During WWII, the German army created the Sturmpanzer IV "Brummbar" ("Grizzly Bear") as an attempt to mount an infantry support gun on a mobile platform by fitting a large, box-like superstructure to the proven Panzer IV chassis and adding a stout 150mm Howitzer. Proving over time to be excellent fire support vehicles, 298 Brummbars were produced, in four series.

Tristar throws its hat into the Brummbar arena with this excellent new kit of an early "Stupa" (STUrmPAnzer). The kit features super-sharp flash-free moldings, incredible detail, and indy-link injection-molded tracks. The wheels and tires are molded separately, making painting the tires a breeze. The forward suspension leaf springs feature a bit of molded-in sag to show the stress of the heavy 150mm gun and bulky superstructure. A basic interior is provided for the fighting compartment, as well as a fully detailed gun and breech. Photo-etched metal detail parts are included, along with a length of braided copper cord for the tow cable. Markings are provided for three vehicles that saw action at the massive Battle of Kursk in 1943.