AFV Club 35116 Sd.Kfz.251/20 Ausf.D UHU (1/35) – plastic scale model kit

The AFV Club 35116 Sd.Kfz.251/20 Ausf.D UHU model in 1/35 scale is a high-quality plastic assembly kit representing the German half-track armored personnel carrier from World War II. The Sd.Kfz.251/20 Ausf.D, known by its codename “UHU”, is a unique variant of the popular Sd.Kfz.251 Ausf.D, featuring a powerful infrared searchlight designed to work with the “Vampir” night system, intended primarily to support armored units during night operations.

• Scale: 1/35
• Material: high-quality plastic with precisely reproduced details
• Country of use: Germany
• Historical period: World War II (years 1944–1945)
• Category: plastic model kit
• Extras: clear parts for simulating windows, decals, detailed interior parts, optional photo-etched metal parts and segment tracks

Brief history of the vehicle

The Sd.Kfz.251/20 Ausf.D UHU was one of the first military vehicles equipped with a 60 cm infrared searchlight, designed to illuminate battlefields for Panzer V Panther tanks fitted with “Vampir” night vision devices. The introduction of this vehicle marked a pioneering step for Germany in night-fighting and IR technology, mainly employed towards the end of World War II in 1945 on the Western and Eastern Fronts. UHU is a rare vehicle, notable for its impressive appearance and unique role, making it an appealing choice for military enthusiasts and model builders interested in the Wehrmacht’s unusual designs.

Build quality and contents

The AFV Club model is distinguished by precisely reproduced details, excellent parts fit, and a realistically rendered crew compartment and IR searchlight installation. The kit contains decals for accurately recreating the original markings and clear assembly instructions. The materials used ensure high quality of the finished model.

Who is it for?

This product is recommended for intermediate and advanced modelers (difficulty level 3/5) seeking a realistic vehicle with an unusual history. Ideal for a late World War II diorama. The kit offers satisfaction in assembly and makes for a striking display piece while developing skills in working with fine details.