Matilda II Mk IV (A12)
Bring one of Britain’s most recognisable World War II infantry tanks to your collection with this detailed Matilda II Mk IV (A12) model. Designed to accompany infantry through heavily defended positions, the Matilda combined substantial armour with a compact, purposeful profile. It is an excellent subject for British Expeditionary Force, North African and early-war display settings.
Historical Role
The Matilda II served as a heavily armoured infantry tank, using protection and steady cross-country movement to support troops during assaults. Armed primarily with the QF 2-pounder gun and a coaxial Besa machine gun, the Mk IV was effective against many early-war armoured vehicles. It saw notable service in France, North Africa and later campaigns, although its limited speed and lack of an effective high-explosive shell for the 2-pounder increasingly restricted its usefulness.
Distinctive Appearance
The vehicle is instantly identifiable by its compact cast turret, tall slab-sided hull and long armoured side skirts. Characteristic mud chutes break up the side armour, while the closely enclosed suspension and narrow exposed track runs create a particularly solid appearance. The small turret and projecting 2-pounder barrel contrast with the substantial hull, giving the Matilda its unmistakable silhouette.
Variant Differences
The Mk IV developed from earlier Matilda II marks and retained the standard 2-pounder and Besa armament. Its principal changes concerned improvements to the twin Leyland diesel installation and more rigid engine mountings rather than a major redesign. External differences were subtle, with detail changes such as the omission of the turret lamp helping distinguish it from some earlier versions; its purpose was to refine reliability while preserving the proven infantry-tank layout.
Modelling Uses
Ideal for desert dioramas, British Army scenes, model railways, wargaming displays and collectors, this model can represent anything from a clean vehicle awaiting markings to a weathered tank operating in sand, dust or mud.
Fun Fact
The Matilda II earned the nickname “Queen of the Desert” after its heavy armour proved extremely difficult for many Italian anti-tank weapons to defeat during early fighting in North Africa.
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.
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