This release sees the introduction of some new models to expand our range of Italians. Firstly, the Bersaglieri have arrived with an Officer and 11 strong squad of these elite marksman here to help save the day. Next, a short range (and very unwelcome in he desert!) burst of heat from the flamethrower team and finally the enemy will be pounded into submission from a distance by the Cannone 149/40 heavy howitzer, as the Cannone 75/46 heavy AA gun keeps the aircraft off the rest of the army.
Also released are two updated units to replace existing models – the forward observer and standard rifle squad are now available with updated models.
As always, here’s a little background on the various new units…..
Bersaglieri Officer and squad
The Bersaglieri of the Regio Esercito were highly trained elite Italian soldiers that saw action in all the theatres the Italian army was present in. Selected from the best recruits, the Bersaglieri tended above average height and stamina for soldiers, and all had to qualify as trained marksmen.
The unit consists of 1 NCO w/SMG, 7 riflemen and 2 LMG soldiers.
Flamethrower team
Armed with the Lanciafiamme Spalleggiabile 40, an Italian flamethrower team was a feared sight on any battlefield it appeared. Despite having a shorter range than some of its contemporaries, that is little comfort when one is advancing on your foxhole.
This model is supplied as a team of two.
Cannone 149/40 heavy howitzer
The “Cannone da 149/40 modello 35 was an Italian heavy artillery piece of WWII. Used between 1940-45, it was an unusual, but good, design that utilised the fixing of the trail spade plates to the ground in order to stabilise the gun when firing.
This model is supplied with a crew of 5 and one spotter.
Italian 75/46 heavy AA
A 1930s designed AA gun, the “Cannone da 75/46 C.A. modello 34” was a solid and serviceable AA gun that saw action across all Italian theatres of war and was also fitted to the Semovente da 75/46 SPG. As with the German Flak36, the barrel could be depressed enough that it would also function acceptably in an anti-tank role. However, it lacked a sufficient time-delay fuse that would allow for indirect fire capability.
This model is supplied with a crew of 4.
Further updates are also available via our Facebook page.
Hopefully you found this bit of background history interesting and our models will be reinforcing your Italian armies.