Phil built the 1/48 scale Tamiya M1A2 Abrams configured for service in Operation Iraqi Freedom.   Though assembled by the instructions, several modification and additions were made including replacing the kit tow eyes with wire and removing the rear-most section of side armor, as was a common practice to keep the drive sprocket area clear from debris.   Fine stainless steel wire was used for the FM antennas, and the sat-com antenna was scratched from styrene.   Other scratch made items included the auxiliary bustle rack, exhaust deflector, and some coolers and boxes.   More stowage items came from Black Dog and Tamiya.   Finally, the kit was painted with Model Master Acryl sand, and was weathered with oil washes and pastels.

Page design, and all pictures this page by Rick Forys - R-JWeb