INFORMATION
At this year's Shizuoka Hobby Show, it was announced that Japanese model manufacturer Bellfine will be developing products based on the magnificent world of "TANKHEAD," created by Malaysian-born and raised concept artist Emerson Tang! A group of bizarre weapons that inherit elements of real-world weapons and are active on the battlefields of another world with a different history will be released as assembly-required plastic models. The first item in the series is "TYPE 33 HEIKEGANI," a multi-legged tank-type "Tankhead" with six legs!
■What is the world of 'TANKHEAD'?
On the planet Arde, an endless world war rages between three factions: the Great Kaizeria Empire, the Yamaichi Territory, and the Britonica Alliance. In this world, where tank tracks have never been invented, trench warfare has brought the battle to a stalemate, with only casualties piling up. The turning point in this stalemate is "TANKHEAD," created using unknown technology discovered through the analysis of ancient ruins.
With the advent of walking armored combat weapons that could cross trenches and trample the front lines of defense, the war entered a new phase.
From the world of "TANKHEAD," the "TYPE 33 HEIKEGANI," a medium-sized direct-attack tankhead developed by the Yamaichi territory, is being commercialized as a plastic model kit by Bellfine! The 1/48 scale kit is scheduled for release in 2026. Here, we'll show you photos of the completed sample that was displayed at the hobby show to give you a glimpse of its design.
Its six-legged structure demonstrated excellent traction on uneven and soft ground, achieving success in defensive lines and ambushes.
It is equipped with a 120mm cannon as its main armament. The turret is topped with 10 anti-tank head missiles, the right arm has a 20mm multi-barrel rotary cannon, and the front of the fuselage is equipped with a 7.7mm minigun.
Designed incorporating elements of Japanese tanks and samurai armor, this model features detailed joints designed for actual movement and military-inspired armor that would look great with various painting finishes such as heavy weathering and chipping. The gritty world it creates, where you can almost hear the sound of steel creaking, is sure to inspire your model-making desires!
TANKHEAD Series 1/48 Scale Plastic Model Kit TYPE 33 HEIKEGANI
- Plastic model
- 1/48 scale
- Distributed by: Bellfine
- Price undecided
- Reservations are scheduled to begin this summer.
- Scheduled for release at the end of 2026
*The image shows a prototype that has been assembled and painted. The actual product may differ slightly.