After introducing you to the PTS-2 amphibious tracked transporter, today we’ll continue with the PMM-2M pontoon bridge ferry. This vehicle was introduced into the Group of Soviet Forces in Germany (GSFG) in the early 1980s, along with the PTS-2. Like the PTS-2, it was developed based on the T-64 main battle tank. The model is being built, as always, in 1:35 scale. The starting kits are again T-64 kits from Trumpeter and a PTS-M kit from Panzer Shop. The tank tracks are, as usual, from Friul. The PTS-M kit is very well suited for such model conversions. The model will be built so that the two pontoons can be opened, thus demonstrating the ferry’s operational state.
Here are some pictures of the ferry and the beginning of the model’s construction.
I’d like to thank all the model builders who responded to this thread. I hadn’t expected such a large turnout for this model. Regarding BootsDMS’s question about whether there’s a model I can’t recreate, I’d say every model can be recreated with proper preparation. This one is no exception. I started working on this vehicle some time ago and created the corresponding 1:35 scale plans. It’s a complex model, no doubt about it. Especially concerning the deployment of the pontoons, which the model aims to replicate. The mechanics involved were a true masterpiece for the designers, one that’s hard to find today. The engineering of the Group of Soviet Forces in Germany (GSFG) has always been my main interest in model building, and seeing the real thing during the Cold War was a real pleasure. The military liaison missions of that era were no different. BootsDMS would know more about this than I do. That would be a whole new topic for discussion here, with plenty to talk about.
Here are some pictures of the construction progress.
Today, after a long break, here’s an update on the PMM-2M model build. Progress is slow; I lack the time and motivation to continue. I want to emphasize again that this is not a 3D model. All parts are either scratch-built by me or sourced from other kits. Meanwhile, I’ve discovered a Russian model maker who creates this model in 3D. I won’t be able to achieve that level of perfection, but he did an excellent job. It’s also a very complex model. Since I have no experience with 3D modeling or computer technology, I have no choice but to build it using traditional model-making techniques.
Here are some more pictures of the current state of the model.
Looks good enough to me Joachim! Not that I know much about this piece of kit; GSFG/WGF were no slackers when it came to getting good kit, and training on it.
Keep up the outstanding work Joachim - it will be worth it all I’m sure.
