IS-2 Soviet Heavy Tank
The IS-2 was one of the Soviet Union’s most formidable heavy tanks of World War II. Introduced during the conflict’s later stages, it combined substantial armour with a powerful 122 mm gun, giving Red Army formations a hard-hitting vehicle for major offensives on the Eastern Front and the advance into Central Europe.
Historical Role
Designed primarily as a breakthrough heavy tank, the IS-2 supported assaults against fortified positions, anti-tank defences and strongly held urban areas. Its 122 mm D-25T gun could deliver a devastating high-explosive shell against bunkers and buildings while also posing a serious threat to enemy armour. IS-2 units were commonly organised into specialised Guards heavy tank regiments supporting key Soviet operations.
Distinctive Appearance
The IS-2 is immediately recognisable by its long 122 mm gun with prominent muzzle brake, rounded cast turret and broad tracks. Its compact, heavily armoured silhouette contrasts with the considerable size of its main armament. Sloping hull surfaces, a substantial turret bustle and robust running gear give the vehicle the powerful stance associated with late-war Soviet heavy armour.
Variant Differences
The IS-2 developed from the earlier IS-1 heavy tank, retaining the same general chassis concept while replacing the IS-1’s 85 mm gun with the much larger 122 mm D-25T. The turret interior and ammunition arrangements were adapted for the larger weapon and its separate-loading ammunition. For modellers, the long barrel and muzzle brake are the clearest visual distinctions. The change provided greater firepower against fortifications and heavily armoured battlefield targets.
Modelling Uses
This detailed IS-2 is ideal for Eastern Front and late-war dioramas, military-themed model railways, wargaming displays and collectors of Soviet armoured vehicles. It can represent breakthrough operations, urban fighting, advancing Guards formations or a vehicle awaiting maintenance and resupply.
Fun Fact
The initials “IS” honoured Soviet leader Iosif Stalin. The tank was also known as the JS-2 in older Western-language references because of differing transliteration conventions.
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.
