Developed by the Quartermaster Corps, the jeep and other motor transport vehicles were transferred to the Ordnance Department in August 1942. Despite its lightweight, the jeep could perform a variety of functions, including towing a 37mm antitank gun over a 7% grade. Unencumbered, the jeep could climb a 60% grade, and was capable of attaining speeds in excess of 60-mph on a level highway. It could ford a stream 18-inches deep, even when fully equipped and loaded. It had a cruising range of approximately 300 miles on 15 gallons of gasoline. Operated by a crew of two, the jeep had a space in the rear for equipment or additional personnel.

Perhaps the most iconic military vehicle of all time is the Jeep, officially known in US military parlance 'Truck, 1/4-Ton, 4x4'. With production of 640,000 of these little utility vehicles from 1941-45, it served within the army ranks of Allied countries such as the USA, Britain, France and even the Soviet Union. Powered by a 60hp 4-cylinder engine, the 1/4-Ton Truck was a mere 3.33m long, yet it was remarkably agile over rough terrain. Now, for the first time, Dragon has produced a remarkable 1/72 scale rendition of this famous 4x4 vehicle, and it has just been added to the Dragon Armor collection.

Modelers will understand that it's not easy to make such a diminutive vehicle in such a small scale, but this Dragon Armor vehicle is rich in detail and is an accurate rendition of the original vehicle. Utilizing Dragon's newest technological innovations, the vehicle is reproduced with a sophisticated degree of detail. To boost the appeal of the 1/4-Ton 4x4 Truck even further, the Dragon Armor set features two complete 1/72 scale models of this utility vehicle. Naturally, they feature different detailed markings representing different US Army combat units. These fully built-up and pre-painted miniatures relieve collectors of the task of having to paint such a small-scale model. These 4x4 vehicles may be tiny but they're bristling with detail. This twin set is a real boon to collectors, proving that good things do indeed come in small packages! Sold Out!

Dimensions:
Length: 2-1/2-inches
Width: 1-1/4-inches

Release Date: March 2011

Historical Account: "Screaming Eagles" - The 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), nicknamed the "Screaming Eagles" is an elite airborne division of the United States Army primarily trained for air assault operations. During World War II, the Pathfinders of the 101st Airborne Division led the way on D-Day in the night drop prior to the invasion. They left from RAF North Witham having trained there with the 82nd Airborne Division.

On August 25th, 1944 the division became part of the XVIII Airborne Corps in the First Allied Airborne Army. As part of this formation, the division took part in Operation Market Garden.

During the Battle of the Bulge the 101st, as one of the few forces available to contain the German advance was rushed forward by truck to defend the vital road junction of Bastogne. Famously, Brigadier General Anthony McAuliffe answered the German demand for surrender with the reply "To the German Commander: NUTS! -The American Commander" and the division fought on until the siege was lifted and the German advance halted.