Here's the result of 2 weekends modelling. An M4/FL-10 hybrid Sherman.
While the Israeli IDF with French help, mounted the French 75mm (developed from the Panther's gun) into existing Sherman turrets, using bustle counterweights and an extended mantlet, the Egyptians took an easier option, using the French designed upgrade mounting the AMX-13 turret on a Sherman chassis.
At this time, De Gaulle was attempting to maintaining good relations with both Arabs and Israelis until later Arab support for Nationalist movements in French colonies resulted in Israel becoming the beneficiary of French support.
Both sides had done so recognising that the Sherman was becoming increasingly obsolete. That said, the humble Sherman continued to serve in various armies into the 1980s, although much altered. Unmodified Shermans were used in the 1965 Indo-Pakistan war, alongside various upgunned versions using the US 76mm, French 75mm (in an unmodified turret) and Soviet 76mm (as used in the PT76).
A small number of unmodified M4 Sherman were used by the Egyptians in 1967 and there are pictures of knocked out M4 in Gaza. Officially, they were attached to or part of the 20th Palestinian Division, although at least one source indicates that while paid for, were not transferred to the Palestinians. As they and the FL-10 versions clearly served and were knocked out judging by photos, perhaps they remained crewed by Egyptians with the Palestinians not having time to train on them.
Numbers vary widely. A total of 50 were modified with the FL-10 turret, but many were lost in 1956. Between 40 and 80 Sherman of both versions seem to have been available in around 4 companies, possibly in two weak battalions in Gaza, Rafah, El Arish and the Jeradi defile. Many were in poor repair, with some dug-in as static defences. The Egyptians had problems with the complex AMX autoloader system due to poor maintenance.
Here's my version with a completely scratch turret on a slightly modified Roco M4.
Fascinating bit of tank history and a fine looking model.
ReplyDeleteThanks Jon. Some of the Egyptian M4 Shermans captured in 1956 ended up being converted by the Israelis into M50 Shermans. Probably the fourth owner and potentially serving in at least 3 or 4 wars....and a long way from Detroit!
ReplyDeleteNeil
Fairly cool. I wouldn’t even know where to begin to start such a project. 😀
ReplyDeleteStew, it's actually a lot easier than you think. I had despaired at ever having AMX-13s in 1:87 (before I discovered my Italian toy models) as the turret looks so complex. After finding the first 2 toy versions, I was able to see the turret can be split into two parts. I found an old Roskopf model M42 and realised the "turret" could form the basis of the circular bottom part with the top built up from layers of plasticard. The rest is careful cutting and sanding to get the rough shape . Good plans and photos are essential. Once you reach that stage, try and use bits from surplus. The cupola is actually from a Roco King Tiger. Add bits, either spare parts or cut to shape from plasticard. Apply filler - I use Milliput for big gaps and shaped areas as its easy to sand and liquid Green Stuff for filling little gaps. Paint covers a multitude os sins!
ReplyDeleteNeil
Lololol.
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