LIMITED EDITION Sturmgeschütz III Ausf. D Assault Gun

Add the Sturmgeschütz III Ausf. D set—in an expanded Limited Edition—to your collection, set against the backdrop of military operations in North Africa circa 1942. Discover a unique set available exclusively at official COBI stores and only while supplies last. The unique desert camouflage, a diorama base featuring a palm tree and exclusive figures ensure that this edition will never be re-released in this exact configuration. With the 1115 bricks included in the set, you receive: A detailed model of an assault gun—faithfully recreated, measuring nearly 20 cm in length with movable tracks and realistic markings. Movable elements—opening hatches, a movable gun barrel and removable armor sections. A detailed interior and Maybach HL 120 TR engine—featuring a removable "heart of the machine" and fully modeled crew stations ready for display. 4 unique figures, available only in this edition: • German General—a distinguished figure in a desert uniform and "sand-colored" military trousers, wearing an olive-drab peaked cap equipped with goggles. Distinctive red collar patches highlight his affiliation with the artillery branch. In his hand, he holds a "cane"—a short walking stick symbolizing high rank and command authority. • Vehicle Commander—an officer ready for action, dressed in an olive-drab uniform with a sand-colored garrison cap. He wears headphones and goggles on his head, the latter of which can be lowered over his eyes. Equipped with binoculars and a legendary Luger P08 pistol, he perfectly captures the atmosphere of frontline command. • Two German artillerymen—soldiers clad in desert uniforms and sand-colored Feldmütze caps. Red piping on their shoulder straps identifies them as artillery troops. Goggles—which can be worn around the neck or over the eyes—protect their vision from the sand, while one of the figures wears an additional face scarf for protection against desert dust. Armed with an MP 40 submachine gun and a Mauser 98K carbine, they are ready for any combat situation. Diorama Accessories—the set is enhanced by an atmospheric mini-diorama depicting a military water distribution point (Wasserausgabe). At its center stands a palm tree, set amidst a desert terrain base. An information sign bearing the inscription "WASSERAUSGABE" is planted in the sand. The scene is completed by bottles, jerrycans, grenades and a water barrel, creating a realistic tableau of a frontline support area. Arid vegetation elements surrounding the palm tree underscore the harshness of the desert landscape. As an interesting side note, the palm tree adorning the diorama is constructed from entirely new elements; these were used to craft its realistically rendered fronds, lending the entire model an even more refined and unique character. A Playful Monkey—also worthy of note is an unconventional touch: a small, mischievous monkey that adds a dash of humor to the scene... though you might want to keep a close eye on those grenades lying nearby! Exclusive black collector's plaque – laser-engraved with the model name, scale and limited edition number. Certificate of Authenticity – a numbered document signed by the CEO of COBI. Why you should own this set: • Limited Edition – there will never be another set or model exactly like this one. • Intuitive Construction – clear, step-by-step instructions suitable for both children and adult collectors. • Historical Value – captures the realities of combat in North Africa circa 1942, depicting water distribution points and the daily challenges of the rear support lines. • Expandability – combine this set with other models from the HISTORICAL COLLECTION WWII series to create your own battle scenarios. A German Assault Gun on the Desert Sands! The Sturmgeschütz III (StuG III) was a German assault gun from the Second World War era, built on the chassis of the Panzer III tank at the initiative of Erich von Manstein. Instead of a turret it featured a fixed superstructure housing a 75 mm cannon, which lowered the vehicle's profile and facilitated its camouflage. Approximately seven vehicles of this type were deployed during the North African campaign. They were adapted for operations in desert conditions, receiving a distinctive paint scheme as well as upgraded air filters and cooling systems. In Africa, the StuG III served in a dual role: providing infantry support and engaging enemy vehicles. Despite their limited numbers, these vehicles represent a fascinating chapter in the history of the Afrika Korps, demonstrating how German designs were adapted to the harsh conditions of the desert environment. During the North African campaign of World War II, the German Afrika Korps also established a water distribution system tailored to the desert conditions of Libya, Egypt and Tunisia. Supply points operated alongside water tankers and captured wells and were also supported by water transport via trucks. In the desert, water was a strategic resource—often more critical than fuel or ammunition. Consequently, a rigorous rationing system was implemented, based on daily quotas and ration cards. Now you can recreate this scene by building your own diorama, featuring a unique model and figures, to illustrate what a section of the African Front looked like circa 1942—a place where water and its distribution were often just as vital as ammunition and fuel. And how will this story end? That’s entirely up to you! But first, you have to build it! • 1,115 high-quality elements • Manufactured in the EU by a company with over 35 years of tradition • Meets safety standards for children's products • Fully compatible with other brands of construction blocks • Clear and intuitive instructions based on illustrations and step-by-step directions • Scale: 1:28 Model dimensions: 195 mm x 110 mm x 120 mm

Description provided by COBI