Sd.Kfz.2 Kettenkrad Skijager-Brigade Russia Winter 1944 HG1705 scale 1:48

Sd.Kfz.2 Kettenkrad Skijager-Brigade Russia Winter 1944 HG1705 scale 1:48 Half-track motorcycle light winter scheme Hobby Master 1:48 scale Ground Power series Hobby Master item number: HG1705 Scale 1:48 Die Cast Model The Sd.Kfz. 2 designation was for the Kettenkrad. Ketten means tracks and krad is the military abbreviation of Kraftrad, administrative term for motorcycle. Originally intended for use by German airborne troops it was designed to fit inside the JU-52 aircraft. With its amazing ability to tow 4 tons the vehicle soon was used to tow light artillery and trailers as well as aircraft to save aviation fuel. One variant was specifically used for laying communication cables. The vehicle was turned using handlebars or in tandem with track brakes. The 1st Ski Division (1. Skijäger-Division) was an infantry unit of the German Army trained to use skis for movement during winter or on high mountain elevations. The unit was created in late 1943 on the Eastern Front just before winter began. In the summer of 1944 the brigade was enlarged to a Division with the inclusion of the 52nd Infantry Division. The 1st Ski Division fought exclusively on the Eastern Front and had some of the latest equipment but it was too late in WWII and they suffered heavy losses. Specifications for the NSU Werke AG Kettenkrad Manufacturer – Opel (GM) Production Period – 1941 / 1944 Number Produced – 8,345 Crew - 3 / Driver + 2 passengers) Engine - Water-cooled four cylinder in-line engine with (OHV) 36 bhp (26 kW) @ 3400 rpm Maximum Speed - 70 km/h (44 mph) Total weight -1,560 kg (3,444 lb) Gearbox Reverse - 1 Forward - 2 Length – 3,000 mm (118") Width – 1,000 mm (39") Height – 1,200 mm (47") Tire size -3.50-19