Gecko Models 35GM0154 1/35 Bedford OYD Armadillo Mk.III Armoured Truck Model Kit

Details of Gecko Models 35GM0154 1/35 Bedford OYD Armadillo Mk.III Armoured Truck Model Kit

Basic Information

• Brand: Gecko Models
• Item No.: 35GM0154
• Scale: 1/35
• Subject: WWII British Bedford OYD Armadillo Mk.III improvised armoured truck

Kit Contents

• Plastic parts for Bedford OYD Armadillo Mk.III armoured truck
• Photo-etched detail parts
• Clear parts
• Decal sheet for RAF and Home Guard marking options
• 2 resin/plastic figures (driver and crew soldier)

Key Features

• Faithful reproduction of the improvised steel plate armour structure • Accurate chassis and fighting compartment details
• Comes with optional stowage accessories to enrich diorama effect
• Unassembled & unpainted plastic model kit
• Glue and paint are required and not included

Historical Background

The Bedford OYD Armadillo Mk.III was an emergency improvised armoured vehicle developed by Britain in 1940 amid the fear of German invasion. It was built on the reliable 3-ton Bedford OYD truck chassis and fitted with simple steel armour plates to protect the cab and crew compartment. The Mk.III variant added a powerful 37mm COW automatic gun mounted on the rear cargo bed, alongside machine gun positions, designed to counter enemy paratroopers, landing aircraft and light armoured vehicles.

These vehicles were mainly operated by the Royal Air Force and Home Guard for airfield and key site defence across the British homeland. Its armour only offered limited protection against small arms and shrapnel, yet it was a fast and affordable wartime solution when standard armoured fighting vehicles were in short supply. Production lasted until 1942, and most units were retired once the invasion threat faded, making it a distinctive symbol of British home defence in the early WWII period.