New RTR 1/16 Type 59 (T-54) from China

[Kaczor]

On a FB group someone posted a video of a new 1/16 model from an unspecified Chinese manufacturer. The Type 59 was a Chinese licensed version of the T-54. Looks like a great alternative to the problematic Hooben kit, if it will be available somewhere.

phpBB [video]

[jhamm]

In June 2024, the 1:16 RC tank model sample produced by a new factory, a Chinese Type 59 medium tank.
The manufacturer's Chinese name is "Hu BuGui"....

Another Video from June 2024:

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[LordLudikrous]

I wonder how easy it would be to convert this to a T-55? The T-55 is like the tankiest of tanks in my view and one I've always rather fancied having so I'll be keeping an eye on this with great interest.

[Raminator]

The Type 59 is basically a straight-up license-built version of the T-54; externally, the only real difference is that it's missing the IR searchlight. Besides the ventilator dome on the turret, most of the changes between the T-54 and T-55 are internal.

This looks neat, the details might be a little rough but having an accessible and affordable T-54/55 surrogate available (with metal upgrades!) blows the Hooben out of the water. Hopefully we'll be seeing more of them soon!

[tankme]

Unfortunately, I asked a dude over in Singapore that found the tank on Taobao and the price is like $550 USD before shipping. Not an affordable alternative to a Hooben I'm afraid.