Early IS-2 Development with 122 mm Main Gun
The IS-122 was the early designation associated with the 122 mm-armed Soviet heavy tank that became famous as the IS-2. Combining strong armour, improved mobility and an exceptionally powerful gun, it was created to destroy fortifications and confront the latest German tanks.
This model represents the early IS-122 development configuration, featuring a large rounded turret, six-road-wheel suspension, external fuel tanks and the long 122 mm main gun. Its imposing appearance makes it an outstanding centrepiece for late-war Soviet collections, railway-loading scenes and heavy breakthrough formations.
The Story Behind the Tank
An IS-122 sits chained to a railway wagon as workers prepare it for transport to the front. Timber blocks have been placed beneath the tracks, and every chain is checked before the locomotive begins its journey.
The commander waits in the open hatch, surrounded by smoke, steam and hurried activity. His new tank carries one of the most powerful guns mounted in a Soviet turret, but few crews have yet seen one.
The IS-122 is travelling toward a battlefield increasingly dominated by Panthers, Tigers and fortified positions. Its job will be simple to describe but dangerous to perform: break through and destroy whatever stands in the way.
Historical Background
The original IS-1 heavy tank carried an 85 mm gun, but Soviet battlefield experience showed the need for a weapon with greater armour penetration and high-explosive power.
Engineers adapted the 122 mm A-19 field gun into the D-25T tank gun and installed it in the new IS chassis. The prototype, known as Object 240, was accepted under the IS-122 designation before becoming widely known as the IS-2.
The gun fired a massive two-part round consisting of a projectile and separate propellant charge. This reduced the rate of fire and limited ammunition capacity, but its armour-piercing and high-explosive shells delivered tremendous destructive power.
The IS-122 was intended primarily as a breakthrough tank. Its heavy gun was effective against bunkers, buildings, anti-tank positions and enemy armour. Later IS-2 production introduced an improved hull front and other refinements.
Perfect for Dioramas Featuring
Soviet railway transport operations
Late-war heavy-tank formations
Factory delivery and inspection scenes
Breakthrough attacks against fortifications
Urban battles and ruined buildings
Encounters with German heavy armour
Ammunition-loading scenes
Refuelling and field maintenance
Winter offensives and snow camouflage
Tank crews preparing for deployment
Interesting Fact
A 122 mm projectile weighed approximately 25 kilograms and had to be loaded separately from its propellant charge. The rate of fire was slower than smaller tank guns, but every successful hit delivered enormous force.
Fun Fact
The IS-122’s loader did not need a separate fitness program—lifting 25-kilogram shells inside a cramped turret provided the workout!
Model Features
Early IS-122/IS-2 development configuration
Large rounded cast-style turret
Long 122 mm main gun
Commander’s cupola and turret fittings
Six large road wheels on each side
Wide tracks and torsion-bar suspension
Detailed engine deck and hull fittings
External cylindrical fuel tanks
Ideal for railway or battlefield dioramas
Detailed resin scale model
Made in Australia
Available Scales
1:87 – HO: Model railways and compact scenes
1:76 – OO: Railway layouts and military collections
1:72: Small-scale military displays
1:48: Detailed tabletop and diorama scenes
1:35: Large, highly detailed displays
Custom scaling available on request
Choose Your Finish
Unpainted and CleanedSupplied in natural grey resin, cleaned and ready for final preparation, priming and painting.
Grey PrimedSupplied with an even grey primer coat, providing a clean surface ready for your chosen colours and weathering.
Soviet Base ColourSupplied with a Soviet military-green base coat. Complete the tracks, tools and markings before adding mud, dust, snow and paint wear.
Painting and Weathering Ideas
Finish the tank in Soviet military green with dark steel tracks and polished wear across the raised track surfaces. Add mud around the suspension, fuel stains below the external tanks and dust across the turret and engine deck.
For a railway scene, add chains, timber wheel blocks and transport markings. For combat service, use bold turret numbers, Guards insignia or a hand-painted Soviet slogan.
Please Note
This model represents an early IS-122/IS-2 development configuration. Minor details varied during testing and early production.
This detailed resin model is intended for adult collectors and diorama builders. Figures, railway wagons, scenery, decals and accessories shown in promotional scenes are not included unless specifically listed in the selected product package.
