German Tractor RSO/01 - 1/35

German Tractor RSO/01

1/35 scale plastic model assembly kit of the german tractor Raupenschlepper Ost (RSO/01).

About the model:
- 1/35 scale plastic model kit
- Highly detailed model
- Length: 126 mm
- Width: 64 mm
- The post-spring 1943 model is faithfully captured in style based on extensive research of the actual vehicle
- The distinctive rounded cabin is realistically depicted.
- Choose between bed with and without canvas cover (which shows canvas frame).
- Snow tracks at track sides are also rendered.
- Features authentic renderings of bed wood patterns and canvas cover fabric patterns.
- Mechanisms such as engine, drive shaft and differential gears are faithfully depicted.
- Assembly-type tracks feature one-piece straight sections.
- Cabin front cover can be assembled with and without shutters.
- One driver figure and masking stickers for painting transparent window parts are included.
- Decals depict 1st Skijäger Division at Eastern Front, 1944 and unknown unit in France, 1944.

History:
The Raupenschlepper Ost RSO/01 was developed during the Second World War in response to the extremely difficult conditions encountered on the Eastern Front. Deep mud, poor roads and heavy snow frequently brought conventional trucks and many half-tracked vehicles to a standstill. Steyr-Daimler-Puch therefore developed a simple and robust fully tracked tractor, designated RSO – an abbreviation of Raupenschlepper Ost, or “tracked tractor East”.

Series production of the RSO/01 began in October 1942. This first major production version was distinguished by its characteristic rounded cab made from pressed steel. Its high ground clearance, wide tracks and air-cooled engine provided reliable mobility across snow, mud and rough terrain, although its maximum speed was comparatively low. From the spring of 1943, the design received several improvements, including a slightly raised cab floor that provided additional clearance for snow cleats fitted to the tracks.

The unarmoured RSO/01 was primarily employed to carry ammunition, equipment and supplies, as well as to tow light and medium artillery. Typical loads included weapons such as the 7.5 cm Pak 40 anti-tank gun and the 10.5 cm leFH 18 light field howitzer. Its rear cargo bed could be used uncovered, fitted with a canvas frame or enclosed beneath a canvas cover, making the vehicle a versatile military workhorse.

Although originally designed for operations in Russia, the RSO was later used in Italy, France and other theatres of war. Its straightforward construction and excellent cross-country mobility made it particularly valuable in areas where more sophisticated vehicles could not operate reliably. The RSO/01 consequently became one of the characteristic transport and artillery tractor vehicles employed by German forces during the second half of the Second World War.