STUPA, German nickname for Sturmpanzer (assault infantry tank), not be confused with Sturmgeschultz (mobile assault gun/anti-tank), this vehicle is also known as BRUMMBAR (Grizzly Bear). Based on Panzer IV tank, it was the fourth version mounting a 150mm sIG33 howitzer onto armored chassis. Sturmpanzer IV Brummbär Sd. Kfz. 166 - www.achtungpanzer.com/brum.htm

Began model project began in 1987, first usage of modeling putty to create hull grooves mimicking ZIMMERIT : ceramic paste applied along the hull to create barrier against magnetic grenades, satchel charges, and mines used by enemy anti-tank infantry. Germans used this technique on mainly tanks and mobile artillery from late-1943 to early-1945. Used a plastic styrene slab as contouring blade. Tab of putty placed on screwdriver tip, applied onto small model surface area via top-down fashion, then parallel contour lines were impressed via the slab. Putty had to be worked on small amounts since it quickly hardened. Zimmerit - www.panzerworld.net/zimmerit.html

Rollover : Circular zimmerit pattern used around gun mantle. When painting was completed, model dusted in black chalk for weathering wear and tear. Brick pavement made from model railroad plastic sheet, concrete sidewalk made from stacks of hard cardboard paper. Ground areas painted TAMIYA Panzer Grey, paint washed with dirty thinner mixed with TESTOR Tan for surface detailing. Brummbär - en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brummbär

Germans mounted spare tracks on hull as defacto Schurzen (extra armor shields). Intention is for enemy rounds to detonate on these tracks, expend most of their energy before impacting main hull. Tracks painted TAMIYA Earthen Brown, dry-brushed TESTOR Light Sea Grey. Schürzen ("Aprons" or side skirts) - www.balagan.org.uk/war/crossfire/history/armour.htm

Inset : Stupa armed with 150mm StuH 43 L/12 gun, derived from sIG33 tow artillery (heavy infantry howitzer 33). Above example in winter camouflage on Ostfront (Eastern Front). German Self-Propelled Artillery - www.wargamer.com/Hosted/Panzer/artillery.htm