Takom 2216 – 1/35 M577A1 Command Post Carrier

Takom 2216 – 1/35 M577A1 Command Post Carrier is a detailed plastic model kit of the command-and-control variant developed from the M113 family of tracked armored vehicles. Distinguished by its raised rear superstructure and roof-mounted auxiliary power equipment, the M577A1 provided additional working space for commanders, communications personnel and artillery fire-direction teams. Takom reproduces the vehicle with detailed driver and command-post interiors, optional open hatches and rear ramp, link-and-length tracks, clear components and photo-etched details, making TAKOM2216 particularly suitable for Vietnam War and Cold War modeling projects.

Contexte historique et thème

The M577 was developed from the M113 armored personnel carrier to provide U.S. Army formations with a protected mobile command post. Instead of the low troop compartment of the standard M113, the M577 received a significantly raised rear roof that created enough internal space for personnel to work with maps, radios and command equipment.

The diesel-powered M577A1 followed the same general evolution as the M113A1, replacing the earlier gasoline powerplant with a diesel engine. U.S. Army historical research records the M577A1 entering the family during the early 1960s, with thousands subsequently fielded. The type served as a command post, communications platform and artillery Fire Direction Center, including extensive operational use during the Vietnam War.

When halted, M577 crews could extend their working area with a tent attached to the rear of the vehicle, allowing several command vehicles or work areas to be connected into a larger tactical headquarters. An auxiliary power unit supported the electrical demands of communications and command equipment.

Détails et réalisme des figurines et véhicules

Takom 2216 includes interior detail for both the driver’s compartment and the raised command-post area, making the vehicle particularly attractive when displayed with its access points open. The main hatches and rear ramp can be modeled open or closed, allowing the interior to remain visible in a command-post or maintenance setting.

The characteristic trim vane at the front can be represented deployed or stowed, while the rear of the vehicle includes the rolled command-tent stowage associated with its mobile headquarters role. Link-and-length tracks reproduce the M113-family running gear, while clear and photo-etched components provide additional refinement. Decals with multiple marking choices are included.

Utilisation en diorama et en affichage

The M577A1 is particularly well suited to Vietnam War command-post and artillery dioramas. It can be displayed at a base camp with its rear ramp open, surrounded by radio equipment, maps, personnel and field supplies, or positioned alongside artillery units as a Fire Direction Center.

A more mobile scene can show the vehicle travelling with an M113 formation along a road or track, while Cold War settings with U.S. or allied forces are also appropriate because the M577 family remained widely used after Vietnam. Several vehicles positioned together with command tents and communications equipment can form the center of a larger headquarters diorama.

Matériel et personnalisation

TAKOM2216 is an unassembled and unpainted 1/35 injection-molded plastic model kit. Photo-etched parts, clear components and decals are included, together with link-and-length style tracks. A figure is not included. Glue and paint are required separately.

The broad aluminum hull surfaces offer excellent opportunities for fading, dust, mud, scratches and operational wear. Opening the rear ramp and hatches also allows the command-post interior to become a major part of the finished model rather than remaining hidden.

À qui s'adresse-t-il ?

Takom 2216 is ideal for Vietnam War modelers, Cold War armor enthusiasts, U.S. military vehicle builders and diorama creators looking for a less conventional M113-family subject. The detailed interior and numerous display options make it especially suitable for modelers interested in command vehicles and operational scenes rather than purely combat-focused armor.