Panzer III Ausf. L ; Schwere Panzer-Abteilung 501 (s.Pz.Abt. 501) (21st Century Toys, 1/32)

Back in late 1942, this Panzer III Ausf. L, identified by turret number 23, was deployed to the rugged landscapes of Tunisia with the Schwere Panzer-Abteilung 501. As part of the light company attached to this heavy battalion, its primary role was to support the newly arrived Tiger I tanks of the German Africa Corps. While the Tigers provided the heavy punch, this medium tank worked the flanks and handled threats that didn't require the massive firepower of the heavy tanks, operating in a critical support capacity during the intense fighting that characterized the end of the North African campaign.

Visually, this tank wore the tropical Gelbbraun sand camouflage and the small green diamond insignia specific to the 501st's light company. The Ausf. L variant represented a step up in capability, most notably mounting the long-barreled 5cm KwK 39 L/60 gun for improved velocity and penetration. To increase survivability, it was fitted with 'Vorpanzer' spaced armor on the turret mantle and superstructure front, a practical modification designed to detonate incoming rounds before they hit the main armor plate.