Tamiya has released new models in it's pre-assembled Master Works series:
Pz.Kpfw III Ausf.L
Russian SU-122 Tank Destroyer
Coming Soon: A British Sherman Firefly and a Tiger.

MRC (Easy Model) has several new models, including:
KV-1
KV-2
PzKpfw 754(r)
Jagdpanther

The newly revised World Tank Museum plans to release it's "Kursk Series"
Tiger I
Panzer III
Nashorn
Panther D
T34/76
Su122
And several artillery/antitank pieces, including a: German anti-tank 7.5cm Pak, Soviet 7.62cm Zis 3 and a British lend/lease 6-Pdr. 5.7cm

Dragon will release a new tooling in 1:72 - a SU-100!
SU-100 1st Guards Mechanized Corps, Hungary 1945

In 1:35, Dragon plans to release the Super Heavy Self-Propelled Mortar 60cm Mörser "Loki". The Can.do version of this is superb. It will be interesting to see in in 1:35!

Finally, in 1/144, Dragon Can.Do will release a series of Stugs (also a new tooling):
A) StuG III Ausf.B Abt.226 'Operation Barbarossa' 1941
B) StuG III Ausf.F/8 StuG Abt.209, Eastern Front 1943
C) StuG III Ausf.G Unidentified Unit
D) StuH.42 10.5cm, Ardennes 1944
E) 15cm Sturm-Infanteriegeschutz 33 Ausf.Pz.III, StuG Abt.177, Stalingrad 1942
F) StuG IV Early Production StuG Brigade 907 Italy 1944
X) StuG III Ausf.F/8 StuG Brigade 243, Eastern Front 1943-44

The Classic Armor series from New Millennium Toys at Wal Mart has also released  the 1:43 scale military diecast in the ".VS series twin packs". I have seen a twin pack with a two Hummvees, one with a a rocket launcher, an the other configured as a cargo truck. The logos on the box are EXACTLY the same as the 21st Century 1:32 .VS series, further solidifying the link that New Millennium Toys is a offshoot of 21st Century providing toys in an arrangement with Wal Mart.

Panzer IV Ausf H in tan with brown and green camo and turret "skirt"
Panzer IV D in Gray

Coming Soon: A Merkava? The Can.Do series is often released early in Japan by Doyusha. The next Doyusha release is a series of Merkava tanks. Could we be seeing Can.do Merkava's soon???

Dragon Armor will be releasing the first Hummel in the series in October:
Hummel (Early Production), PzArtRgt 73, 1.Pz Div, Greece, Summer 1943

21st Century- has introduced its ".VS Iron Horses" series, featuring two 1/32 scale vehicles in one package. So far I have seen:
SdKfz 251/1 Hanomag VS SdKfz 222 Panzerspahwagen
Tiger Ausf E VS M18 Hellcat

Minichamps
T-72A/M1 Russia 1978 (350025000) December release
 M60 A1 Germany Late1970'S 'MERDC' (350041101) December release
The Centurion is now listed for release in September

Matchbox has release a new series under the name Battlekings name. Unfortunately, these are NOT re-releases of the 1970's Battlekings series, but re-packaged modern vintage vehicles. So far I have seen:
Night Landing: Dark livery; Helicopter, LVPT, Hovercraft?, Artillery piece, 3 soldiers
Sahara Strike: Desert livery; Abrams. Bradley, MRLV, Artillery piece, 3 soldiers
Jingle Recon: Green Livery: Swamp boat, Truck, M1 Abrams, Artillery piece, 3 soldiers (Abrams in the Jungle???)
Polar Rescue: Winter livery; Helicopter, Radar truck, Hummer??,Artillery piece, 3 soldiers

Forces of Valor will be releasing a new Extreme Metal 1/16 tank - a Tiger I patterned after one of Michael Wittman's Tiger's

Hobby Master: The first versions in 1:56 scale (3 tigers and 2 Abrams) are out. I have the gray  Tiger and an Abrams....and the quality is superb! Crisp details and excellent weathering. Hobby Master will be switching from 1:56 to 1:48 scale. According to William Liu at Hobby Master: "Due to popular demand, we will focus on developing 1/48 scale in the the future. The next one will be a King Tiger releasing in early August."

Dragon Armor: As most of you probably know, Dragon is FINALLY releasing some allied armor, a M4A3 Sherman tank in the livery of the 761st tank battalion, the "Black Panthers". This is an interesting selection, as Corgi has released this model in both 1:50 scale and small scale (approx 1:87). It will be interesting to compare these versions!

WWII - Skirmish: This appears to be the "next generation" of diorama-type offerings from Corgi. These new offerings will pair a WWII vehicle with 3 to 6 figures. The packaging will "compliment the models with battle scenes and diorama-style backdrops to make the models an attractive piece whether in or out of the box" (from the Corgi Catalog).

Forgotten Heroes (Korea):

Showcase/Corgi Collection (small scale) lineup:

Panzer III L
Panzer III H
Panzer III M (with skirts)
Crusader
M-10 Tank Destroyer
SU-85
M41A3 Walker Bulldog
Type 97 Japanese Medium Tank

I am really looking forward to the Walker Bulldog and the Type 97!
 

Blue text indicates master model is in progress. Red text indicates model is in planning stage. Black text, model is done and either being cast or getting molds done.

Current releases include: M26 Pershing, M26E2 Pershing, AS-90 SPG, JS-3, and a Maus:
 

Next releases:
 

Future releases:
German
King Tiger
Tiger
Elephant
Panther
Jagdpanther
Soviet
T34/76
T34/85
KV-1
KV-2
USA
M4
M4A1
M4A3
M4A3 76mm
M4A3E8

 

Tanks feature the cold war era (post WWII), and include:

• AMX30
• M48A3
• STRV 103 (Swedish Bofors Stradsvagn 103 MBT)
• M551 Sheridan
• T-10

Panzer III L - in production
Panzer III M
Panzer III H
M-10 Tank Destroyer
Crusader

From the site: "We are currently working on several 1:72 scale tanks. If anyone has pictures, history, paint schemes, or any other research on the tanks listed that you would like to share with us please email them to: TankResearch@AdmiralToys.com. Making our tanks as realistic as possible is our objective. Maybe you will see your favorite tank come to life in one of our models.
Thank you in advance --- Jim"

Dragon Can.do releases:

Dragon Abrams/Bradley twinpacks, 6 in total:

The tanks will be 1:72 scale. The first release will be a Panzer IIIL in North African livery and is expected in February, with four more in development. According to Jason, at Admiral Toys:

"They are primarily constructed of metal with the small accessory parts being ABS and PVC plastics. The turret turns 360 degrees and the barrel moves up and down; however, the tracks do not move.These are original molds tooled by my company.  You have never seen
these molds on the market before.
Our retail price for the Panzer IIIL will be $15.99."

From the Website:
"Our 1/72 Scale tanks are made of 90% metal. The quality that we can achieve with metal puts our models a step above the competition. We are not selling our tanks to mass retail outlets so our numbers a lot less than Matchbox or Dragon. With our limited numbers our tanks will only go up in value over time. Don't miss out on this first release and just wait, our tanks will only get better and more detailed!!!!!"

http://www.admiraltoys.com/

Thanks to Jason from Admiral!

1:18 Radio Controlled tanks!
Panzer IV Ausf H
M113A2

Each tread has independent control, turret rotates, cannon simulates firing. The Panzer IV the surrounding turret "skirt", and is done in a tan with Camo. You have a choice of silent running, or with "realistic" motor noises and firing canon. The vehicle rebounds on firing. Detail is good.
The M113A2 is green with a lot of extra stowage hung all over it.
Cost: $49.99 USD in the Houston area.

On a related note, New Millennium also makes a 1:48 set of Military Diecast:
M113A2
M998 Troop Carrier
Hummvee
AH-6 Little Bird

The tanks are available at Wal Mart.- although not available at all Wal Marts - stocking seems spotty.

