The Marder II was a German self-propelled anti-tank gun developed to give frontline units greater mobility and heavier anti-tank firepower than towed guns could provide.
Built on the chassis of the Panzer II, the Sd.Kfz. 131 mounted the powerful 7.5 cm PaK 40/2 anti-tank gun in a tall, open-topped fighting compartment. It traded heavy armour for mobility and firepower, allowing crews to move quickly, take up firing positions and engage enemy armour before relocating.
Its open fighting compartment, prominent gun and distinctive Panzer II running gear make the Marder II an excellent model for Eastern Front, Normandy and late-war European dioramas.
The Story Behind the Vehicle
By 1942, German forces were increasingly encountering enemy tanks that were difficult to defeat with older anti-tank weapons. One quick solution was to combine existing tank chassis with more powerful guns.
The Marder II was one of these improvised but effective tank destroyers. Rather than designing an entirely new vehicle, Germany used available Panzer II chassis and fitted them with the proven PaK 40.
This created a vehicle with strong anti-tank capability, although its high profile and relatively thin armour meant crews depended heavily on good positioning and concealment.
Included in This Model
1 x Marder II Sd.Kfz. 131
7.5 cm PaK 40/2 main gun
Open fighting compartment
Detailed Panzer II suspension and tracks
External tools and stowage
Armoured crew compartment
Detailed engine deck and front hull fittings
Fun Fact
The Marder II was never intended to fight like a conventional tank. Its armour was too light for that.
Instead, crews were expected to use ambush positions, distance and concealment, taking advantage of the long-range punch of the PaK 40 before moving again.
Available Scales
1:87 HO • 1:76 OO • 1:72 • 1:48 • 1:35 • Custom Scale
Finish Options
Unpainted Cleaned Resin – supplied cleaned and ready for painting.
Grey Primed – supplied with an even primer coat ready for detailing.
Basic Colour – supplied in an appropriate German WWII base colour such as Dunkelgelb, ready for camouflage, markings and weathering.
Perfect for: German tank destroyer units, Eastern Front scenes, Normandy dioramas, ruined villages, defensive positions, railway layouts and WWII armoured collections.
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