Military Model Scene

Title: Stryker, Interim Combat Vehicle. LandCraft 4
Author: Dave Grummitt
Publisher: Pen & Sword
ISBN: 978-1-52677-418-7

Number 4 in the LandCraft series from Pen & Sword is for another modern vehicle, and another title written for them by Dave Grummitt. It follows the standard format for this series, with a 64-page soft-cover book.
It starts with the development story of the Stryker, how the US Army found the need to change their requirements after the end of the Cold War, when new threats around the world appeared, and mobility became a key focus. Designated the Interim Combat Vehicle, it was the experience gained from the original MOWAG design, and the success of the LAV with both the US Marines and the Canadian Army, who operated the LAV III. We are told the story of not only how and why this 8-wheel vehicle was selected, but also how it got to be named Stryker in US service. Then the story is divided to make space for 9-pages of fine colour profiles of Stryker variants, then a Modellers Showcase with 6 high quality model builds, a mix of Trumpeter and AFV Club kits. This leads perfectly into a survey of Modelling Products, kits and accessories in both 1/35 and 1/72 scales. Then it is back to the real thing, and several sections detailing each of the different variants now using the same 8-wheel chassis, including the basic infantry carrier along with the turreted Dragoon, the Gun Carrier, ATGW, AA, Command, Engineer and Medical versions. That leaves the last few pages for coverage of the Stryker/LAV III in combat use.
There are plenty of 1/35 kits already on the market and more small scale ones on the way. So the mix of detail on the real thing and available models will attract lots of modellers I am sure, with the Showcase examples set to inspire many who see them. Well over 4,000 have been built for US Army service, and it seems there will be plenty of years to come for service of the mix of variants.
Thanks to Pen & Sword for our review copy.

Robin