Military Model Scene

Title: TankCraft 40, Panzer III North Africa
Author: Dennis Oliver
Publisher: Pen & Sword
ISBN: 978-1-39906-512-2

We have reached number 40 in the TankCraft series from publisher Pen & Sword, and it is another from author Dennis Oliver. This one picks up from where number 36 left off, and looks in detail at the involvement of the Panzer III after the El Alamein through to the end of the Africa Korps in Tunisia in 1943. A 64-page soft-cover book in the now established pattern for this series.
The introduction sets the scene, and includes an acknowledgement that there is a little necessary overlap between this and the earlier title. After a Chronological table it moves on to 10 pages giving the individual histories of the various Pz III equipped units that operated them in the period of 1942-1943. These include the 2 Schwerer-Panzer Abteilungs, where the Tiger Is were accompanied by a number of Pz IIIs as support elements. Then, as usual, 10 pages of first class colour profiles give lots of detail on camouflage and markings, before getting to the Showcase section of expertly built models. These include 3 models of the Ausf N, and an Ausf F. Plenty of inspiration in these, as they are excellent. Then another 5 pages detailing the various models that are available from different manufacturers which work for the Pz III variants used in North Africa post-Alamein. The final sections give Technical Details and Modifications that point out what to look for in identifying the different variants, before closing with the unit establishments and Orders of Battle for not just individual Panzer Regiments, but for the whole of Panzer Armee Afrika in the final 2 years of the North African campaign.
Another excellent book, aimed primarily at the armour modeller, with historical detail, plenty of archive photos as references, along with the great artwork profiles and the model showcase. It's another super addition to the TankCraft series in my view. Good value for money.
Thanks to Pen & Sword for the review copy.

Robin