Italeri 6560 M163 VADS (1/35) – Plastic Model Kit

Italeri 6560 M163 VADS in 1/35 scale is an exceptional, high-quality plastic model kit that faithfully recreates one of the most recognizable American anti-aircraft vehicles – the M163 Vulcan Air Defence System. The kit does not include glue or paints, allowing the modeler to choose preferred products compatible with the material and their own finishing style.

• Country of use: United States of America (US Army)
• Period of use: Since the 1960s, Vietnam War, Cold War, and modern times
• Material: High-quality polystyrene plastic
• Model scale: 1/35
• Category: Plastic model kit

The Italeri model presents full detail of the original, reproducing both the characteristic M113 hull and the modernized turret with the six-barrel M61 Vulcan 20 mm cannon, equipped with a precise radar rangefinder. The M163 VADS was developed in response to the need for a mobile anti-aircraft system capable of rapid deployment alongside combat units. The Vulcan system is not only an effective airspace defender, but also poses a real threat to light vehicles and unfortified ground targets.

The vehicle was used extensively by the US Army and Marine Corps during the Vietnam conflict, and was widely deployed in Europe along the frontlines during the Cold War. The M163 VADS remained in service with many countries for years, thanks to its versatility and ease of modernization.

The presented Italeri model faithfully renders vehicle details such as the suspension system, engineering tools, folding barrel system, and additional equipment. Thanks to the high-quality plastic, the model offers great potential for super detailing, e.g., using decals, photo-etched or metal barrels (not included in the set, to be purchased separately).

The recommended assembly difficulty level is 3/5 – ideal for intermediate modelers who already have some experience, but also ambitious beginners with an interest in 20th-century military vehicles. We recommend this model to all enthusiasts of American armored vehicles and collectors of the M113 series and anti-aircraft systems.