Italeri – 97044 – AS 42 Sahariana

Description:

The Italeri Camionetta AS 42 Sahariana in 1/72 scale is a well-regarded kit originally released in 2007 as a new-tool molding.

The Camionetta AS 42 “Sahariana” was an Italian long-range reconnaissance and patrol vehicle developed during World War II, specifically designed for operations in the harsh North African environment. Based on a modified AB 41 armored car chassis, it lacked armor plating but gained exceptional mobility and endurance. Its low profile, wide wheels, and rear-mounted engine made it highly effective over desert terrain, where it operated similarly to the British LRDG. The AS 42 could carry a crew of three to five and had an impressive range of up to 1,400 km, depending on fuel load and terrain.

Armament varied considerably depending on the mission and availability. Standard weapons included a 20 mm Breda cannon or Solothurn anti-tank rifle, with one or more 8 mm Breda machine guns mounted on swivel pintles. Its stowage racks were often filled with jerry cans, spare tires, and crew gear, giving it a distinctive overloaded appearance. First deployed in 1942, the Sahariana was used primarily by the Raggruppamento Sahariano and other reconnaissance units in Libya and Tunisia. Despite limited production, it proved effective in hit-and-run attacks, convoy raids, and intelligence-gathering missions before the Axis retreat from North Africa.

Kit comes on a single sprue with about 70 parts in tan plastic and features crisp engraved detail, minimal flash, and overall strong fit. Despite its simplicity, the parts are cleanly molded and sharply defined, particularly the 20 mm Breda gun and jerry can racks. The kit includes two options for the windscreen—a covered slit version or a clear one using acetate, although the latter requires careful cutting and test fitting. Modelers have noted that the front wheel wells are open to the chassis, which can be patched easily with styrene if desired. Another detail point is the spare wheel, molded directly into the vehicle’s nose—some builders prefer to remove and replace it for added realism. The machine gun mount may need slight adjustment to avoid interfering with the windscreen.

Decals are well printed and offer two vehicles from Tunisia in 1943, with basic but useful markings including a dashboard dial decal. Italeri also includes stowage detail and light interior parts, though these benefit from extra painting and weathering. The gun barrel and openings respond well to being drilled for added realism. While a few minor fixes are needed, overall this is a straightforward and satisfying build, ideal for anyone interested in North African campaigns. It’s a strong value considering the subject rarity and the quality of the tooling.