Diamond T980 Tank Transporter TRC Western Desert 1942 GHQ Cairo

Diamond T980 Tank Transporter TRC Western Desert 1942 GHQ Cairo

New tooling in the Oxford Military series introduces another WWII warhorse in the shape of the Diamond T980 Tank Transporter.

Used extensively by the Allied Armies, the vehicle comprised a 12 ton 6 x 4 axle M20 Diamond T model T980 ballast tractor and companion trailer.

The vehicle originated in the USA, built by the Diamond T Company in Chicago who produced over 6500 between 1941-1945.

Designed as a heavy prime mover for tank transporting, the vehicle caught the attention of the British Army who purchased several thousands of the vehicle, which were subject to a few slight modifications to meet British requirements.

Used extensively by the well-trained Royal Army Service Corps crews, particularly in the rugged terrain of North Africa, the Diamond T980 was invaluable in recovering battle-damaged tanks. It remained in military service right into the 1950s with a few still being used through to 1971.

Comes in an all-over sand colour, as used under desert conditions, with black chassis and interior. The British Formation badge with the gold camel on a black background, the sign of the GHQ in the Middle East including Egypt, is printed on the front wing and to one side of the rear.

The RASC initials feature prominently and note the diagonal white cross on the cab roof, denoting its identity from the air.

Its identification numbers/letters are also printed in black and white on the body. Interestingly enough, after the War, the Army sold off many of the vehicles to heavy haulage and recovery specialists, notably Pickfords and Wynns, so no doubt there is a lot of scope for some civilian liveries on our Oxford model in the future!