Panzer II Ausf B?
Panzer III Ausf E
Pz38(t) Ausf G
Panzer III Ausf F
Panzer IV Ausf D
PanzerIV Ausf F1

Also Dragon Can.do is due to release Heavy Mortar's "Eva" and "Adam", and releases "Thor" and "Odin" with supporting railroad cars/equipment

"Unimax will also be coming out with a bunch of new 1:72 scale armor this spring. Up for grabs will be a Russian Su-122 self-propelled gun, German halftrack with rocket launchers, US M3A1 half-track, US M113 armored personnel carrier, German Mobelwagen flak gun, and a British Grant tank."

as posted on the Small Scale HQ message board and thanks to The Motor Pool
 

"Unimax just passed along their 2006 lineup. By the looks of things, I'm guessing that they'll be announcing even more product at Toy Fair in February cause the list looks, well, skimpy. Anyway, here's the new items as it currently stands and the tentative dates of release:

1:16th scale soldier assortment January
German 1:32 Sd. Kfz. 7/1 halftrack June
US 1:32 M4A3 Sherman w/3 soldiers Normandy January
German 1:32 88mm Flak gun w/5 crewmen April
US 1:32 M105 Howitzer w/3 crewmen July
US 1:32 MLRS January
US 1:32 LAV w/3 soldiers January
US 1:32 AAVP assault vehicle January
US 1:32 M109 Paladin SP Gun January
US F-14A Tomcat "Black Knights" January
4 different battlefield accessories sets January

Lightning2000
www.themotorpool.bigstep.com"

as posted on the Small Scale HQ message board and thanks to The Motor Pool
 

Thanks Steve!

Tiger, US60509, "Tiger Ace Michael Wittman". Light tan with a light camo pattern, 12/31/2005
T-34, US51603, Krasnoye Selo, Russia, January 1944, Winter Camo, 10/31/2005

More information at the Hobby Link Japan website.
www.hlj.com/product/DYSX-03
www.hlj.com/product/DYSX-04

Thanks to the 144 Mini Armour discussion board!

Thanks to Jorg on the  Small Scale HQ discussion board!

Thanks to Michigan Toy Soldier for posting this great news on their website!

Thanks Steve!
 

Panzer IV
Panther
T-34/76
SU-122
Tiger
Nashorn
Artillery - 3 types: Pak-40 75mm gun,ZiS-3 76.2mm gun, 6 pounder  gun

Each one will come in one of three color schemes.

Britains

King and Country

 12/30/2004 I found out the hard way (by buying them) that the Schuco "diecast" tanks are actually plastic. They are re-issues of the plastic Boley 1:87 tanks...buyer beware!

12/23/2004 Lenours at Militaire Solido Verem wrote me with an update on the 2005 lineup:

"The French marks Solido and Verem envisage for 2005 of many new military models. Their publications will be distributed over several months of the year. The list includes mainly :
HUMMER H1
SHERMAN M4A1 (moulded hull)
BRUMMBAR Pz.Kpfw.35F (Germany)
M8 "Greyhound"
BERLIET GBC Shelter J
EEP with 106mm gun
CITROEN C4 DCA (french army)
ACMAT 6x6
PEUGEOT P4 RADIO OPERATOR
PEUGEOT 403 Station-wagon
RENAULT R35 "Captured"
VAB with Hot turret
AMX-13 Sanitary
Will be added to the references of the catalogue ; 25 models only for the french editor HACHETTE BOOKS."

Thanks to Lenours from Militaire Solido Verem!

12/21/2004 Several Force of Valor repaints and some new items have appeared at Target and Toys-R-Us. These are "action series" models, but in several instances they sport some very nice paint jobs (for example: the Sherman and the Matilda). Of these, AAVVP1A1 had not been pre-advertised by Unimax. Three other models (Paladin, M113,LAV-25, seem to have been given exclusively to one or two distributers - apparently Target, and perhaps Toys-R-Us. I have picked up a Sherman and a Matilda, and I hope to post pictures soon.

Information collected from the Small Scale HQ message board, and personal observation.

12/19/2004 Cintia F. wrote me about two new Corgi Tactical strike models. The new canvas back Humvee and heavy truck are now out at Target.
Thanks Cintia F.
I also found at my local Target, the new Tactical Strike Humvee Ambulance.

12/18/2004 I just heard from Jim at JT's Collectibles:
"....I have a few updates for you to post straight from the horses mouth.

Can Do Pocket Army:

The long awaiting beginning of large German mortars and rail guns is finally becoming a reality. First, there will be 4 versions of the German Super Heavy Self-Propelled Mortar at $9.99 each, #20027 and 2 versions of the German Railway Gun 28cm K5(E) "Leopold" with diorama display at $17.95 each, #20025.

Dragon Armor:

Where do I start? This company has really cranked up the volume on releases since hitting the market in 2003 and working through delays. Unfortunately, DML and or their authorized distributors have really stuck it to the resellers with repeated price increases since 2003. As a result, expect to see $14.99 suggested retail in the future. The market is soft now, but prices will firm up next year. Starting in January there will be a Panther F, 2 King Tigers, and 2 AAV (amphibious assault vehicle). Also, in 2005 expect to see the Sherman, German Hanomag, Sturmgeschutz IV, T-34, Leopard, JagdTiger, Jadgpanther, Panther G, Hummel, Humvee, Ferdinand, Elephant, Brummbar, Challenger II, LVTP, Bradley, and Tiger I. Of course, many are repaints, but there are also a number of new tank models as well in 2005."

Thanks to Jim at JT's Collectibles

12/5/2004 Corgi will be releasing new versions of vehicles and figures in it's 1/64 Tactical Strike Series, including an M1A1 Abrams with mine plow, a new version of the Bradley, and at least one new set of figures.

11/28/2004 The new Corgi Showcase "History Channel Century of War - Tanks" releases have hit some of the Targets, according to Steve:
"I noticed a few of the new Corgi Showcase tanks showing up at Target in Taunton, MA over the last couple of weeks. They come in the usual Fighting Machines packaging with a "GREAT TANKS" label on the front.   Interesting thing is that they are part of the History Channel collection as shown by the card inserts.   Saw the following:
Churchill - Italy
Abrams - Ft. Hood Camo
Abrams - USMC Desert Storm
Sherman - Crossing Rhine
Sherman - Korean War
M48 Patton - with Tiger mouth  
Did not notice any German tanks."
Thanks Steve!

In addition to the tanks Steve saw, this series will also include a Tiger and a Panther.

11/21/2004 According to Diecast Direct, the Forces of Valor 1:72 armour will be released in April, 2005.

10/24/2004 Some Corgi releases for 2005:
CC51020 M4A3 Sherman Tank, Germany, 1945
CC60009 Krauss Maffei 8 ton personnel carrier
CC60210 Panther Ausf G, winter camo
CC60410 M3 Halftrack, Germany, 1945
CC60411 M16 Multiple Gun Carriage, Belgium, 1945
CC60506 Tiger Ausf E, Kurland, 1944
CC60606 Cruiser tank A34 Comet Mk !, Germany, 1945
CC60607 Cruiser tank Mk VII Cromwell MK VI, Western Europe, 1945
US50206 M35 2.5 ton truck
US50307 M46 tank, USMC
US51103 M114 Ambulance armoured

Thanks Mike M.

10/8/2004 More from The Motor Pool as posted on the Small Scale HQ discussion forum regard their plans to release 1:72 armour in 2005:
"According to Unimax, here's the tentative breakdown for the 1:72 scale diecast armor line:

Modern:
US M1A1 Abrams tank in desert tan
US M3A2 Bradley Cavalry Vehicle in desert tan
UK Challenger 2 tank in desert tan
Iraqi T-72 tank in desert camo

WWII:
King Tiger tank in Norman camo
Tiger I tank in Norman camo
US M4A1 Sherm in Olive Drab
British Churchill in green

Again, this is preliminary info they're providing to us as a courtesy and, of course, they're collecting audience. This could change once the Hobby Show has concluded and they mull over the feedback they receive. From what we hear, the vehicles will have the same weathered appearance as their 1:32 scale brethren. What isnt clear if they'll come with accessories and/or figures like the FOV line. Just a guess but I think not.

