Many thanks to all the modelers for the comments posted here. Today, I’d like to share some background on the history of the PMM-2M. Some modelers might wonder why the vehicle is named PMM-2M—implying, of course, that there must have been a PMM-1. The development of these amphibious bridging vehicles took place in the former Soviet Union during the 1970s, starting with the PMM-1 “Molniya.” That vehicle was based on an 8-wheeled chassis—meaning it did not use tracks.Production of this vehicle was discontinued due to its poor off-road capability when exiting bodies of water; financial issues likely played a role as well. It was followed by the production of the PMM-2 and, featuring a modified hull and pontoons, the PMM-2M. All of these were fielded by the GSSD—stationed on the front line facing NATO. Three coupled ferry units had a combined load-bearing capacity of 120 tons on the water.Since the PMM-1 Volna is also an interesting vehicle, this post offers a good opportunity to showcase its model alongside the PMM-2M. I might share the build log here as well. I will write more about exhibitions later.
Wow. Very impressive!
Bitte!
Yes Please!
Yes, Uncle-Heavy, if there is interest and my time permits, I will present this build here as well. It was an interesting project, just like the PMM-2M. Since I want to wrap up the presentation of the PMM-2M as soon as possible, today we continue with photos showing the deployment of the pontoons. The model presentation will conclude with the transport of a T-80B tank belonging to the 44th Guards Tank Regiment of the 11th Tank Division (Dresden). For today, however, we start with the unfolding of the pontoons—a procedure that could be carried out either on land or in the water.
The ferry is ready for loading, and the transport of the tanks across the water can begin.
That would be a good subject for a diorama.
Those models are simply fantastic. Great job!
Olivier
Outstanding work! Thanks for sharing the process. 
…
—mike
Off topic Joachim but I just wanted to thank you for the tip-off re the undermentioned scale cabling; I received some today and just wanted to acknowledge your advice. I’ve also listed such under the “What the postman brought today” topic.
Thanks again.
You’ll really enjoy using them during the build. You won’t find better ropes. I wish you the best of luck.
Best regards, Joachim
Incredible work on both of them.
Here are the previously announced photos of the ferry fully loaded. This is how the Elbe was crossed during the Cold War.
Simply breathtaking, Joachim! Einfach sagenhaft; bitte auch einen Baubericht der PMM1.
Peter
Another strong candidate for Build of the Year, bravo!
Today, I’d like to address a few of your comments. Regarding the request for the build log of the PMM-1 Wolnja ferry: I had previously posted this report on the old forum, but I’ve discovered that the accompanying photos are no longer available. If I can still find the photos, I will try to post the report here again. Building that model was a very interesting experience for me. Peter, regarding your question about the exhibition in Lingen: I won’t be participating in it. I feel that Cold War-era models aren’t really in demand in western Germany. If I were to exhibit, I might run the risk of having to obscure or remove the markings and lettering from the model—something I know happened to another modeler who exhibited there. The current global political climate is likely the reason for this. So, you’re better off looking at the models here. Another model of mine will be featured here soon; I’m looking forward to the build.
Best regards, Joachim
After a night’s sleep, I think I shouldn’t let a part of your last post uncommented:
Yes, the Russian government is highly unpopular - but a glance at the international press shows that dislike not to be limited to “western Germany”. So, let’s keep this site unpolitical instead of spreading rumors that some modelers might exert censorship over markings on Soviet Cold War models.
Come and bring your models to the exhibition and you’ll find nothing but praise for your excellent work!
Peter
I need to issue a correction regarding my post about the exhibition in Lingen. That incident didn’t actually take place in Lingen, but at a different exhibition—though I prefer not to name the location here. I do not wish to offend or upset anyone; in my personal opinion, scale modeling should remain separate from political decisions.