BT-2 D-38 – RARE VARIANT
The BT-2 D-38 represents an unusual Soviet experimental development of the fast BT tank family. Combining the recognisable BT-2 chassis with a distinctive armament and turret concept, this model offers collectors and modellers a less familiar subject from the period preceding the Red Army’s World War II armoured operations.
Historical Role
The standard BT-2 was designed as a fast cavalry tank, intended to exploit breakthroughs, conduct reconnaissance and operate across open terrain at speed. The D-38 development explored whether the BT-2 platform could carry heavier artillery armament, giving it a potential close-support role against field positions and other battlefield targets. It belongs to the wider Soviet search for more effective tank firepower during the early development of Red Army mechanised forces.
Distinctive Appearance
The vehicle retains the BT-2’s compact hull, prominent large road wheels and characteristic fast-tank proportions. Its defining feature is the enlarged experimental turret and more substantial gun installation, which create a noticeably heavier upper profile than the familiar light-turreted BT-2. This contrast between the slim, mobile chassis and imposing turret makes the D-38 especially distinctive in a Soviet vehicle collection.
Variant Differences
Developed from the better-known BT-2, the D-38 retained the base vehicle’s chassis and running gear while concentrating its changes on the turret and armament. The design investigated a larger turret associated with a 76.2 mm gun installation rather than the BT-2’s usual lighter armament. These visible differences reflected an effort to adapt a fast tank into a more heavily armed support vehicle.
Modelling Uses
Its uncommon silhouette makes the BT-2 D-38 ideal for experimental Soviet armour collections, vehicle comparison displays and early Red Army scenes. It is equally suitable for dioramas, model railways, wargaming displays and collectors seeking an unusual companion to standard BT-series tanks. The RARE VARIANT badge highlights its unusual experimental armament and turret development within the BT-2 family.
Fun Fact
The BT family used a convertible running system that allowed tanks to travel on tracks or, under suitable conditions, on their road wheels after the tracks were removed—an ambitious feature associated with their emphasis on speed.
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.
