ISBN: 978-2-917661-00-0
MSRP: $14.50 Euro (approx. $19.50 USD)
64 pages including Full Color, Soft Covers
Web Site: www.minitracks.fr/

Just as WWI spawned the aircraft as a fighting machine, it gave birth to the tank as an actual Armored, Fighting Vehicle that forever changed the battlefield in ways that had only been dreamt of before. Yet after the 'War to End All Wars' ended, only one tank design was deemed suitable to remain in service, the Renault FT17. It went on to serve many nations throughout the between-the-wars years and even fought more battles in the Second World War.

Renault went back to building civilian cars and trucks after WWI, and realized the only way it would entice peace time governments to upgrade their armies would be if they upgraded the slow FT17. Renault continued its development keeping much of the FT17 including the turret in early models, concluding with the D1 designed in 1926. It was a unique and innovative light tank with a turret mounted 47mm main armament along with a 7.5mm coaxial machine gun, a second mg mounted in the hull, a three man crew and a radio which allowed communication with artillery and aircraft. Where the FT17 could barely keep pace with infantrymen, the D1 easily kept pace with convoys. Three battalions were sent to Tunisia to counter Italy's expansion in North Africa. The 67e BCC battalion returned to France in June 1940, losing all its tanks fighting the futile French campaign. The remaining D1s formed the foundation of the French units fighting alongside the Allies.

It is published by Minitracks in a by modelers for modelers format similar to the magazine. Line drawings and sharp photos show interior detail, while the original black/white photo(s) artist Eric Schwartz translated into the 22 full color side views are included for your own interpretation. Interestingly, some early D1s had FT17 turrets, while others received their final turrets years after being fielded with completely different camouflage colors or patterns than the hulls had. Since exceptions were the rule, modelers would be wise to reference this book when entering contests.

Text is in both English and French which works very well, but if that makes you hesitate, remember, all the photos and drawings are in English. Renault D1 - Trackstory No. 8 should be at your favorite hobby shop, otherwise contact Minitracks at www.minitracks.fr/ or phone (33)02-37-49-84-76.

I highly recommend it.

Thanks to Minitracks for the review copy.