Thunder Model has officially announced the upcoming 1/35 scale US Heavy Wrecker Ward LaFrance M1A1 Standard Kit Edition, scheduled for release at the end of September. This kit brings one of the most recognisable American heavy recovery vehicles of the Second World War into scale form, combining traditional injection-moulded sprues with modern production techniques.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Thunder Model

• Scale: 1/35

• Vehicle: US Heavy Wrecker Ward LaFrance M1A1

• Edition: Standard kit edition

• Contents: 10 sprues with approximately 700 parts

• Extra materials: Clear parts, 10 3D-printed components, vacuum-formed cab canvas, photo-etched detail set

Options and Details

• 5 separate decal options covering different service markings

• Scale ropes and chains provided for rigging and recovery detail

• Accurate reproduction of the cab, boom system, winches, and chassis layout

• Combination of styrene, photo-etch, and 3D-printed parts for high fidelity detail

Release Details

• Release window: End of September

• Availability: Hobby shops and official Thunder Model distributors

Context

The Ward LaFrance M1A1 was a heavy wrecker vehicle widely used by US forces during the Second World War, tasked with recovering damaged tanks, vehicles, and heavy equipment from the battlefield. Known for its ruggedness and versatility, it became an essential support unit across multiple theatres of war. Thunder Model’s new kit reflects this legacy, giving modellers the tools to build an authentic miniature of the machine, with modern touches such as 3D-printed parts and a vacuum-formed cab canvas enhancing the realism.

Comparison with AFV Club’s Ward LaFrance Kits

AFV Club has previously released its own 1/35 Ward LaFrance kits, which focused on traditional styrene moulding with photo-etched details. While well-received, those kits relied on conventional construction methods. Thunder Model’s edition introduces several modern upgrades:

• 3D-printed parts included as standard for finer details
• Vacuum-formed cab canvas for realistic fabric texture
• Scale ropes and chains provided out of the box, reducing the need for aftermarket additions
• Simplified but precise engineering aimed at balancing build complexity with accuracy