About the AS 42 "Sahariana" – WWII Italian Long-Range Desert Truck:

In the Second World War, Italian reconnaissance units patrolled the vast expanse of the North African desert, guarding isolated outposts and warding off incursions by Allied marauders. Operating in an immense and seemingly featureless environment, these units required unique vehicles that provided maneuverability, autonomy, and endurance.

The Camionetta Desertica Model 42 allowed specialized Italian units, the Compagnia Arditi Camionettisti, to venture deep into the desert without sacrificing speed or firepower. Built by SPA-Viberti, the AS.42 (‘Africa Settentrionale’ and its year of introduction) commonly was called the Sahariana, signifying its special development for the particular environ. The 4-wheel steering and flat boat-hull chassis aided maneuverability over sand, and its open compartment allowed room for supplies, weapons, and 3-6 soldiers. Fuel tanks carried 145 liters, but as many as 20 extra fuel cans strapped to the sides provided an additional 400 liters. Thus equipped, the Sahariana could rove across the desert at top speeds of over 50 mph with an incredible operational range of around 1,000 miles. Armed with Breda anti-tank guns or autocannons and machineguns, the Saharianas proved successful in the Libyan and Tunisian campaigns.

Model Statistics:

Designed by Andrea Boninsegna
330 LEGO®, BrickArms®, and Brickmania® elements
2x custom minifigs
Custom printed elements
Full-color printed building instructions
1/35th scale to match other Brickmania kits
Sophomore Skill Level (2-4 years building experience recommended)

All Brickmania® model kits are made of new-condition LEGO® bricks. This model comes disassembled and includes complete printed building instructions. This is a limited-edition kit and production may be discontinued at any time.

This is not a LEGO® Product. LEGO and the LEGO minifigure are trademarks of the LEGO Group, which does not sponsor, authorize, or endorse this product. The LEGO Group is not liable for any loss, injury or damage arising from the use or misuse of this product.