The best model kits in 2026

The best model kits in 2026 depend on the quality, popularity, and other factors of the model. One sixth of 2026 has already passed. Let's take a look at which models are popular this new year? Undoubtedly, the most popular model kit is AB41 Armored Car Model Kit 1/35 | Heavy&Lanmo MM35005. The data is true and accurate, sourced from mainstream e-commerce platforms.

7. Tiger Model 4617 1/35 Russian T-90M MBT Breakthrough III Tank Model Kit

New products in stock in April 2026, many people had already placed orders during the pre-sale.

This kit depicts the T-90M "Proryv-3" tank as it appeared on the frontlines of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in 2023, fitted with its distinctive top armor designed to defend against drone attacks from all directions.

The model is richly detailed, revised from the earlier 4614 T-90M 2017 kit to include updated surface armor features, along with various "Relikt" (soft/hard) and "Kontakt-1" ERA blocks and metal mesh screens for the top and side armor.
  • workable track links and suspension,
  • 4 photo-etched sheets,
  • clear parts,
  • metal tow cables,
  • metal smoke grenade launchers,
  • 3D-printed fuel lines for outstanding realism.

6. 1/35 Panther Ausf.G Late Production (Blitz Super) Model Kit | TAKOM Model

1/35 German Leopard Ausf. G post production assemble model, faithfully restoring the classic posture of this WW2 star tank.
Adopting fast assembly design to streamline the number of parts, combined with metal gun barrels, etched plates, and semi assemble tracks, balancing assembly efficiency and authentic texture.
At a large scale of 1/35, the tank's domineering silhouette is fully displayed. Whether it's novice players of military models or experienced collectors adding collections, they can feel the charm of the 'Black Panther'. Importantly, the price is also very affordable.

Model Features:

  • Adopting fast assembly design to streamline the number of parts, 
  • Combined with metal gun barrels, 
  • Etched plates, 
  • Semi assemble tracks, 
  • Balancing assembly efficiency and authentic texture.
  • Parts:180+.

5. M1296 Stryker ICV-Dragoon w/ESA MWO Upgrade 1/35 Model Kit | Zimi Model

The US Army attempted to improve the firepower of the ICV M1126 Stryker because its 12.7mm heavy machine gun was not effective against modern armored vehicles.
In 2015, the US Army passed an improvement by installing unmanned turrets with programmable airburst 30mm Mk.44 Viper II machine guns on a total of 88 Strykers.
This greatly increased Stryker's firepower while maintaining its mobility.

Model Features:

Compared with the previous M1296, this new Stryker has newly opened MK44 turret, ESA enhanced situational awareness system and sundries.

M1296 Stryker ICV-Dragoon w/ESA MWO Upgrade 1/35 Model Kit | Zimi Model ZM35046

4. Trumpeter 1/25 02506 American LaFRANCE Eagle Fire Pumper Model Kit

The American LaFRANCE Eagle Fire Pumper has become the preferred vehicle for many fire departments in the United States due to its durability, high reliability, and advanced functionality, and is one of the most recognizable fire trucks in the country.

Model Features:

  • After completion, it measures approximately 366.4mm in length, 116.78mm in width, and 122.8mm in height,
  • Contains 326 parts,
  • 5 metal parts and 2 etched pieces (P-E part),
  • 11 plastic panels,
  • Suitable for model enthusiasts with certain experience.

Trumpeter 1/25 02506 American LaFRANCE Eagle Fire Pumper

3. F-4E AUP Phantom II Hellenic Aircraft Model Kit 1/48 | MENG

The F-4E AUP (Avionics Upgrade Program) is a deep upgrade project for the Greek Air Force's aging F-4E fleet.
The upgraded core includes AN/APG-65GY pulse Doppler radar, a brand new glass cockpit, Link 16 data link, compatibility with AIM-120B active mid-range missile and "Litening" aiming pod.
The main equipment is the 338th "Aris" fighter squadron (deployed on Andros Island), painted with the iconic blue and gray "Aegean Ghost" camouflage; The F-4 fleet of the Greek Air Force is one of the last retired ghosts in Europe and holds great historical significance.

Model Features:

  • The cabin details are complete, with a movable boarding ladder;
  • The etched plates on the front and rear cabin instrument panels, seats, and seat belts have all been restored;
  • The leading edge flaps and main flaps can be selected to be retracted/lowered;
  • The belly reducer can be in two positions: open/close;
  • The unique downward turning angle of the horizontal tail is accurately restored, and the details of the tail antenna and nose radar cover are well depicted;
  • The landing gear compartment has a fine internal structure, and the tires have real tread patterns;
  • The structure hierarchy of the engine compartment and nozzle is distinct, and the details of the pipelines are evident.

2. AB40 Armored Car Model Kit 1/35 | Heavy&Lanmo MM35006

Expected inventory on March 10th.

AB40 armored car is a four-wheel armored vehicle launched by Fiat Ansaldo in 1940.
Delivery began in March 1941, and production of only 24 units was halted due to insufficient firepower (turret dual 8mm Breda machine guns) and converted to AB41 (replaced with 20mm Breda machine guns); Adopting X-type transmission with all wheel steering and welded steel armored body.
Mainly used for patrol and battlefield reconnaissance in North African colonies, there are very few existing physical objects, which have great collection value.

Model Features:

  • 1/35 scale highly detailed model kit
  • Can build AB40 or AB41 by selecting different parts,mainly for AB40.
  • Metal spring suspension included
  • Metal gun barrel included
  • Realistic suspension and wheels
  • High-quality decals

Explore this AB40 Armored Car Model Kit 1/35 (Italian Autoblinda) | Heavy&Lanmo MM35006


1. AB41 Armored Car Model Kit 1/35 | Heavy&Lanmo MM35005

Expected inventory on March 10th.

The AB41 armored car was an important wheeled armored car used by Italy during World War II.
The AB41 armored car emerged and, with its excellent mobility and certain firepower configuration, served in the Italian army and participated in military operations in multiple combat areas such as the North African battlefield.
The German and Swedish armies also used this vehicle, and the Italian police force continued to use it after World War II.

Model Features:

  • Can build AB40 or AB41 by selecting different parts,mainly for AB41.
  • Metal gun barrel included
  • Metal spring suspension included
  • High-quality decals
  • Realistic suspension and wheels

Upgrade: Can be paired with NM3501 internal structure,

Heavy&Lanmo NM3501 1/35 Autoblinda AB40/41/43 Armored Car Internal Structure Kit

Explore this AB41 Armored Car Model Kit 1/35 (Italian Autoblinda) | Heavy&Lanmo MM35005

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