South African Ratel 90 AML-90 turret
GAS50026
GAS50026
Complete kit of the South African Ratel 90 turret AML-90 in 1/48 scale
Kit contains:
- Resin parts
- Decal sheet
- Brass rods to make the wheels movable if desired
- Assembly instructions with parts list and color photos: Download instructions
You can also contact us to have this model assembled and painted with the camouflage of your choice.
History of the South African Ratel 90 turret AML-90
Produced and delivered from 1976 onwards, this infantry fighting vehicle is a local creation whose genesis dates back to 1968. The vehicle is nicknamed "Ratel", in homage to a particularly robust type of endemic kinkajou. It's a 6x6 armored vehicle weighing 18.5 tons, available in numerous versions with different weaponry (cannons of various calibers, mortars, anti-tank missiles, etc.) and carrying 6 to 8 troops - depending on the version.
The six-cylinder, twelve-liter turbo diesel engine delivers 280 hp, giving the "Ratel" a top speed of 105 km/h on the road and 30 km/h off-road. The range is 500 km with a full tank: 430 l of fuel. The main armament of the "Ratel 90" is a French 90 mm cannon with 60 shells, manned by a gunner and a tank commander. In addition, three 7.62 machine guns, each supplied with 1,200 rounds, form the secondary armament. The South African Defence Force has used the "Ratel 90" in local conflicts, against Namibia for example.