Minifigure – Soviet Paratrooper Anti-Tank Specialist (VDV Tank Hunter) during World War II (LEGO Compatible)

The Figure: WWII Soviet Paratrooper Anti-Tank Specialist (VDV Tank Hunter)

This toy minifigure represents an Anti-Tank Soldier of the Soviet Airborne Forces (VDV) during World War II. He is the heavy specialist of the paratrooper squad, tasked with engaging enemy armor.

• Uniform (Amoeba Camouflage): He wears the distinctive “Ameba” (Amoeba) Camouflage Suit (Maskirovochnyy Kombinezon). This pattern features large, irregular brown shapes on a tan/khaki background, which was standard issue for Soviet scouts and paratroopers to provide concealment in the field.

• Tactical Gear (Anti-Tank Loadout):

  • Chest Pouch: The defining feature of this figure is the large, rectangular Canvas Pouch strapped to his chest. This type of pouch was typically used to carry heavy Anti-Tank Hand Grenades (like the RPG-40 or RPG-43) or ammunition for anti-tank rifles, allowing him to threaten armored vehicles at close range.

  • Combat Knife: Attached to his belt on his left side is a sheath for an NR-40 Combat Knife (Nozh Razvedchika). This famous “Scout’s Knife” was standard issue for Soviet special forces and paratroopers, used for utility and hand-to-hand combat.

  • Insignia: He displays the Sky Blue Collar Tabs (Petlitsy) at the neck, identifying him as a member of the Airborne troops.

• Equipment (Back): The back printing shows a diagonal leather strap, likely for slinging a heavy weapon (such as a PTRD anti-tank rifle) or a satchel. He also carries a Canteen and a small utility pouch on his belt.

• Appearance: The face print features a stern, focused expression with thick eyebrows, depicting a serious soldier prepared for the dangerous task of hunting tanks.

Historical Background: Soviet Paratroopers often operated without heavy artillery support, making them vulnerable to German tanks. To counter this, designated Anti-Tank Specialists were equipped with portable weaponry. While some carried long anti-tank rifles (PTRD/PTRS), others relied on bravery and heavy Hollow-Charge Grenades (RPG-43) to disable tanks from close range. The NR-40 knife seen on his belt became a legendary symbol of the Soviet soldier, so much so that “knife fighting” was a standard part of VDV training.