Tamiya 1/16
Gepard anti-aircraft tank we have in our collection.
It
is a running model but we are in the process of upgrading some
of its components and add more functionality. The various moving
features are synchronised. For example the twin cannons elevates
as the turret rotates. The radar dish at the rear of the turret
is also motorised. We are modifying it for independent movement
using a six channel controller. We may even try to get the tracking
radar at the front of the turret to rotate.
This
1/16 scale Gepard is pre-DMD and came originally with a mechanical
speed controller. This has a tendency to overheat and it has
been replace with a more up-to-date electronic speed controller.
As it moves, the turret rotates, the twin guns moves up and
down and the radar dish at the rear of the turret rotates as
well. The gearbox is an ingenius piece of engineering. We will
do a more detailed report on this shortly. We will be keeping
you up to date with progress on a regular basis. Bookmark us
now!
The
Real Metal
The
Gepard entered West German service in 1976 as a anti-aircraft
tank to protect armoured formations. It is based on the hull
from the excellent Leopard 1 battle tank with reduced armour.
The powered turret contains the main twin cannon armament,
ammunition and fire control system and can traverse 360 degrees.
The two cannons are located outside of the turret to avoid
the problem of gun gas in the crew compartment. The acquisition
radar at the rear of the turret can traverse 360 degrees and
has a range of 19 km. The tracking radar located at the front
of the turret has a limit traverse of 200 degrees with a range
of 15 km. This controls the firing of the twin 35mm guns.
each gun fires burst of 20 to 40 rounds at a rate of 550 rounds
per minute with an effective of 3000 m. The Gepard is primarily
a self propelled anti-aircraft gun but has a secondary ground
combat capability. A total of 680 rounds of high explosive
incendiary and armour-piercing ammunition are stowed onboard.
Disclaimer
Our products represent subjects from a specific period in history. Some products
contain details, equipment, uniform and or vehicle that include insignia or marking
that some may find offensive. It is not our intension to glorify, nor exploit
the horrors and atrocities of war.
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