Introduction

Some of you might have seen a review of the 1/72th scale Aoshima Type73 tank transporter with a Tetra model works photo-etch detail set. This review compliments the projects as I decided to put a JGSDF Type10 tank from Fujimi on it, also with a Tetra model works photo-etched set.

JGSDF tank transporter Live links
Type 73 detail set Live links

Type 10 is a modern MBT of the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force (JGSDF) which is in service from 2012. Fujimi released a number of kits covering various prototypes as well as the production vehicle and Tetra model works made a set that can be used on kits ref #722436, #722429 and #722443 (with dozer blade as on my pictures).

The plastic kit is rather good and much better than the Type74 tank from Pit-Road that was included into original Aoshima’s package of the tank transporter that I had. However, it gets even better with a set from Tetra.

The Set

ME-72003 contains a large photo-etched fret, a number of rubber parts for mud flaps and a colourful A4 assembly manual. Everything is packed in clear plastic and a piece of cardboard is included to prevent bending of parts during transportation. The quality of etching is exceptional and it features great detail for 1/72 scale.

All addressed issues are not just for the sake of replacing something with finer photo-etched parts, but rather adding absent details. These include meshes for the rear turret stowage basket, protective meshes for front lights, all the meshes necessary for the hull roof (there is even no imitation of these things in the Fujimi kit!). The turret also gets lifting hooks, a detailed ring on the commander’s hatch and guards for aerial bases. The machine gun receives an ammo box and an additional sight, however I haven’t found such sights online (my bad search probably). On the rear end of the hull the exhaust ducts are replaced with delicate photo-etched assembly with hooks for towing cable. Totally worth spending time as they look marvelous when assembled.

Another important component of that set is inclusion of rubber-like material for the replication of side skirt mud flaps (as well as the rear and forward ones). They look very realistic and are easy to install for the sides.

However, the front mud flap was beyond my skill, assuming I should have used a different type of CA glue. In my hands the photo-etched backbone on the inner side of the flap was breaking which lead to inability of holding the shape.

Conclusion

Otherwise, this is a very good detail set that updates Fujimi tank and some of the parts like meshes, grills and exhaust ducts are an absolute must have. What is also good is that some of the smaller parts are given in excessive numbers meaning that if your carpet monster eats them you can always take another one from fret (same is true for Type73 update set).