1:20 "Aliens" USCM APC Resin Kit
Name changed: 1:18 US Army AR-TAV, M588 APC.
Customized this model kit to adapt to storyline. The M588 falls into class of advanced technology weapon systems. Supplied to US Army and Marines.
Development, integration and production of advanced weapon systems were conducted at Natick and Tobyhanna. Production facilities and new weapon systems were hidden in the rugged Appalachians spanning from Pennsylvania north to parts of New York.
The idea of using Air taxis to convert to APC's was actually feasible. Improved laser weapom technology derived from the Navy and Air Force prior to the invasion of Earth was finally advanced enough to set atop an armored vehicle. The laser cannon fired a high energy pulse laser beam. Assembly, modification and integration of new technology had relative short leadtime. Moving the vehicles was more tedious task to avoid detection once they left the protected facilities.
First of 13 APC'S were Assigned to a new Army division. The APC designated: Advance Research Tactical Assault Vehicle (AR-TAV), M588 APC. Nicknamed "Cameron". Each APC could carry 10 personnel. The engine was incased in a noise and heat suppression compartment.
APC is weathered, decals (from multiple kits), attached smoke grenade launchers and a forward telescopic sensor. The sensor raises and lowers (raises when stationary). The sensor provides night/day/thermal video surveillance. It has long range laser target tracking system. Operated by crew or automated. The unit can maintain lock on a target and feed the data to US artillery, armor, and air forces for direct fire missions. It also guides cruise missiles. The MLRS version of the APC uses same technology.
Main turret has its own dedicated laser tracking/locking system. When target is engaged the tracking system takes over as a fire-and-forget weapon. It allows the pulse laser weapon to remain locked on a target with gunner ability to override system.
Some custom changes to the kit:
- elevated wheel height for more ground clearance (more common with modern APC's)
- cut out opening for driver side door. Door is hinged and turning handle locks the door.
- add slide rail and rod so the side door can open/close.
- made joints so main gun can elevate. Pins to allow both main turrer and forward twin barrel gun to rotate.
- smoke grenade launchers added to left/right of the hull.
- Telescopic sensor array. When on surveillance/recon missions, the sensor rises about 5" max. The sensor rotates and tilts.
- cut out resin to add windshield to frame.
- Seats added to interior. Two rotate. Computer/control center added to right front wheel well.
- Steering mechanism added.
- Front headlights and rear taillights. Spotlight operates independently. Interior lighting uses green LED. Also independent of the other light units.