We don't as yet, have the breakdowns for the figures or aircraft assortments. We'll post them as soon as we do... "Thanks again to The Motor Pool

10/7/2004 From The Motor Pool website:
"After much anticipation, Unimax has finally announced their 2005 lineup. In a nutshell, here's what you can expect over the course of the next year:

FOV - Modern:
US Marines, 1st Marine Division Figure Pack - Desert Storm
US M1036 Humvee
US M60A1 Patton Tank in green
UK Challenger Tank
US AH-64D Apache Longbow
US UH-60G Pave Hawk helicopter

FOV-WWII:
Zundapp with side car - eastern front
StuG III Ausf. G - eastern front
Panzer IV Ausf. G Tank - eastern front
Panzer IV Ausf. F1 Tank - eastern front
German Tiger I Tank - eastern front
Russian T-34/85 Tank - eastern front
UK Matilda Tank - North Africa
UK 7th Armored Div, 3rd Regiment Figure Pack
UK M3 Grant Tank -North Africa
UK M4A3 Sherman Tank - Italy
US 82nd Airborne Figure Pack - Normandy
German Kubelwagen - Normandy
US M3A1 Halftrack - Normandy
German Sd. Kfz. 251/1 Halftrack - Normandy
German Panther Ausf. G Tank - Normandy
German Wirbelwind - Normandy
German Jagdpanther - Market-Garden
German Schwimmwagen - France
German King Tiger Tank - France

Extreme Metal 1:32 Planes:
P-51D Mustang - Glamorous Glen III
P-51D Mustang - Cripes A Mighty 3rd
Spitfire Mk. IX - 134 Wing
Spitfire Mk. IX - 132 Wing
German Bf-109G-6 - Red 29
German Bf-109G-6 - Eismmer

1:32 Soldiers of Steel Figures

1:72 Micro Military Vehicles
1:72 Micro Soldier Assortment
1:72 Micro Military Plane Assortment

We're currently awaiting the assortment breakdown for the 1:72 scale line. We're also waiting for images of all the new items but will begin listing the new items in their respective sections. " Thanks to The Motor Pool

9/23/2004 From The Motor Pool website:
"Looks as if German-based Schuco is no longer gun shy and ready to take a more active role in the diecast military market. While they've been producing 1:10 scale military motorcycles for several years, and roll out a 1:43 scale command car every so often, it now looks like they're going to test the deeper waters with a line of 1:87 scale WWII-themed combat vehicles. Six tanks are expected for the holidays, among them a German Tiger I, Panther and Jagdpanther, as well as a US M4 Sherman, M5 Stuart and M36 Jackson. Priced at only $9.99 apiece, these battle wagons are sure to make great stocking stuffers and will almost certainly take the industry by storm as the series expands. " Thanks to The Motor Pool

9/14/2004 Lenours emailed me with the following news from Verem:
"The french firm Verem try for the first time the "VPC" (vente par
correspondance : shop by mail). No website and for the french market
only (Sorry...). The first models are alvailable in box/dioramas :
Sherman M4A3 dozer with soft armour,
Panther G with side armour,
GMC 6x6 with 12,7 machine gun (muddy rain),
Jeep SAS with hedge cutter + Jeep Red Cross,
Hanomag SdKfz 251 with canvas,
Citroën Traction "Gasogène" of the FFI

Price : 27,50 euros for each box.

Bye
Lenours from MSV"
Thanks to Lenours from Militaire Solido Verem!

8/21/2004 The next Dragon Can.do 1/144 tank series (Japanese release) will be Nashorn/Hornisse. Hornisse (Hornet) was the original designation given the Nashorn.

8/7/2003 As a quick note, I just got my new Minichamps T-34 (captured german livery) and the new Minichamps Tiger (gray with brown camo stripes). The T-34 is very nice. The Tiger is VERY VERY nice (no, I had to pay for my models, so this is not a paid advertisement for Minichamps). I'll get pics up in 2-3 weeks......

8/1/2004 PanzerPlace emailed me to let me know:
"Just an update on POPY's new release:   Some of the expected bonuse items include a German  halftrack, 37mm Pak antitank gun and a Puppchen" Thanks PanzerPlace

7/30/2004 According to Michigan Toy Soldier, Corgi will soon be releaing the following 1/87 models:

7/28/2004 Mathcbox has released 2 new Shermans. These are from the the old CDC Armour models, but but in new color schemes not released by CDC armour! Model numbers: B6945 - Sherman M4A3/76 and B6944 - Sherman M4A3/75. Check your local Target! WOW!

Pictures at The Flying Mule :http://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/MB-B6944_01_lrg.gif, http://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/MB-B6945_01_lrg.gif

Thanks to ez470 and Hworth18 on Groundpounder's great message board/forum.

7/26/2004 A company call Popy (http://www.popy-bg.co.jp/popynews/pp00_news.html) has entered the 1/144 tank arena with their Projekt Panzer set. These tanks will cost more than World Tank Museum and Dragon Cando, but will reportedly have a high level of detail. The tanks will require limited assembly (no cement needed) and are pre-painted. Round one will consist of:

No.1-2 : Tiger I Type 43 (Desert and Winter scheme)

No.3-4 : Tiger I Type H2 (Desert and Winter scheme)

No.5-7:  Panzer III Ausf.L (German Grey, Desert and Winter scheme)

No.8-9:  Wespe Ammunition Transport (German Grey and Desert scheme)

No.10-11:  Wespe Tank (German Grey and Desert scheme)

No.12:  Panzer II Ausf.D/E (German Grey scheme)

No.13: M3 Lee Tank (USA Green scheme)

No.14: M3 Lee Grant Tank (Desert Scheme)

Thanks to infinitelooptoys

7/19/2004 Dragon Can.Do has released their 1/144 Panzer III series and the Ferdinand/Elephant series. Their Panzer IV series may be released this month (Dragon is not very good at hitting release dates). The next series will be the 1/144 Warrior/Challenger series (released in Japan as Series 12). I don't have a US release date for this series.

7/10/2004 Miscellaneous news bits:
World Tank Museum will come out with" release number 6 in September.

Dragon will release a limited edition 1:72 scale diecast replica of a German Ferdinand tank destroyer packed in a special presentation tin. Production will be limited to 1,943 pieces.

From Andy Moffat: "My FOV sales rep phoned me to tell me "The new batch of FOV items are to be shipped to dealers around July 12th.
The following vehicles are in this first release; "Iraqi Freedom" version M3A2 Bradley, M1A1 Abrams and Blackhawk, "Battle of the Bulge" version Schwimmwagen, US jeep, M16 halftrack, M4A3 Sherman and Stug III, "Battle for Germany/Italy" King Tiger, Battle for Normandy" 251/9 Hanomag, "Russian Front" 251/1 Hanomag, Tiger I, Mark IV G and Mark IV F.
So it looks like 10 repaints and 4 new vehicles this time around.

6/23/2004 From The Motor Pool (as posted on Groundpounders message board/forum) regarding July releases:

"Minichamps:
- 1:35 King Tiger heavy tank
- 1:35 T-34 tank in captured German livery
Forces of Valor:
- 1:32 German PzKpfw IV Ausf F1 tank
- 1:32 German PzKpfw IV Ausf G tank
- 1:32 German Sd. Kfz. 251/1 halftrack
- 1:32 German Sd. Kfz. 251/9 halftrack
- new repaints to include King Tiger, Tiger I, US M16 halftrack, StuG III, jeep, M1A2 Abrams, M3 Bradley Cavalry Fighting Vehicle
Dragon:
- Tiger I with zimmerit
- US M1 Abrams tanks with mine plough
- British Challenger 2 tank
- British Challenger 2 tank with upgraded armor
21st Century:
- Second Wave of Cold Steel products and some repaints
Corgi:
- Loads of new History Channel aircraft and assorted other pieces
The Motor Pool:
- customized 1:35 Sd. Kfz. 7 prime movers
- Russian Black Eagle main battle tank
Gaso.Line:
- Lots of stuff, too numerous to mention here"

Thanks to The Motor Pool, and to Groundpounder for his great message board/forum.

