Valentine Mk II
Recreate one of Britain’s best-known infantry tanks of the Second World War with this detailed Valentine Mk II model. Compact, heavily armoured for its size and valued for its mechanical reliability, the Valentine became an important British and Commonwealth fighting vehicle, particularly during the demanding campaigns in North Africa.
Historical Role
The Valentine Mk II was designed as an infantry tank, advancing alongside foot soldiers and providing direct fire support against defensive positions and enemy vehicles. Its principal armament was the British 2-pounder gun, mounted in a two-man turret with a coaxial Besa machine gun. Although its modest speed suited infantry cooperation, the Valentine’s armour and dependable running gear helped it remain useful in front-line service. As enemy armour became more powerful, later Valentine marks introduced revised turrets and heavier weapons.
Distinctive Appearance
The Mk II is instantly recognisable by its low silhouette, compact turret and sharply angled, riveted hull. Prominent track guards run above the exposed tracks, while the characteristic suspension uses paired road wheels arranged in compact bogie units. The narrow turret, angular front plates and external fittings give the vehicle a purposeful early-war British appearance.
Variant Differences
Developed from the Valentine Mk I, the Mk II replaced the earlier petrol engine with an AEC diesel engine to improve operational reliability and economy. It retained the original two-man turret and 2-pounder armament, while an auxiliary external fuel tank increased range. For modellers, this fuel installation and associated rear-deck details are among the most useful visual distinctions from the Mk I.
Modelling Uses
This model is ideal for North African campaign dioramas, British Army scenes, military model railways, tabletop wargaming displays and collectors of Second World War armoured vehicles. Its wide range of scales makes it suitable for everything from compact railway layouts to highly detailed display pieces.
Fun Fact
The origin of the Valentine name remains uncertain. It is often linked to Valentine’s Day, although alternative explanations connect it with the manufacturer Vickers or tank designer Sir John Valentine Carden.
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.
