This is another re-release from Italeri of a kit from the old ESCI range.  The M113 used the hull of an M113 APC and added the 20mm Vulcan cannon as an air defense weapon.  Seldom used for the purpose it was designed for, it was very effective against ground targets.  The Americans used them in Vietnam and in the First Gulf War, while Israel has been another operator in the Middle East.

The kit is neatly done, with the interior bulkheads included, but no other interior detailing.  The track is a link and length style which works quite nicely and the fit of parts is good.  The gun and the turret are basic though OK.  This is one of those kits which I think would do well for a resin / etch brass upgrade/detailing sets to be done for it to take it to the next level.  The kit also includes the extra side pods which were added for buoyancy, in order to retain the ability to 'swim' water obstacles, as can the basic M113.

Markings are provided for four alternatives. On with the US Army in Vietnam in 1970, another with the US Army in Germany in 1987, both of which have multi-colour camouflage schemes.  Then the remaining two are both from the period of the First Gulf War in 1991, one in the US Army and the other from the Royal Saudi Land Forces, both in an overall sand scheme.

Thanks to Italeri and the Hobby Company for the news.