IBG Models 1/72 BTR-4E Ukrainian APC kits will hit the stores next week
Look no further, as IBG Models is set to release the highly anticipated 1/72 scale BTR-4E Ukrainian APC kits next week. What makes this release even more exciting is that the “with slat armor” boxing will include a comprehensive set of photo-etched slat armor for both the hull and the turret, allowing you to enhance the authenticity and realism of your model. In this article, we will delve into the details of this upcoming release and explore the significance of slat armor in military vehicles.
The BTR-4E Ukrainian APC
The BTR-4E Ukrainian Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) is a versatile and modern military vehicle designed to provide enhanced mobility and protection for troops in various combat scenarios. Developed by the Ukrainian defense industry, this formidable APC has gained recognition for its advanced features, making it a sought-after subject among model builders.
The Importance of Slat Armor
Slat armor, also known as cage armor, is a type of supplemental armor commonly used in modern military vehicles. It consists of a network of metal or composite bars or grids attached to the vehicle’s exterior, forming a protective layer. The primary purpose of slat armor is to defend against anti-tank rockets propelled by rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) or other shaped charge munitions.
The design of slat armor is based on the principle of disrupting the shaped charge jet produced by RPGs. When an RPG detonates near the vehicle, the slat armor creates an air gap between the main armor and the incoming threat. This gap disrupts the focused jet of the shaped charge, dissipating its energy and reducing its ability to penetrate the main armor, thus significantly increasing the vehicle’s survivability.