6/8/2003 From the Michigan Toy Soldier Newsletter:
"Forces of Valor have informed us that their first wave of 2004 releases will arrive in the US at the end of June and we will be receiving these about the second week of July. This release will include the all new German Sd Kfz 251/1, German Panzer IV Ausf G and the German Jagdpanther and the new paint schemes for the exsisting vehicles. 
21st Century Toys has announced the much anticipated release of the new 1:32 Scale Cold Steel Series 2. This new wave includes two German mobile anti-aircraft tanks:  the Flakpanzer IV Wirbelwind and the Flakpanzer IV Mobelwagen and two German Tanks or Panzerkampfwagens:  the Sd.Kfz. 141 Panzer III Ausf. L with 50mm gun and the Sd.Kfz. 161/2 Panzer IV Ausf. H with armored skirting. These composite Die Cast Tanks are the first all tooling by 21st century in several years and come with two figures each. Due 3rd week of July."

6/5/2004 Jim T. reports: "I have a few updates regarding Matchbox Collectibles. This year MC has changed it's strategy for military collectibles. The MC military aircraft are being released in "Waves" of 3 aircraft each and 6 total "Waves" for the entire collection for a total of 18 aircraft. Just this weekend, the 3rd Wave of military aircraft has started to be released. I was lucky and found them; they are not even on E-Bay yet which tends to be 4 weeks ahead of retail distribution. The 3rd Wave release includes: Matchbox Collectibles Peoples Republic of China MIG-15, Matchbox Collectibles North American F-100D Super Sabre, Lt. Joe H. Engle and the Matchbox Collectibles F-104D Starfighter. The detail, quality and paint schemes are very good.
I've heard word that the Matchbox Collectibles armor will be coming out soon as well. I will update everyone when I actually see the first release. " Thanks Jim T.

5/27/2004 The Japanese version of Dragon Can.do Panzer III's have been released. They can be seen on eBay, or purchased through Hobby Link Japan. As they are the Japanese version "trading tanks", these individually boxed tanks are randomly packed and do not have display cases.

5/24/2004 According to Corgi's UK website, Corgi has released a new version of their showcase "A History of Tank Warfare" featuring a: M-48, Churchill Tank, Scorpion Tank, Tiger I. Stock number: CSCW25004. Corgi has also released a new D-Day four pack: "Sword Beach", which will include a Churchill, Panther, Kubelwagen, and an M8 Grayhound. Stock number: CSCW24004
Corgi has also released Four new Showcase twin packs with figures:
El Alamein - Twin Pack 1 (CSCW22002) with a Stuka Divebomber and a Churchill tank and
El Alamein - Twin Pack 2 (CSCW23002) with a Panzer IV and a Jeep.
Sword Beach- Twin Pack 1 (CSCW19002) with a Sherman and a Tiger.
Sword Beach- Twin Pack 2 (CSCW21002) with a Panther and a Spitfire.

Most of these are also noted as individual releases as well. The big news it the Panther...I hope it makes it to the US!

5/15/2004 The Missing Lynx website is reporting even more Dragon Armor (http://www.missing-lynx.com/, discussion groups, braille scale):
On the drawing board:
Panzer III
Panzer IV
T-34
M4A3 Sherman

5/12/2004 Todd H. sent me this:
"The Corgi Showcase D-Day vehicles are appearing in two-packs in Wal-Mart stores, priced the same US$3.88 as the previous Showcase single packs. Each case seems to contain two sets of six packs. I've already seen them being sold on eBay for US$5 apiece. The two-pack makeup is:
Utah Beach Set #1: Sherman (green with redbrown camo) + C-47 Dakota
Utah Beach Set #2: Tiger (yellow with green & dark brown camo) + P-51 Mustang
Omaha Beach Set #1: M8 armored car + P-38 Lightning
Omaha Beach Set #2: Panzer IV (yellow with dark green camo) + B-17 Flying Fortress
Omaha Beach Set #3: Medic Jeep + half track (redbrown camo, heavy sand weathering makes it almost look like 3-tone camo)
Juno Beach Set: Churchill (drab brown) + Lancaster
They look pretty good - no shiny unpainted plastic gun barrel like the Battle of the Bulge Tiger." Thanks Todd!

5/1/2004 Peter M. was nice enough to send me this link: "The complete Corgi Fall lineup with pictures is found at www.modelenium.co.uk" Thanks Peter!

4/26/2004 Jay M., an armour enthusiast, emailed to say "Corgi has also released a M8 "greyhound" armour car and a churchill tank in its showcase series for 60th D-day series. I also saw a corgi showcase press release for an El Alamein panzer IV long barrelled, a jeep and you, got it another, churchill. Not sure when they will reach Canada / North America best wishes Jay" Thanks Jay!

4/24/2004 According to Michigan Toy Solidier, Corgi will release 7 new WWII vehicles in their Showcase line to Comemorate D-Day:

Also from Michigan Toy Solidier: Dragon has a LARGE number of planned releases in their 1/72 Dragon Armor line, a lineup of preassembled and painted tanks made of metal and plastic.

4/4/2004 Two of the new Corgi WWI era releases are out on eBay in the UK, the Churchill (sword beach) and a Panther. Hopefully they will reach the USA soon! Thanks Jason M.

4/2/2004 Jim T. sent me news about the Dragon Armour 1/72 diecast tanks. It seems they are now coming out with 'limited editions' of each release. Jim reports:
"Starting with the Dragon Armor Jagd-Tiger, sPzJgAbt 653, Alsace 1945 which was just released (I picked mine up today), there will be 3-6 SPECIAL EDITION versions contained within each case of 48 regular models of each particular tank release. I did manage to get both the regular and special edition versions of this particular Jagd-Tiger. The only real difference that I could see taking a quick glance of the two models is this; the metal mount that keeps the gun stationary during movement is in the up position (stimulate a moving tank) vs. the usual arrangement where the metal mount for the gun is in the down position.... " Thanks Jim T.
I had seen this on eBay, but wasn't sure of the validity. Thanks to Jim for info!!!

3/28/2004 The first of Series 8 in the Dragon Can.do models has hit eBay. Series 8 consists of variations on the Elephant. eBay has an Elephant and a Bergepanzer up for bid now, so the series should be hitting the general market soon. As the seller is in Asia, it is uncertain if this will also be a USA release, or whether it will be restricted to the Asian market for a while.

3/26/2004 Dragon USA has announced upcoming release of a new series in the Can.do 1/144 armour: the Panzer III. Dragon plans to release the following models:
"Pz III Ausf. G, PzRgt 5, 5.le-Div., North Africa May-June 1941
Pz III Ausf. M, 3.SS-PzGrenDiv. "Totenkopf", Kursk 1943
PzBefWg Ausf. H, 6.PzDiv. Russia 1943
Pz III Ausf. F, 3.PzDiv. France May 1940
Pz III Ausf. E, 10.PzDiv. "Blitzkrieg", 1940
PzBeobWg Ausf. H, PzGrenDiv "Großdeutschland" Russia 1943
Tauch Pz III Ausf. H, 4.PzDiv., Russia 1941 --- SPECIAL "
Release date is May, 2004, but Dragon seems to have a lot of problems making their release dates.

3/20/2004 Bob at CR Grace Collectibles sent me some information on Solido/Verem and Dragon "Just a heads up...according to the US distributor they are no longer going to be stocking Solido Verem products...thats why nobody was selling the new models except the Europeans." also "...some news from the manufacturer Dragon may be producing a new 1/48 or 1/35 scale lineup in the near future since they already have the molds created" Thanks Bob

3/4/2004 Andy of Andy's Tanks and Soldiers emailed me to let me know: "Minichamps has just announced the release of a  LIMITED EDITION Sherman M4A3  to celebrate the 60^TH Anniversary of D-Day Normandy. This Sherman was used by the famous WW2 USA Tank Ace Creighton Abrams from Patton's 3rd Armored Division / HQ CORP 4^TH BATTALION." "...Minichamps will only make enogh to satisfy initial orders from dealers." Thanks Andy!

3/2/2004 Dragon has released several models in it's 1/144 Panzer Korps lineup. These are 1/144 scale plastic model kits, which need assembly. Each box/set comes with two different tanks. Currently there are four sets:
Sturmtiger and Demolition Tiger
Maus and Early Tiger
German E100 and Late Tiger
PZ 38(t) and Panzer IV Ausf D.

