Takom 2208 – 1/35 M51 “Degem Alef”

Historical Context & Theme

The M51 “Degem Alef” represents one of the most ambitious and effective post-war upgrades of the legendary Sherman tank. Developed by Israel in the late 1950s, the M51 program aimed to extend the operational life of aging Sherman hulls by equipping them with modern firepower capable of facing contemporary armored threats in the Middle East. The “Degem Alef” was the first production variant of this transformation.

At the heart of the upgrade was the installation of a powerful French 105 mm CN-105-F1 gun, adapted from the AMX-30 program. This modification required extensive changes to the turret, recoil system, and internal layout, resulting in a uniquely elongated barrel and a distinctive muzzle brake. The M51 Degem Alef served as a stopgap solution that proved highly effective, combining proven reliability with enhanced lethality.

These vehicles saw combat service during the Six-Day War (1967) and later conflicts, where they demonstrated that intelligent modernization could overcome numerical and technological disadvantages. The M51 stands as a symbol of Israeli ingenuity, adaptability, and pragmatic battlefield engineering.

Figure / Vehicle Details & Realism

This 1/35 scale kit by Takom delivers a highly accurate representation of the M51 Degem Alef, capturing the unique characteristics that distinguish it from both WWII Shermans and later Israeli variants.

The model features the correct turret modifications, including the extended gun tube, revised mantlet, and altered turret profile. Hull details reflect the hybrid nature of the vehicle, blending classic Sherman elements with post-war upgrades. Surface textures, weld seams, and structural features are finely rendered, providing a strong foundation for realistic finishing.

Takom’s engineering ensures crisp molding and precise fit, with running gear, suspension components, and hull geometry faithfully reproduced. The proportions and stance accurately convey the upgraded Sherman’s heavier firepower while retaining the recognizable silhouette of its WWII origins.

Diorama & Display Use

The M51 Degem Alef offers exceptional versatility for post-war and Cold War–era dioramas.

Suggested display concepts include:

Israeli armored units during the Six-Day War
Desert operations in the Middle East
Training or staging scenes with IDF crews
Post-war armored evolution displays
Standalone showcase of an upgraded Sherman

Its distinctive appearance makes it an immediate focal point in any collection. The model pairs naturally with Israeli infantry figures, desert terrain, and support vehicles, allowing modelers to explore a less common but historically rich armored theme.

Material & Customization

This is a plastic model kit designed for detailed assembly and advanced finishing.

Customization opportunities include:

IDF desert camouflage schemes
Weathering with dust, sand, and sun-fading effects
Detailing the main gun and turret modifications
Adding stowage, equipment, or crew figures
Creating battle-worn or parade-condition finishes

Assembly and painting are required. Glue and paint are not included.

Who It’s For

This kit is ideal for experienced modelers, Cold War armor enthusiasts, and builders interested in the evolution of armored warfare beyond WWII. It is especially appealing to those who appreciate historically significant upgrades and unconventional tank designs.

The M51 Degem Alef suits hobbyists seeking a distinctive subject that bridges WWII technology and modern armored combat.