Little Willie. World war 1 tank prototype

thingiverse

Little Willie, the pioneering model that paved the way for its successors. Built in Britain around 1915 to break the stalemate of trench warfare during World War I, this revolutionary machine was a game-changer on the battlefield. With meticulous attention to detail, it has been recreated in stunning 3D form using reference photos as a guide. This model is comprised of four distinct pieces: a robust hull, two sturdy tracks, and a front plate that require careful assembly with glue. It can be scaled to any size, making it an ideal addition to wargaming, dioramas, or display collections. As a rough estimate, printing the hull at 80mm in length would yield a scale of approximately 1/60th. Little Willie's unique design and history make it an exciting model for enthusiasts and historians alike. Although it never saw active duty, this pioneering tank was initially intended to be equipped with a turret housing a machine gun, which explains the prominent circular feature on its roof. Painted in battleship grey, Little Willie was classified as a "Landship" - a testament to its innovative design. Today, only one original Little Willie remains, proudly displayed at the Tank Museum in Bovington, Dorset. Its legacy continues to inspire and educate, serving as a reminder of the significant contributions made by this trailblazing machine during World War I.