According to Hobby Link Japan: "Finally, Dragon has released a kit version of their popular "Micro Armor" in 1/144 scale under the series title "1:144 Panzer Korps". The third release is a set which includes an E100 Super-Heavy tank(a 140-ton monster that was never completed) and a Tiger I (late model). The kit is made of ABS (injection plastic), so CA cement will be required to build it. The molds are very fine and the number of parts are few. A tiny brass photo-etched set for the engine grilles is included. Turret numbers and insignias are provided on a gorgeous set of water slide decals printed by the world-famous Cartograf."

Four more sets are planned for a May release.

2/25/2003 Johnny Lightning Military Muscle Release 4 has hit the stores. Two new tank castings are available in this series: an M3 General Lee, and an M3 General Grant.
Release 5 is due in June contents are sketchy. One dealer reports that the release will feature: a Jeep, Humvee, Panther tank, Dodge WC54 - military police, FA18 Hornet, and a WWII halftrack. A different dealer advertises that the release will have:‘60s Jeep, United Nations Chevy Tahoe, P-51, P-40, P-47 and Corsair.

2/22/2004 Please follow this link to Diecast Direct's excellent review of the NY toy fair. Thanks Mr Football

2/22/2004 Jim T. has news about 21st Century Toys:
"Here is the line-up for 2004 with the most current information that I'm be able to get:
“Cold Steel” line from 21st Century Toys:

I. First Qtr 2004
a. German Sd. Kfz. 141 PzKpfw III Ausf. D Medium Tank - Early Afrika Korps Pattern
b. German Sd. Kfz. 171 PzKpfw V Panther Ausf. G Medium Tank - Ambush Pattern
c. US M4 Sherman Medium Tank (Olive Drab Paint/Winter Weathering Scheme)
d. US M24 Chaffee Light Tank
e. German Sturmgeschutz IV Assault Gun - Summer Camouflage
f. German Sd. Kfz. 181 PzKpfw VI Tiger I Ausf. E Heavy Tank - Normandiefront, 1944
g. US GMC M18 Hellcat Light Tank Destroyer
h. German Sd. Kfz. 7 8-Ton Prime Mover - Early Afrika Korps Pattern

II. Second Qtr 2004
a. US M4A3 Sherman Medium Tank (2nd release of the Sherman)
b. German Flakpanzer IV Mobelwagen Anti-Aircraft Vehicle
c. German Sd. Kfz. 141 Panzer III Ausf. L Medium Tank (2nd release Panzer III/summer camo)
d. German Sd. Kfz. 161 PzKpfw IV Ausf. H Medium Tank " Thanks Jim T.

2/21/2004 GI Gene sent these great pictures of Dragon models at the toy fair:
"Dragon displayed some pretty cool new Dragon Armor items at this year's Toy Fair. Pictures of them can be found at Dragon's webpage: http://www.dragonmodelsltd.com/nytoyfair2004/toyfair.htm

The Toy Fair Coverage at www.figures.com (Dragon section Page 6): http://69.93.35.18/photo/1/showgallery.php?cat=1326&si=&page=6&sort=1&perpage=12&password=&ppuser=
Cheers, GI Gene" Thanks GI Gene

2/20/2004 The Motor Pool just came back from New York Toy Fair, and had this to post on Groundpounders website.
Regarding the FOV 1/16 King Tiger:
"This beast is incredible and will come packaged in a heavy wooden "ammunition crate" protected by a foam inner core. We guesstimate the shipping weight to be around 35 pounds and the tracks, near as I can make them out weight approximately 2-3pounds each. Two other 1:16 scale tanks are due out in 2005: a M1A2 Abrams followed by a Tiger I heavy tank. The rest of the 1:32 scale line looks great with lots of detail and sharp-looking paint schemes."

"Corgi will be adding alot of new WWII ground vehicles that were scheduled for release in the UK but will now be brought here. Included are a Cromwell tank, Cruiser Tank Mk. VIII Centaur IV tank, Beford QLD supply truck, and yet another Churchil Mk. III tank. They also plan to announce their 2nd half lineup early, possibly in late March. They confirmed that alot more ground vehicles are in the pipeline and we should have the skinny soon."

"As far as Dragon goes, they had a showcase full of beautiful 1:72 scale armor which included a Bradley (with working rear ramp), USMC AARV (also with working rear ramp), King Tiger with Porsche turret, and lots of new paint schemes. They also have a surprise announcement for the second half of 2004 (my lips are sealed, sorry) and lots of 1:72 scale warbirds due out this year as well."

"Minichamps will be coming out with Creighton Abrams "Thunderbolt" M4A3 Sherman tank to coincide with the D-Day landings and showed us a prototype of the King Tiger tank, which will actually be painted in a dappled autumn ambush scheme, much nicer than the photograph they originally posted on their web site. They acknowledged that the M1A2 SEP sported an upside down gun, which will be corrected prior to production...."

"...after perusing the Dragon 1:72 scale Armor catalogue, I noticed there's a lot of new vehicles slated for release in 2004 that weren't on display. Here's the list of additional products in the pipeline:
- Challenger II (KFOR)
- Demolition Tiger/ recover vehicle
- Panther Type F
- British Challenger II with upgraded armor (Iraq, 2003)
- Challenger II (KFOR)
- M1025 Humvee
- M1097 Humvee
- M1045 Humvee
- German Leopard II A5 main battle tank
- German Leopard II A6 main battle tank
- USMC LVTP-7 amphibious vehicle
- German Brummbar assault gun
Also, some of the new series of German tanks will now feature zimmerit anti-magnetic mine paste for extra realism. Really sweet looking stuff at a great price. "
The Motor Pool: reposted from Groundpounders Message Board; The Motor Pool, Goundpunders 21x site

2/15/2004 '101stAirborne' reports: "FOV is moving into 1:16 scale armor with their new Extreme Metal Series with the first release being the King Tiger.  This series has real metal tracks, interior/exterior detail, working suspension, and priced around $200.  More information and picture can be seen on the the Michigan Toys website here: http://www.michtoy.com/MTSCnewSite/preorder_release_folder/NurnbergToyFair2004folder/FofV_folder/FofV_Nurnberg.html"Thanks to '101stAirborne'

2/14/2004 Jim T has news about upcoming Matchbox releases:
"Military Tank Models:
1. Sherman Tank M4A3 with 76 mm gun in a Forest Road diorama
2. Sherman Tank M4A3 with 105 mm gun in Liberated city diorama
The old boxes and plastic dioramas are being replaced with a new card diorama and larger packaging. This might be something like previous smaller military models. Pricing will be the same, so they are cutting costs by using cheaper packaging.
Military Aircraft Models:
There will be a new marketing strategy for the aircraft in 2004. Matchbox will be releasing 6 waves of aircraft models this year. There will be 3 models in each release for a total of 18! WOW. Also, there will be 2 new aircraft models and 1 repaint for each wave released in 2004. (12 new and 6 repaints). " ...
"The models are of good quality. The packaging is cheaper than previous releases. Unfortunately, the only way to remove the model is to destroy the plastic packaging. " Thanks Jim T.

2/8/2003 Andy of Andy's Tanks and Soldiers emailed me about the 2004 FOV releases: "All 2004 Forces of Valor repaints have been delayed until April and new models are due out in June."

