Academy

Kit Number 13205

1/35 M2A2 Bradley O.I.F.

First Look By Greg Harting, #39302
MSRP: $38.00 USD

The recent release from Academy is the "M2A2 Bradley O.I.F." (Operation Iraqi Freedom.)  The kit contains six (6) sprues, four (4) of which are from their previous M2A1 Bradley IFV kit.  Academy took a shortcut with molding the side ERA with the upper hull in one piece.  The two (2) new sprues (F & G) contain 64 and 65 parts, respectively, needed to build an ODS (Operation Desert Storm) Bradley.  The new parts include:

  • Outer drive sprockets with open lightening holes.
  • Combat Identification Panels for sides & rear.
  • Upgraded drivers hatch.
  • Current-style turret basket.
  • Bolt-on front hull armor plate.
  • Current-style Laser Range Finder.
  • Spare road wheels and drive sprocket.
  • Upgraded crew hatch with reactive armor.
  • 2 curved steel plates.
  • Reactive armor plating for hull and turret.
  • Turret M240 coaxial MG.
  • Fluted barrel for the M242 Bushmaster.

Unfortunately, Academy did not feel the need to include an interior or figures for the Bradley.  The kit includes the same rubber-band tracks from the previous kits, which are not correct for this version of the Bradley, as well as the lower hull with motorization holes.  There are also some other accuracy issues with the kit, those can be easily found on the net.

The eight page instruction sheet starts off with the road wheels, idlers and drive sprockets.  Step 2 takes you to the lower hull assembly.  Step 3 thru 5 deals with the assembly of the rear door and ramp combination, the fitting of the rear plate, stowage bins, road wheels, idlers and drive sprockets. Steps 6 to 8 show the upper hull assemblies which include the engine access, ERA plates, headlights and pioneer equipment.  Steps 9 thru 12 are the assembly of the turret, commander/gunner hatches, turret basket, ERA panels and TOW weapon system.

The last part is the painting guide and decal placement.  There is only one color suggestion - sand.  The decals are new and are for two unidentified Bradley's in Baghdad in 2003, although research shows them to be from the 3rd Infantry Division.

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