MiniArt 1/35 T-34/85 Composite Turret 112 Plant. Summer 1944 # 35306

The T-34/85 Composite Turret from Plant 112, Summer 1944 is a variant of the iconic Soviet T-34 tank, featuring an upgraded turret design produced at the Krasnoye Sormovo Factory No. 112.

This model was a significant evolution of the T-34 series, incorporating a larger and more powerful turret to house the improved 85mm main gun, providing enhanced firepower and protection for Soviet armored forces during World War II.

Key Features

Composite Turret Design:
The T-34/85 Composite Turret was an interim solution that combined elements of cast and welded turret designs. This approach allowed for a quicker production turnaround while maintaining structural integrity.
Distinctive Features: The turret was characterized by its combination of cast and welded sections, resulting in a unique appearance. The front and sides of the turret were typically welded, while the top was often cast.
The turret featured a large, bulbous shape to accommodate the larger gun breech and to provide more space for the crew.

Armament:
Main Gun: Equipped with the 85mm ZiS-S-53 gun, which was a substantial improvement over the previous 76.2mm gun. This allowed the T-34/85 to effectively engage German heavy tanks such as the Tiger and Panther.
Secondary Armament: Mounted with two 7.62mm DT machine guns, one coaxial with the main gun and another in the hull.

Armor and Protection:
The turret’s armor thickness varied, with up to 90mm of frontal armor and 75mm on the sides, providing improved protection against enemy anti-tank weapons.

Mobility:
Engine: Powered by a V-2-34 diesel engine, generating 500 horsepower.
Speed and Range: Capable of reaching speeds of up to 55 km/h (34 mph) on roads, with an operational range of approximately 300 km (186 miles).

Production and Deployment
Production: The T-34/85 Composite Turret was produced at the Krasnoye Sormovo Factory No. 112 during the summer of 1944, marking a critical period of Soviet tank production.
Deployment: These tanks were quickly deployed to the front lines and played a vital role in the Red Army’s push into Eastern Europe and Germany. Their combination of firepower, armor, and mobility made them a formidable opponent against German armor.

Historical Significance
The T-34/85 Composite Turret from Plant 112 was an essential component of the Soviet Union’s armored forces during the final stages of World War II.

Its improved armament and turret design provided the Red Army with a more capable tank, contributing to the successful offensive operations against Axis forces.

This variant symbolizes the continuous evolution of the T-34 series and the Soviet commitment to producing effective and versatile armored vehicles.