2/7/2004 '101stAirborne' reports: "Walmart has a new line of motorworks 1/18 scale diecast M2 bradley's and Shermans that appear to be by 21st Century toys. Also minichamps plans to release a king tiger and a M1A2 which can be seen on their site http://www.minichamps.de/default.asp?language=En under the products and military section." Thanks to '101stAirborne'

2/6/2004 Tom at Fetco advises that New Ray is bringing out the following items:
M-3 Lee Tank
M3A2 Tank
M16 Tank
T80 Tank
From Groundpunders32x message board

2/1/2004 Olivier Saint-lot of from Quarter-Kit has announced the following Gaso.line releases:.
AS50815MUS Sherman Deep Wading D-Day (Solido basis) (re-issue)
GAS50815MGB Sherman Deep Wading D-Day (Solido basis) (re-issue)
GAS50853M Panzerjäger Jagdpanther Sd.Kfz.173 with zimmerit (Solido basis)
GAS50870M Canadian Tank Observation Post RAM II (Solido basis)
GAS50871M German FlaKpanzer IV "Möbelwagen" 37 mm FlaK43 (Solido basis)
GASSPE01M Exceptional Heavy Mörser Karl 600mm
GAS50075MF French infantery schlepper with trailer and cannon

1/28/2004 Corgi has joined up with The History Channel to release several new WWII vehicles (planes and tanks). They appear to be the WWII series models with new paint schemes. Three tanks in the lineup are:
Panther G
Sherman
Churchill
The price will be $25 (wow!), the scale is 1:50, and the expected release date is March, 2004

1/18/2004 The Dragon Armour 1/72 Panther has made it to eBay and the King Tiger is available (low stock) at Hobby Link Japan. This usually means that the models are 2-3 weeks from being generally available from retailers.

1/17/2004 Diecast Direct also lists the following new 2004 military releases for Minichamps:
GERMAN SD KFZ 7 8-TON SEMI-TRACK
GMC 353 MILITARY TRUCK
U.S. M60 BATTLE TANK
VW TYPE 82 KUBELWAGEN (DESERT)

1/13/2004 Diecast Direct has information on Corgi releases for 2004:
CORGI C60204 GERMAN PANTHER TANK ''4TH COMPANY''
CORGI C60005 GERMAN SdKfz 7 QUAD GUN
CORGI C60501 GERMAN TIGER I
CORGI C51010 US M4A3 SHERMAN
CORGI C51011 US M4A3 SHERMANT W/EXHAUST STACKS - equipped for wading
CORGI C60401 US M3A1 HALF TRACK ''US ARMY''
Jim T pointed this out to me, and added the releases will be from March 2004 to June 2004. To me the BIG news is the TIGER. If Corgi does the Tiger as well as they have done the other WWII tanks, it should be awesome! Thanks Jim T.

1/12/2004 Jens M. of the 1-87 Military Models group on Yahoo has this link to the 2004 ROCO releases.

1/11/2004 Jim T. reports: "Can Do Pocket Army 1:144 Scale Armor. It looks like the Bradley and Panther series will be released in Jan 2004 (late Jan) and the Tiger I series is due in Feb 2004. Also, Dragon Armor; The King Tiger, next series of Jagdpanther and the Jagd-Tiger are due out in Feb 2004. As always, Dragon is late on releases; 4-8 weeks out."

Michigan Toy Solider also reports:
Dragon Armor  1:72 Die Cast
Due Week of January 20, 2004:
60009 Panther G. Early Production PzRgl 15, 11 PzDiv, Southern France 1944
60010 Panther G. Early Production PzRgt 35, Kurland, September 1944
 Due Early February:
60003 King Tiger, Henschel Turret, sSSPzAbt 501, Kampfgruppe Peiper, December 1944
60004 King Tiger, Henschel Turret, sSSPzAbt 503, Berlin 1945

Finally, according to MTS, Corgi is releasing a new line of 1:64 Modern Miltary Figures, Aircraft and Vehicles
called: "Tactical Strike". Due Early February, it will include:
F-14D Tomcat
AH-64D Apache Longbow
M1A1 Abrams Tank, Standard Version, USMC
M1A1 Abrams Tank, Standard Version, US Army
AH-6J ÒLittle BirdÓ Helicopter
M2A2 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle
HMMWV M1097A2 with Pedestal Mounted .50 Caliber Machine Gun
MHHWV Avenger Missile System
US 1st Marine Division in Woodland Camouflage 6 Piece Set
US 15th Infantry, 3rd Infantry Division in Desert Camouflage 6 Piece Set

1/7/2004 Sent in by an enthusiast from France: New Solido and Verem models for 2004 - (including new paint schemes?):
"The production is rich and enthralling: it offers an important setting of typical french vehicles ( 1:50 scale ) without forgetting the great classics of the WWII. The tanks are always sold with the famous articulated tracks in metal, exclusive of the mark since 1962. The new ones are numerous, in particular the Russian T34 in two distinct versions, but also the strange Sherman launcher of rockets or many machines in service in the french army only, like the AMX Brenus MBT. List of new items :
Solido
Peugeot P4 + trailer (1:43)
Renault GBC 180
SUMB for airport
Berliet GBCKT crane
Renault TRM-2000 TA20 (1:55)
Willys + trailer with accessories (1:43)
AMX-30 D
AMX-30B2 Brenus
VAB 6x6 TA20
PZ-IV F1 Afrikakorps
Leopard 1
Verem
T34/76 (white)
T34/85 (green)
PZ-IV F1 armoured
Somua S-35 (3 colors)
SU-100 (3 colors)
Peugeot D4 (1:43)
Dodge WC63 + boat with canopy
Berliet GBC-8KT Lot-7 "Daguet"
Renault 4x4 + cooker (sand)
Sherman M4A3 Calliope +
26 models "Hachette Collections" for the french market only. " Thanks lenours

12/27/2003 As reported before (9/23/2003), Corgi has released new "2 pack" sets of their Corgi Showcase series. Each set contains two figures. As an update: although these castings have been released before (as singles and in the 4-packs), the Sherman/Tiger pair and the T-34/Panzer IV pair sport new/different paint schemes and weathering than the previous releases. I don't know about the other releases, but I suspect it is the same for them.

12/242003 Below is a picture of the Johnny Lightning Military Muscle release 4, due in March. Note the new castings for this release: Grant and Lee tanks. Thanks Dave H!

12/21/2003 I just saw the first of the 21st Century Cold Steel tanks up for sale on eBay. My guess is that the should be hitting the stores soon!

12/8/2003 A first look at the FOV 2004 new releases from Onsite Diecast! (click the link). As found on Groundpounders message board.
Corgi UK has released a new set: The British Legion Set (CSVR01004), which includes a Rolls Royce Silver Ghost, Sopwith Camel, Foden Steam Lorry , MkV Tank. At £19.99, I am assuming this set is small scale, probably like the Corgi Showcase series.

12/6/2003 According to the main Dragon website, Dragon will be releasing the Bradley Fighting vehicle in it's 1/144 Can.do Packet Army.

12/2/2003 Susumu, a collector (and regular contributor) from Japan, reports: "I got World Tank Museum 5th series the day before yesterday. The lineup are Tiger I early version, Porsche Tiger, King Tiger with Porsche turret, Jadg Tiger, Sdkfz251D (Half Track), M3 Half Track) and JSU-152(Soviet tank destroyer) And the secret item is Wittman's Tiger with five tank soldier figures including Wittman himself! The quality of World Tank Museum has been improved series by series.  
We are going to receive Dragon's Micro Armour's 7th series in the middle of December. The 7th series in Japan is Elephant.
Trumpeter, a Chinese model maker released 1/144 scale assembled and painted tank models. http://www.interallied.co.jp/00600.htm The quality of these tanks are so so. the retail price in Japan is Yen 350, about US$3. "
 " Aoshima's Panzer Division Series. Now we have four more items. These are  King Tiger with Porsche turret, 503 Heavy Tank Battalion  King Tiger with Porsche turret, 506 Heavy Tank Battalion  Sherman Firefly, British 11th Armor Division  Sherman Firefly, Poland 1st Armor Division http://www.aoshima-bk.co.jp/scripts/shouhin/aoshima.aspx?year=2003&month=12 The quality has been improved compared with the first four items."  You can visit Susumu's web site by visiting my links page. Thanks Susumu!

11/29/2003 Jim T, an fellow collector, emailed me to let me know that Dragon will release "...at least 32 Dragon Armor models between 2003 and 2004. By all indications, Dragon will produce 4 versions of each tank type such as the Tiger I, Abrams, King Tiger, Jagdpanther, Ferdinand/Elefant, Panther, Jagdtiger, and the RW61 Sturmtiger.
It appears that the Can Do Pocket Army in 1:144 scale will also have many new series being released between 2003 and 2004....". " This is what I have so far for the Can Do Pocket Army: Apollo Series, Tiger I, Panther G, Panzer III, Panzer IV, Elefant/Ferdinand, E100 Heavy Tank, 28cm K5(E) Railway Gun "Leopold", 60cm Morser "Karl" Gerat 040, Maus Heavy Tank, 54cm Morser "Karl" Great 041, and another release of the Stuka Dive Bomber." Thanks Jim T!

