KV-8S Soviet Flamethrower Heavy Tank
The KV-8S was a specialised Soviet assault tank of the Second World War, combining the more mobile KV-1S chassis with a dedicated flamethrower armament installation. This detailed model captures an unusual member of the Red Army’s KV heavy tank family and carries the SPECIAL WEAPONS badge because of its purpose-built flamethrower fit.
Historical Role
Developed for close-support operations on the Eastern Front, the KV-8S was intended to attack fortified positions, trenches and defended strongpoints. Its flamethrower could suppress or dislodge enemy infantry at close range, while armour and conventional armament allowed it to accompany Soviet assault formations in hazardous battlefield conditions.
Distinctive Appearance
The vehicle combines the recognisable KV-1S hull, heavy suspension and broad tracks with a turret configured for specialist flame-projecting equipment. Its compact gun arrangement, substantial turret profile and fittings associated with the flamethrower system distinguish it from a standard KV-1S, while retaining the imposing stance of the Soviet KV series.
Variant Differences
The KV-8S developed from the KV-1S chassis rather than being a completely separate tank design. Its principal difference was the replacement of the standard heavy-tank armament layout with a dedicated flamethrower installation and a smaller 45 mm gun. The altered turret armament is the key visible modelling difference, reflecting the variant’s specialised close-assault role.
Modelling Uses
Ideal for Eastern Front dioramas, armoured columns, urban assault scenes and fortified battlefield settings, the KV-8S adds a distinctive specialist vehicle to any collection. The smaller scales suit model railways and compact wargaming displays, while the larger sizes provide greater presence and detail for painters, military modellers and collectors.
Fun Fact
The KV flamethrower family used a sleeve around its smaller gun barrel to create the appearance of a standard 76.2 mm tank gun, making the specialist vehicle less immediately obvious at a distance.
Available Scales
Available in 1:87, 1:76, 1:72, 1:48 and 1:35 scales.
Finish Options
Choose from Cleaned Resin Grey, Grey Primed - Ready for Painting, or Historical Base Colour.
Very small details may vary slightly depending on the scale selected.
