TMN: A Namer 2 & the Trop Messerschmitt E-4 from HobbyBoss in July...

A Namer 2 IFV & the Trop Messerschmitt E4 are the latest releases from HobbyBoss in July... We look at the colours, decals, & built-up kit in our preview...

A Namer 2 & the Trop Messerschmitt E-4 from HobbyBoss in July...

Messerschmitt Bf109E-4/TROP

by Hobbyboss

Model: 81793

1/48th scale

The Messerschmitt Bf 109 E/4 Trop was a tropicalized variant of the iconic German fighter aircraft, specifically adapted for operations in the harsh desert environments of North Africa during World War II. Introduced in 1941, the E/4 Trop was based on the standard E-4 model but featured modifications to improve performance and reliability in extreme heat and dusty conditions. One of the most notable changes was the addition of a large tropical air filter mounted over the supercharger intake, designed to prevent sand and debris from damaging the engine.

The colour schemes presented in this kit

The decals in the box

Masks provided in the kit

In terms of armament and performance, the Bf 109 E/4 Trop retained the formidable firepower of its predecessor. It was equipped with two 7.92 mm MG 17 machine guns mounted above the engine and two 20 mm MG FF/M cannons in the wings. Powered by the Daimler-Benz DB 601Aa engine, the aircraft could reach speeds of up to 570 km/h (354 mph) and had excellent climb rates and agility, making it a formidable opponent in dogfights. The E/4 Trop also featured improved cockpit ventilation and pilot comfort measures to cope with the desert heat.

5 sprues

Model Length: 182mm / Wingspan: 206 mm

More Features

- The kit consists of over 770 parts.

- Detailed fuselage & wing w/accurate design

- Detailed cockpit

The Bf 109 E/4 Trop served primarily with the Luftwaffe’s Afrika Korps and was flown by several notable aces, including Hans-Joachim Marseille. Its deployment in North Africa marked a significant phase in the air war over the Mediterranean, where it faced off against British Hurricanes and later Spitfires. Despite the challenging environment, the E/4 Trop proved to be a reliable and effective fighter, contributing significantly to German air operations in the early stages of the North African campaign.

The kit made up by hobbyboss modellers

I.D.F. Namer-2 IFV

by Hobbyboss

Model: 84525

1/35th scale

The Namer 2 Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) is an advanced evolution of Israel’s original Namer platform, designed to meet the modern battlefield's demands with enhanced protection, firepower, and digital integration. Based on the robust chassis of the Merkava Mark IV main battle tank, the Namer 2 incorporates upgraded armour systems, including modular composite plating and the Trophy Active Protection System (APS), which intercepts incoming anti-tank threats. It features a remote-controlled weapon station (RCWS) typically armed with a 12.7 mm machine gun or a grenade launcher and supports a crew of three plus nine infantry troops. The vehicle also includes improved situational awareness tools, battlefield connectivity, and enhanced mobility powered by a 1,200 hp diesel engine.

The colour scheme presented in this kit

The decals in the box

In service with the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) since 2008, the Namer series—including the Namer 2—has played a key role in replacing older M113 APCs and bolstering infantry survivability in high-threat environments such as urban combat zones and asymmetric warfare scenarios. The Namer 2 has been deployed in various operations, including in Gaza, where its heavy armour and advanced systems proved vital against improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and RPG attacks. Its design reflects lessons learned from past conflicts, emphasising crew protection, modularity for future upgrades, and seamless integration with the IDF’s digital command infrastructure.

19 sprues , upper hull, lower hull and tracks
Model Length: 248.6mm / Width: 141 mm

More Features

- The kit consists of over 700 parts

- Multi-slide moulded lower hull and upper hull

- Individual tracks

- Photo etched parts included

The kit made up by hobbyboss modellers