Trumpeter 00309 Sweden Strv 103B MBT (1/35) – detailed model of the Swedish main battle tank

Trumpeter 00309 Sweden Strv 103B MBT in 1/35 scale is a high-quality plastic model kit faithfully representing one of the most unusual and innovative tanks of the 20th century. The Stridsvagn 103B, more widely known as the Strv 103 or "S-tank," is a Swedish main battle tank developed and used during the Cold War by the Swedish Armed Forces.

Unique features of the original

Designed in the 1960s, the Strv 103B stood out among its contemporaries through a range of innovative solutions. As the only main battle tank without a turret, it featured a fixed 105 mm smoothbore gun—fire control was achieved by altering the position of the entire vehicle, giving it an extremely low profile and making it difficult for enemies to detect. The tank also used both a diesel engine and a gas turbine, providing it with reliability, agility, and mobility in demanding Nordic terrain.

Historical usage

The Strv 103B entered service with the Swedish army in the early 1970s and remained in frontline use until the 1990s, when it was gradually replaced by Leopard 2 tanks. It never saw combat, but it was an important element of Sweden's defensive doctrine during the Cold War, ensuring military independence for the Scandinavian nation.

Trumpeter 00309 – what’s in the kit?

• 1/35 scale model consisting of precisely manufactured plastic (polystyrene) parts
• Realistic replication of the hull, suspension, and distinctive features of the Strv 103B tank
• Movable suspension parts, detailed side panels, and vehicle equipment details
• Decals enabling accurate reproduction of Swedish army markings
• Photo-etched parts for an even higher level of realism (e.g., meshes, fine details)
• Assembly instructions with clear diagrams

Category and target group

This is a plastic model kit intended both for intermediate and experienced military modelers. Due to the amount of detail and photo-etched elements, we recommend it for modelers with some prior experience.

Difficulty level: 4/5

We recommend this model to all military enthusiasts, especially those interested in Cold War armored vehicles and the unique technical innovations from Nordic countries. Trumpeter 00309 allows you to build an exceptional example of a tank that became one of the symbols of Swedish military innovation.