Black Prince (A43) – PROTOTYPE
Recreate one of Britain’s most imposing experimental armoured vehicles with this detailed Black Prince (A43) model. Developed during the closing stages of the Second World War, the A43 combined the established infantry-tank concept with substantially greater firepower. It carries the PROTOTYPE badge because the Black Prince remained an experimental heavy infantry tank, with only a handful of prototypes built.
Historical Role
The Black Prince was intended to support British infantry by crossing difficult ground, resisting enemy fire and engaging heavily armoured targets. Its 17-pounder gun offered the anti-tank capability needed to confront increasingly well-protected German vehicles. Although conceived for a battlefield role similar to that of the Churchill, the design arrived as British armoured development was moving towards more versatile universal and cruiser-tank concepts.
Distinctive Appearance
The A43 is immediately recognisable by its long, slab-sided hull, broad tracks and prominent suspension arrangement. A widened hull supports the larger turret, while the long 17-pounder barrel gives the vehicle a powerful, front-heavy profile. Heavy armour, angular turret surfaces and Churchill-style side track runs create a striking silhouette ideal for a late-war British collection.
Variant Differences
The Black Prince was developed from the Churchill infantry tank rather than created as a completely separate design. Its hull was widened to accommodate a larger turret and turret ring for the 17-pounder gun, while broader tracks helped support the increased width and weight. For modellers, the enlarged turret, wider stance and longer main gun are the clearest differences. The variant existed to combine Churchill-derived infantry support qualities with stronger anti-armour firepower.
Modelling Uses
This model is well suited to prototype evaluation scenes, factory or proving-ground dioramas, British military model railways, historically themed wargaming displays and collectors of unusual Second World War armour. Smaller scales suit railway layouts and formation displays, while larger scales provide more room for painting, weathering and fine-detail work.
Fun Fact
The name “Black Prince” refers to Edward of Woodstock, the celebrated 14th-century English military commander commonly known by that title.
Available Scales
1:87, 1:76, 1:72, 1:48 and 1:35.
Finish Options
Cleaned Resin Grey, Grey Primed - Ready for Painting, and Historical Base Colour.
Very small details may vary slightly depending on the scale selected.
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