The ARL 44 was the first French tank built after World War II.

It’s primary role was to reestablish tank building in France and its many shortcomings meant that only 60 were manufactured and they were quickly phased out of service.

Development of the ARL 44 began immediately after the liberation of France in 1944.

It was part of planning to restore France’s military strength but used many parts designed in secret during the occupation and the experience of France’s defeat in 1940 when its light tanks were easily defeated.

This tank was heavily armed and armoured but was outdated in many ways due to limited French knowledge of modern tank technology.

Although the government recognized this tank’s many shortcomings construction went ahead to give the country’s tank engineers experience, but they saw only limited service with the French army.

This model represents an ARL 44 during the late 1940s.

Combat 72 1/72 kit completed by Leigh Edmonds in June 2014.