M50 Sherman early pattern DEGEM ALEPH/DEGEM BETH

Plastic model kit for an early version of the Israeli M50 Sherman DEGEM ALEPH/DEGEM BETH

• Scale 1:35
• 2 versions - can be built as DEGEM ALEPH or DEGEM BETH
  • various gearbox housings and rear armor
  • 3 different drive sprockets
  • 3 different support rollers
  • 2 track types
• workable individual track links and running gear
• hatches can be built open or closed
• unbuilt, unpainted
• paint and glue not included

The Israeli M50 Sherman was developed in the mid-1950s to meet the Israeli army's need to make its aging M4 Sherman tanks competitive against modern Soviet T-34/85 and later T-54 tanks. Following a collaboration with France, the powerful French 75mm CN 75-50 gun from the AMX-13 light tank was installed in the Sherman. This weapon was based on the German Panther KwK 42 gun and significantly improved the Sherman's penetration and range. In Israel, the conversion was designated "M50," while internationally it was often known as the "Super Sherman."

The early version was designated "Degem Aleph" ("Model A"). These vehicles were primarily based on the Sherman M4A4 and initially retained the older VVSS suspension with narrow tracks. They were usually powered by the air-cooled Continental R975 radial engine running on gasoline. A characteristic feature was the modified turret front with an extended barrel and a large counterweight at the rear to balance the heavy SA-50 gun. However, off-road mobility suffered due to the increased weight and narrow tracks, which frequently led to mechanical problems.

From 1960 onward, the improved version "Degem Beth" ("Model B") was introduced. This version received the more powerful Cummins VT8-460 diesel engine with 460 hp, as well as wider tracks. This significantly improved reliability, ride comfort, and off-road capability – especially in desert operations. Many Degem Beth vehicles were based on M4A3 chassis with large driver's hatches. Despite the modernization, the armor remained largely at the level of World War II. The M50 Sherman fought successfully in the Sinai Campaign of 1956 and the Six-Day War of 1967. However, against modern Arab main battle tanks such as the T-54, T-55, or later the T-62, they increasingly reached their limits. Nevertheless, the M50 remained in Israeli service until the 1970s due to its robustness, ease of maintenance, and good firepower.