1/35 Tiger I Initial Production Tunisia 1942/43 – Dragon 6608

The Dragon 1/35 Tiger I Initial Production Tunisia 1942/43 (6608) recreates the very first Tiger tanks to see combat in North Africa. These early Tigers—assigned to s.Pz.Abt. 501—arrived in Tunisia in late 1942 and fought through early 1943 in some of the harshest desert conditions of the war.

Dragon’s kit captures the unique features of these early Tigers, including the initial‑pattern turret, drum‑style commander’s cupola, Feifel air‑cleaner system, and the distinctive fittings used during the Tunisia campaign. With Dragon’s signature detail, sharp molding, and premium extras, this kit is ideal for modelers who want to build one of the most historically significant Tiger I variants.

Historical Background

The Tiger I made its North African debut in late 1942, marking its first major deployment outside the Eastern Front.

Key historical notes:

• Tigers of s.Pz.Abt. 501 were shipped to Tunisia to support Axis forces after the Allied landings in Operation Torch

• Early Tigers featured:

  • Drum‑style cupola

  • Feifel air‑cleaner system for desert operations

  • Initial‑pattern exhausts

  • Rubber‑rimmed road wheels

  • Early turret pistol ports and stowage layout

• These Tigers fought at:

  • Tebourba

  • Pont du Fahs

  • Kasserine Pass

• Desert conditions created iconic weathering: dust‑covered hulls, sand‑clogged tracks, and sun‑faded paint

• Many Tunisia Tigers wore tropical camouflage, sometimes over Panzer Grey

The Tunisia campaign Tigers are visually distinctive and historically important, making them a favorite subject for modelers.

Kit Highlights

Dragon’s 6608 kit delivers exceptional detail and accuracy:

Detail & Accuracy

• Correct initial‑production Tiger I configuration for Tunisia

• Highly detailed turret with early cupola and pistol port

• Accurate 88mm KwK 36 gun with breech detail

• Optional Feifel air‑cleaner system and desert‑specific fittings

Running Gear & Tracks

• Detailed suspension and torsion‑bar system

• Magic Tracks (individual‑link) for maximum realism

• Early‑pattern rubber‑rimmed road wheels

Extras & Options

• Photo‑etched parts for grills and fine details

• Clear parts for optics and periscopes

• Optional open/closed hatches

• Decals for multiple Tunisia‑based Tigers of s.Pz.Abt. 501

• Ideal for desert weathering, dust effects, and sun‑bleached finishes

This kit is perfect for modelers who enjoy German armor, North African subjects, and historically rich early‑production vehicles. The Tiger I Initial Production Tunisia 1942/43 is a visually striking and historically significant centerpiece for any WWII armor collection.

Available now at AFV Hobby Hub with fast shipping and secure checkout.