The Shtora linkage assembly is another tricky little fit. A hole is drilled into the vinyl mantlet (not the best medium to drill!) to receive the linkage. It is then secured to the front of the turret; but needs a little persuasion to sit correctly.
The commander’s cupola fits into the top turret with a push fit. The locating tab ensures a secure fit whilst enabling the structure to rotate if you so wish.
The model is masked with a combination of Tamiya tape and Humbrol Maskol. The gun barrel is not fitted at this stage to help with the painting process.
The pre painted running gear is masked off with tape.
As per usual, Tamiya NATO Black is the undercoat and primer of choice.
Here’s a few pics of the model just before painting:
