introduction

This is the second review of a Phoenix Models diorama base. This time comprising of a concrete tower, typically seen in Iraq, set on a diorama base. Once again it is entirely vac-formed release and this will require careful assembly.

contents

Inside the a sturdy cardboard box complete with a number of illustrations of the box contents the modeller will find:

• 1 x base sheet in grey styrene
• 1 x sheet containing the tower walls
• 1x sheet comprising the middle section of the tower
• 1x circular roof panel
• 1x optional square roof panel
• 1x roadside blast wall made from four pieces
• 1x road barrier
• 1x assembly instruction guide
• 1x instruction sheet

review

The base represents a road with a section of pavement the road has a well-worn appearance as has the section of pavement. The tower has been split in half into thirds this may prove awkward to assemble and the modeller should take time to ensure that the sections line up correctly. There is no interior detail and this could be added using sheet styrene. There is a doorway at the base of the tower and this will need to be opened up if required.

The centre section is made up of a split ring if the modeller chooses to add the interior then a hatch will be required, there are two options for the roof a square one and a circular both can be seen on reference photographs. The road barrier is a little basic but with some work it could easily be left workable. The roadside blast wall is a little curious it seems to be of an unusual design. It could be used however there are a number of examples already available if the modeller chooses not to use it.

Painting and weathering will be very rewarding and this will bring out the many details featured on this release. There are a number of opportunities to really try out a number of weathering techniques and it is this that will be the most rewarding.

conclusion

Overall another welcome release from Phoenix Models and this is quite a nice base. It can be incorporated into other sets to extend the base, as a standalone this could display a smaller vehicle – Humvee or similar but a large AFV or tank will overhang the edges.