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It seems like ages since there was some really solid news from Dragon however, now there is some significant news on several different fronts....

The first two reports concern two products which were announced just prior to Dragon Expo:

6264 - Pz. Kpfw. IV Ausf.E (3 in 1)

The first two 'posters' have been produed of this significant new release (see images)

I won't repeat the details of the 80 features, they can be seen HERE

The next release was announced HERE and concerns the latest 251 Variant: 6284 - Sd.Kfz 251 Ausf. C mit Wurfrahmen (3 in 1). Now, thanks to information published on DRAGON U.S.A. homepage, we can bring the following features:

The three variants in this kit are:

- Sd.Kfz. 251 Ausf. C Wurfrahmen 40 w/ 32cm WK Flammgranate (32cm incendiary round rocket)

- Sd.Kfz. 251 Ausf. C Wurfrahmen 40 w/ 28cm WK Sprengranate (28cm HE round rocket)

- Sd.Kfz. 251 Ausf. C w/ 3.7cm PAK 36

The features presented in this new kit are as follows:

Main Features:

- newly tooled rocket launcher frames

- delicate launcher frames with subtle screw head details

- accurate launcher bases

- three different frame mounting plates

- both 28cm HE and 32cm incendiary projectiles available

- projectile fuses come as separate parts

- launchers can be assembled at different angles for firing

- projector mounting arms can be assembled folded or open for firing

- aiming rod by photo-etched part

- additional individual tracks

- brass width indicator rod

- clear vision blocks can be shown in open or closed position

Dragon technology included:

- slide-molded rocket crates with realistic wood grain

Photo-etched/Decals included:

- photo-etched parts for lower hull details

- photo-etched parts for the 3.7cm ammo round rack

- bonus PAK 36 gun shield photo-etched parts

- Cartograf decal sheets with a range of markings and license plates

Bonus items:

- authentic aluminium 3.7cm PAK barrel

- bonus driver included

Another piece of news, which is small but very significant, is the work being done on the HVSS Suspension by DML. Now, a reworking of the late model Shermans is underway, with major work being done on the running gear. This will be completely new and having seen the schematics of the parts breakdown, we are talking of some very significant progress on this most-criticized component of the HVSS Shermans...

Lastly, work on the forthcoming M1a1 Abrams is continuing at a frenetic pace. I was fortunate enough to actually examine the mock-up of the turret and to see images of the actual component breakdown in 3D images. This is looking like something which may well be the definitive M1a1 anywhere. More details when they become available, meanwhle, keep hoping its sooner rather than later!