The construction process begins with a sturdy steel box frame and durable pneumatic rubber wheels. Next, an electric motor and a chain drive system are carefully installed, featuring realistic tank treads. While the techniques employed bear resemblance to ND Woodworking Art's previous tank build, this endeavor is executed on a grander scale. In no time, a fully functional chassis is assembled and promptly taken for a test drive around the neighborhood.
The next step involves the construction of a metal frame to form the superstructure of the tank. The Swedish STRV 103 is a unique tank from the Cold War era, known for its turretless design. This innovative design not only provided the tank with a lower profile compared to other tanks but also made it easier to hide and more difficult to target. For the ND Woodworking Art team, these distinct characteristics greatly simplify their build process while maintaining the essence of the original design.
After completing the superstructure frame, the team constructs the outer shell using wooden panels precisely cut to match the profile of the STRV 103. This process resembles assembling a massive three-dimensional jigsaw puzzle. With each piece, the tank gradually takes form while the skilled craftsmen meticulously create wooden accessories such as gas tanks and shovels.
With the completion of the tank, the father and his son embark on a joyride. The front hydraulics lower, facilitating easy ingress and egress. As an electric vehicle, albeit with limited range, it effortlessly traverses roads and flat grasslands. However, it cannot crush cars, climb stairs, or maneuver like an actual tank. While on the road, the father and son cheerfully wave at passersby.
Source: ND – Woodworking Art
