1:35 IDF Shot Kal 1973 - AFV CLUB

The Sho’t tank saw extensive service with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) during both the Six-Day War in 1967 and the Yom Kippur War in 1973. One notable vehicle, a Sho’t Kal Alef from the 188th Armored Brigade, was famously commanded by Captain Zvika Greengold, who became one of Israel’s most renowned tank aces. However, like all Israeli tanks in the early days of the 1973 conflict, the Sho’t proved highly vulnerable to Soviet-made anti-tank weapons such as the RPG-2, RPG-7, and the AT-3 Sagger wire-guided missile. These weapons were fielded in large numbers by Egyptian forces during their assault across the Bar Lev Line, inflicting heavy losses on Israeli armor. It is estimated that the IDF lost up to 40% of its southern armored forces within the first two days of the war. This vulnerability underscored the critical importance of integrated infantry support for armored units and ultimately influenced the design philosophy of the Merkava main battle tank, which incorporated a rear troop compartment to enhance battlefield flexibility and crew survivability.

THE KIT:

• New diesel engine version parts set
• Newly tooled Israel Defense Forces–specific components
• Movable suspension
• Clear parts for vision blocks and periscopes system
• Rubber tires
• Includes precision photo-etched parts