Introduction

A new series of books, Scale Armour Modelling Colours, has been release by Guideline Publications, Camouflage and Markings. The first in the series, Volume 1 - Armour in Theatre Eastern Front Spring and Summer 1943. This book delves into the Battle of Kursk, with lots of details covering the paint schemes used by both the Germans and Russians.

Book

Scale Armour Modelling Colours
Camouflage & Markings -Volume 1 - Armor in Theatre Eastern Front Spring and Summer 1943
Written and Compiled by Mark Healy
Illustrated by Claudio Fernandez
64 Pages - Softcover
Over 150 images
Published by Guideline Publications

Review

The softcover book measure 8 by 12 and is printed on quality glossy paper. The black text is very well printed, clear, and easy to read. The images are of great quality and printed clear. The text is supported by many tables that are well laid out.

When I first got my hands on the book, I thought this should be an quick and easy read, but I was surprised at the depth of the information presented in the book. The book starts off with some description of the situations up to the start of the battle in Kursk in the Spring and Summer of 1943. The book introduces the situation on the Eastern Front, organizational changes in both forces, and the state of armour production for both sides.

The book then goes into a very informative description into the development of colours used by each side. After reading this book, I think I know more about the development of Dunkelgelb then I thought I would ever know. The book does a great job in describing the development and use of the three main colours used on German armour and what became the standard green, 4BO, for the Russians. The text does great job of explaining the reasons why German camouflage varied during the war.

After the very in depth section on colours, the book then goes into a introduction of the main armour combatant that were used around Kursk. The text includes description of the vehicles as well as numerous table showing numbers and deployment of the various vehicles. There is also a section covering the markings used by both sides. The book then moves into an in depth description of the events in chronological order from July 1 to July 17, 1943.

The book does include many colour plates showing paint schemes and markings of various German and Russian vehicles. These are a great asset for reference and for modellers.

Conclusion

This book is a great reference book for both German and Russian vehicles used during Operation Citadel and around the Kursk front. With the great explanation of vehicle colours, their origin and use, I highly recommend this book as both a great reference material and for modellers wishing to complete vehicles from this period of World War 2.