11/27/2003 Johnny Lightning will be releasing Military Muscle release 3 this January. Several websites are already taking pre-orders. The release will feature six vehicles, including two different versions of the Sherman:

According to Adkins Collectibles (Thanks Dave H.), at least two more releases (4 and 5) are planned.
Military Muscle Release 4 is planned to have: M3 Grant Tank (British), M3 Lee Tank (USA), Afani Humvee Truck, WWII Jeep (Army Air Corps), GMC 6x6 Truck – USAAF Yellow and German Tiger 1.
Military Muscle Release 5 set is to include: ‘60s Jeep, Humvee, Panther Tank, Dodge WC54 Military Police, FA18 Hornet and WWII Halftrack

On a different note, Dave H. also reports that Target has "...their Micro Machine 5 packs on sale for 1.99 and in the Future strike package is a WW I Renault FT 17." Thanks Dave H.

11/21/2003 Radio shack has a new RC Tiger tank in it's lineup. I've seen a picture on the Radio Shack website. Looks good. The price is $49.95

11/16/2003 Several people have written me singing the praises of the 1/72 Dragon Jadgpanther. I have to agree! Great details and MORE METAL than the Tiger. Two thumbs up! I'll have pictures up in a week or two. Hobby Link Japan has the World Tank Museum 'VS' series in stock. I bought a set and they are on my WTM page. They also have the next four Aoshima tanks in stock. I have also had several folk email me and let me know to they expect Dragon's future releases to be behind schedule. By the way....I do not endorse any vendor, nor do I get any money or price breaks....

11/4/2003 According to Hobby Link Japan, The World Tank Museum series #5 will be out in December. This issue will feature the Jagdtiger, Tiger 1, Porshce King Tiger, JSU-152, US M3A1 and Sd.Kfz. 251/1 half-tracks.

11/1/2003 The Dragon Armour website is now listing the Elephant and the Ferdinand as two seperate releases (thanks Terry). Below is the current release schedule for Dragon Armour, according to the DragonUSA website, although historically, the release dates keep sliding back.....

10/18/2003 Check your local Target. The Target in my area is carrying the Matchbox Collectibles (1/72, WWII) at clearance a price of $8.38. Several others collectors have emailed me that Targets in their area(s) are also carrying them at clearance prices.

10/15/2003 The second Johnny Lightning Military Muscle release is out. Although originally billed as all airplanes, the set also includes an M1A1 tank and a Hummer. The airplanes are at a 1:144 scale:

Card 1 - F4U-1A Corsair and a P-40E Warhawk

Card 2 -P-47D Thunderbolt Razorback and a P-51D Mustang

Card 3 -P-51D Mustang and F4U-1A Corsair

Card 4 - P-40E Warhawk and P-47D Thunderbolt Razorback

Card 5 - 1:69 Humvee with TOW missile Launcher

Card 6 - 1:100 M1A1 Abrams with mine attachment

10/4/2003 Aoshima will be soon be releasing several new tanks in its 1/72 lineup:

10/1/2003According to The Motor Pool, 21st Century will be releasing a new line of 1/32 diecast armour called "Cold Steel". The models will be a mix of metal, and plastic. The first four tanks will be: M4 Sherman, Panther Ausf. G, M24 Chaffee tank, and a Panzer III. Next spring they hope to release: M18 Hellcat, Sd. Kfz. 7, StuG III, and Tiger I

9/27/2003 Dragon will release two Abrams tanks in their Dragon Armour 1/72 diecast series in October. Number 60016 will be an M1A2 from the 4th infantry division in Iraq. Number 60015 will be an M1A1HA, USMC, 1st Marie tank Battalion, Iraq.

MSRP is $12.99 ($3.00 more than the WWII series models).

9/23/2003 Corgi Showcase will be coming out with several new combinations of vehicles, and this time the sets will also come with figures.

9/19/2003 According to The Motor Pool, Unimax plans to release the following models in the 2004 Forces of Valor lineup:

T-34/85
M-26
Hummel halftrack
Panzer IV
JagdPanther
M-113
LAV-25
M-109
LAV-25
T-72
plus additional versions of the Tiger, Stug, King Tiger, Sherman, Hummer, Bradley and M1A1. According to Michigan Toy Soldier, the repaints of the existing molds are due in February, 2004, and the new models are due April, 2004.

9/13/2003 The Aoshima tanks are now out. Nicely detail plastic models (preassembled).

8/30/2003 Corgi has a new web site: Corgi Classics. Nice site with information on their military diecast line. Includes a collectors forum and a guestbook.

8/17/2003 Several of the Forces of Valor Action Series are being marketed by Wal Mart under the MotorWorks brand. The boxes are red, with the "MotorWorks" logo. Several of the 21st Century vehicles are also sold under this same logo.

8/16/2003 More news on the World Tank Museum IRC tanks. Hobby Link Japan writes: " This series is the infra-red RC version of the famous "World Tank Museum", the 1/144 scale tank collection from Kaiyodo. Takara built in the rechargable battery and motor unit. Tank can be driven about five minutes in one charge (two minute charge). The controller/charger is made to resemble a German stick grenad(e);, each item of the series contains a different colour of controller. Tank has limited movement capability; it runs straight forward, and reverses only to the right. This is more than sufficient for a table-top runner! Amazingly, it runs on its own both rubber tracks, not by small wheels hidden beneath the body. The tanks have the improved painting and insignia representing specific vehicles seen on the WWII battlefields. Series #4 is the Jagdtiger 301 belonging to the famous "Army 512nd. Heavy Tank Battalion" which joined the attack on Remagen bridgehead in March 1945. Two UM-4/AAA/R-03 batteries are required for the charger."

8/9/2003 The Boley tanks are out. I have seen them on the Fidelis Models website. Available tanks are:
#2113    M4 Sherman, Green
#2133    M4 Sherman, Camouflage
#2114    M36 Tank Destroyer, Green
#2134    M36 Tank Destroyer, Camouflage
#2115    Tiger Tank, Camouflage
#2116    Tiger Tank, Gray
#2131    Tiger Tank, Camouflage
#2117    Panther Tank, Gray
#2129    Panther Tank, Camouflage
#2132    Panther Tank, Green
#2118    Jagdpanther, Gray
#2119    Jagdpanther, Camouflage
#2130    Jagdpanther, Green
#2135    M5 Stuart Light Tank, Green
#2136    M5 Stuart Light Tank, Camouflage
Matchbox:
Matchbox has also released the Heroes collection for 2003. The collection consists of an M1A2 Abrams, Chevrolet Blazer, Bradley M3 fighting vehicle, LVTP7A1 Amphibious personnel carrier, Willys Jeep, Armored response vehicle, Missile launcher, and Radar truck

8/1/2003 News from Japan! My friend Susumu reports:WORLD TANK MUSEUM IRC: Takara has released World Tank Museum IRC recently. This is 1/144 scale infra red remote control tanks! King Tiger, Henschel turret, Kampfgruppe Peiper; King Tiger, Henschel turret, SS101 Heavy Tank Battalion; King Tiger, Porsche turret, 503 Heavy Tank Battalion; Jagd Tiger, 512 Panzer Jager Battalion .
WORLD TANK MUSEUM DUEL SET
This is a kind of resale of previous series of theWTM set. But some tanks will be produced by using a new mold. Two tanks will be sold in one package. That's why they are named as "Duel Set". Tiger I vs Sherman firefly,King Tiger vs Js-2m, Pzkpfw IV type H vs T-34/85, Elephant vs KV-1, Panther vs M4A1 Sherman. This time, no blind box! They will be released in August or later.
WORLD TANK MUSEUM SERIES 5
They announced the line up of Series 5 recently. VK4501(P) Porsche Tiger King Tiger with Porsche turret, Jagd Tiger Tiger I early version, JSU-152, M3A1 halftrack,Sdkfz251/1 halftrack.They are scheduled to release it around the end of year 2003.
GROUND ARMOR COLLECTION
Trumpeter, a Chinese plastic model kit company will release 1/144 AFVs through WAVE Company in Japan. The first lot consists of Sdkfz251/1 hal ftrack and its variants Sdkfz251/9 with 7.5cm howitzer, Sdkfz251/22 wi th 7.5cm anti tank gun. Originally they are scheduled to release in Ju ly. But it was postponed in August or later. THANKS Susumu!

