This latest release, the German Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf D/Tauch, is a "Convertible Kit" that can be built two ways: "normal", or Tauchpanzer version. The 229 Panzer IV "D" models were built between 1939-1940. They carried 80 rounds for the 75mm KwK37 L/24 gun and 2700 rounds for the two 7.92mm MG34's and were covered with 50-80mm armor. At 22 tons, with a 5 man crew, the Maybach HL120 300hp engine gave it a cross country range of 75 miles, at 12.5mph although capable of 25mph on a road. In 1940, 42 were converted into a Tauchpanzer or "diving tank" for Operation Sealion. A few were used by the 18th Panzer Regiment in Operation Barbarossa's River Bug crossing.

The Tauchpanzer was able to submerge to a depth of 48 feet and travel at 3mph. All openings were sealed, machine gun mount, commander's cupola, and gun mantlet were covered with rubber sheeting, and the turret ring was sheltered by an inflatable rubber ring. Non-return valves were put on the exhausts. Air was provided through a flexible 58-foot hose kept on the surface by a floating buoy. Some were used by the 18th Panzer Regiment during Operation Barbarossa's River Bug crossing.

Tristar's German Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf D/Tauch includes both, allowing the modeler to choose which model to build. Renowned master model designer, Mr.Yoshikatsu Tomioka, with thorough research by Mr. Thomas Jentz, has created another superbly accurate model to delight seasoned WWII armor modelers. The extraordinary detail that’s typically Tristar will enhance any diorama or modelers collection.