SU-5-1 76.2mm T-26 SPG
Bring an unusual chapter of Soviet armoured development to your collection with the SU-5-1 76.2mm T-26 self-propelled gun. Built around the familiar T-26 light tank chassis, this experimental design explored how mobile artillery could accompany Red Army mechanised formations. It carries the RARE VARIANT badge because the SU-5-1 was an experimental self-propelled gun rather than a standard T-26 production type.
Historical Role
The SU-5-1 was conceived to provide mobile direct and indirect fire support using a 76.2mm divisional gun. Its tracked chassis offered greater mobility than conventional towed artillery, allowing the weapon to move with armoured and mechanised units. Developed during the Soviet Union’s pre-war experimentation with self-propelled artillery, it represents an important step toward the more specialised Soviet assault guns and mobile artillery vehicles associated with the Second World War.
Distinctive Appearance
The vehicle combines the compact running gear and riveted character of the T-26 with a prominent open fighting position for the artillery piece. Its exposed gun mounting, angular protective panels and low tracked chassis create a striking silhouette that is immediately different from the turreted T-26 tank. The visible artillery layout also offers excellent opportunities for detailed painting, weathering and crew-focused scenes.
Variant Differences
Developed from the T-26 light tank, the SU-5-1 replaced the base vehicle’s enclosed turret and tank armament with an open-mounted 76.2mm divisional gun. Its internal arrangement was adapted to support the larger weapon and rear fighting area. These changes produced its most recognisable modelling features: an exposed gun, open crew position and artillery-focused superstructure. The variant existed to test a mobile fire-support solution on an established Soviet chassis.
Modelling Uses
Ideal for Soviet experimental vehicle collections, workshop or proving-ground dioramas, model railways, wargaming displays and specialist collectors. It also makes an excellent companion to standard T-26 tanks, highlighting the variety of vehicles developed from the same chassis.
Fun Fact
The SU-5-1 formed part of a wider Soviet effort to test different artillery weapons on a common T-26-based platform.
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.