7/17/2003 Sometimes the best tanks aren't the biggest or most expensive. I got my first Johnny Lightning Military Muscle WWII tanks. As I noted before, the first installment includes a Sherman tank, Sherman with hedgerow cutter, Tiger tank, Panther tank, Kubelwagen, and Jeep. These tanks are AWESOME. Well done, heavy diecast with good detail for only $2.99 (Hobby Lobby) or $4.99 (KB Toys). Each also comes with a collectors card. I'll have pictures up in a week or two....meanwhile, here is a teaser
p.s. the pictures really don't do these tanks justice...

7/3/2004 The first of the Corgi WWII Collection Panthers has hit the shelves. Mine should arrive any day now!

6/24/2003 Forces of Valor versions explained:
1. Enthusiast version. Top of the line. This will be available to the hobby shops and online stores.. The differences will be a more detailed paint job (more weathered look), more accessories, display tray, wire whip antennas, different package, as compared to the Action series.
2. Action series. Mass market edition. Differences as noted above. There will be a figure included, some accessories, and will only be sold to mass market retailers. A black 'wash' is applied, but it lacks the subtle weathering of the Enthusiast version.
3. Dioramas (13 total, no planes and no helicopters). This will include the Enthusiast version vehicle and will only in hobby shops and online stores. Modified from Groundpounders FOV message board, post by FOV.

6/19/2003 Johnny Lightning has just released a new series: Military Muscle WWII. The first installment includes a Sherman tank, Sherman with hedgerow cutter, Tiger tank, Panther tank, Kubelwagen, and Jeep. Release 2 will be a WWII 6 airplane set and is due in August. There is a Release 3 scheduled, but I have no info on what will be in that release.Thanks Steve B.

6/16/2003 Received my first Forces of Valor item: the Willys Jeep. Very nice detail with a lot of extras (figre, gas cans, etc.). KB has notified me that the rest of the line has shipped, including the WWII tanks! I let you know more as I get them. I have also ordered some of the "collectors" tanks (weathering, etc.) from other sources...I'll let you know the differences...

6/10/2003 Boley, manufacturer of toys and plastic 1/87 vehicles, will release several WWII vintage tanks this summer, including: Tiger, JagdPanther, Panther, Sherman, Stuart, and M36 tank destroyer. The tanks will be made in more than one color scheme. Release date: June 2003

5/31/2003 World Tank Museum will release 4 IRC (infrared remote control) tanks in July. Three models will be King Tigers, one will be a Jagdtiger. WTM has added a set of computer "wallpapers", available for download, from its website.

5/25/2003 The first Forces of Valor tank has shown up on eBay from The Motor Pool. Generally new items like this show up on eBay a week or so before the start appearing on the merchants shelves/web sites. Supposedly the Humvee, the Bradley and the Abrams will be the first to ship. The rest of the items in the range are scheduled to ship around the middle of June.

5/24/2003 "Big news from Tamiya Inc. As you many know Tamiya is famous (for) its scale models kit. In 42nd Shizuoka Hobby Show 2003, they announced launching of new Master Work Collection! Master Work Collection is 1/35 scale assembled and painted plastic tank models with metal barrel and track. The first lot consists of Tiger 1 early version, Panther G late version, Mark III assault gun type G early version, Mark IV type H, T-55A. The retail price will be Yen 18,000.(about $150). They will be released in 20th July." From Susumu in Japan. THANKS!

5/24/2003 The Dragon Pocket Army Series 5 (Jagd Tiger) will be released early in June. A special item will be Berge Tiger tank recovery tank base on the Tiger body. Dragon Armour (1/72 scale diecast models) will be released middle of May. Takara/Kaiyodo World Tank Museum Pre-Series 4 will be released 26th May. Series 4 will be released 23rd June. Thanks Susumu

4/29/2003 Michigan Toy Soldier Company (www.michtoy.com) reports that "Forces of Valor Update: The Abrams, Humvee and Bradley will be available the first or second week of June.  The rest of the line will be available by the end of June."

4/20/2003 Aoshima (a Japanese model manufacturer) will be releasing a new line of fully assembled and painted 1/72 scale tanks. The first four releases will be: King Tiger 503 Heavy Tank Battalion, King Tiger 501 Heavy Tank Battalion, M4 Sherman 701 Battalion, M4 Sherman 3rd Armored Division. They are set for a July release and the price will be under $10.00! Thanks Susumu

4/13/2003 The Dragon 1/144 Jagdpanthers have been released in the far East. They can be found on eBay (if you don't want to endure the slow wait for them to make it to US distributors)

4/6/2003 Dragon 1/144 will be sold in the US starting in May. Price will be $3.99 and they will come in a small plastic case.Thanks Susumu

4/1/2003 Dragon has published more on the 1:72 diecast tanks they will be producing. The first two are the Tiger releases. They are due out in May of 2003. The rest of the lineup is as follows:

They have also update their website with more information: DragonArmor

3/31/2003 A new line of 1:32 tanks, vehicles, figures, and dioramas is being released from Forces of Valor. Prices will range from $20-$40 for tanks, and $36-$72 for dioramas. This line will offer realistic accessories (gas cans, bedrolls, etc.) and, if the pictures on the website are any indication, great paint and weathering. The lineup will include:
WWII:  US Willys Jeep, US M16 Motor Carriage, British Infantry Tank Mk.II (Mathilda), German Schwimmwagen, German Sturmgeshutz III Tank, German Tiger I Tank, German King Tiger Tank DESERT STORM: US M1036 Humvee, US M2A2 Bradley Fighting Vehicle, US M1A1 Abrams Tank, US Marine M60A1 Patton Tank.Thanks Andy

3/30/2003 World Tank Museum with release the 4th series in June. It will feature tanks of the Japanese Self Defense Force: Type 61, Tank Type 74, Tank Type 90, Tank Type 87 Self-propelled Anti-aircraft Gun, Type 60 Self-propelled Recoilless Gun, AH-1 Anti-tank Helicopter (Cobra) +Secret Item. A pre-4th series will be released before the actual release. It will feaure: Type 74 Tank with Dozer Blade, Type 90 Tank with soldier figure mAH-1S Cobra US Army version.
Dragon has announced the release of the next sets in the Can.DO pocket army (1:144) series: 4th Jagd Panther; 5th Jagd Tiger; 6th Elefant, Berge Tiger, VK4501; 7th Pzkpfw III type E, F, G, H, Command tank, Submarine tank; 8th Pzkpfw IV type D, F1, F2, G; 9th Stuka (dive bomber). Thanks Susumu

3/15/2003 Dragon will release the Jagdpanther Pocket armour April 17th. The next release (after the Jagdpanther) will be the Jagdtiger. Thanks Susumu

3/11/2003 Dragon Models plans to release 1/72 DIECAST tank models: DragonArmor. The initial models are of WWII German vintage. Price tentatively set at $9.99 US. Thanks GI Gene!

3/2003 Just recieved several of the Dragon/Doyusha1/144 plastic tanks: the Can.Do Pocket Army. These tanks are preassembled, painted and weathered. The detail is nice. Dragon has released 3 series so far: Tiger, Panther, and King Tiger. They plan to release the Jagdpanther next. Each series has six tanks, and one "special" tank. I purchased mine through eBay.

2/2003 Corgi will be introducing a complete lineup of WWII tanks this year: the WWII Collection. These 1:50 tanks promise to have great details, paint, and weathering. Prices will range from $32-$40 US. See my Corgi page for details and tentative release dates.