Military Model Scene

Title: Panzer III, North Africa, Tripoli to El Alamein 1941-42
Author: Dennis Oliver
Publisher: Pen & Sword
ISBN: 978-1-39901-800-5

Number 36 in the excellent TankCraft series from Pen & Sword, and another from author Dennis Oliver. A 64-page soft-cover book in the now standard format for this series. Not the first on the topic of the Pz III, but this focuses on the Ausf G, H and J versions, with some mention of even later types, which were used by the units of the Afrika Korps in North Africa during the period 1941-42.
The first 16 pages set the historical scene, from the introduction through changes in structure of the German Army in North Africa, a chronology of significant events, and then individual unit histories. This is followed by 10 pages of first-class colour profile artwork which I am certain modellers will really enjoy. The Model Showcase is just a little bit different in that the 4 beautiful models feature an old 1/30th scale Nichimo kit and the other 3 are all 1/48. These are followed by another 8 pages of Model Products, listing the variety of suitable kits and aftermarket accessories that are available. The final part of the book, pages 49 to 63 return us to the real thing, explaining the technical details and modifications that will assist in identifying the assorted variants and some detailed unit structure diagrams.
As ever, well illustrated throughout, with plenty of good clear archive images, coupled with some beautifully built models on display and accompanied by the appropriate history of the Panzer III in North Africa during 1941/2, this is once again a nicely balanced book mixing history and models that will be of interest to many modellers.
Thanks to Pen & Sword for the review copy.

Robin