Fardier UNAC: precision and engineering in miniature

No, it's not the real thing, but a Promodels 1/24 scale model measuring just 12 cm!

A small, rustic, highly mobile, air-transportable, air-droppable, heliportable vehicle with high projection and transport capacity.
Its missions: to lighten the load of disembarked combatants, to assist rapid deployment after airdrop or assault landing, and to carry out reconnaissance missions.

The Fardier, also known as the “Rider” (Rapide Intervention Droppable Equipment for Raiders), meets the requirements of the airborne troops of the 11th parachute brigade and French special forces. Designed to quickly grasp the terrain, it facilitates logistical movements and provides support and command in areas inaccessible to conventional vehicles (except in heavily snow-covered areas). The system also reinforces the self-defense of deployment zones and enables rapid air deployment, despite its limited range. According to the 2019-2025 military programming law, 300 vehicles will be delivered by 2030 for the 11th parachute brigade and the Special Operations Command.
The passenger compartment is protected by a folding roll-bar system, mounted on a welded steel tubular chassis. A “ski” (actually protective plates) protects the vehicle's undercarriage, enabling it to hit hard off-road, but offering no protection against mines or IEDs. The vehicle can be fitted with two FN Minimi or MAG light machine guns.The turning radius is very tight, making it easy to get around in difficult environments, especially wooded ones. This quality is further enhanced by the independent locking of each wheel and the engine braking system, which even makes it possible to negotiate steps!
Generally speaking, the load/size ratio is extremely flattering: the 1,000 kg machine can carry a load of 900 kg, almost double its unladen weight. The 200 kg trailer can carry a load of 350 kg.
RIDER, which “has no electronics, making it quick and easy to repair in the event of breakdown during operation”.

The model of the Fardier UNAC, made by Promodels, perfectly illustrates the alliance between modern engineering and traditional know-how. Its manufacture is based on a multi-stage process, guaranteeing a faithful replica in both aesthetic and technical terms.
The design of our model allows us to precisely define the interfaces between the resin and metal parts, and to prepare the files needed to manufacture the molds and metal parts.
For resin parts, high-precision silicone molds are created to ensure optimal demolding and to preserve fine detail. The resin used is chosen for its dimensional stability and strength, essential to guarantee the model's durability. The vacuum molding process eliminates air bubbles, resulting in a smooth, homogeneous surface on each part.
Certain details are reproduced in metal to faithfully imitate the original elements, adapting to the requirements of the reduced scale while ensuring excellent resistance.
The integration of resin and metal parts requires meticulous attention to detail. Assembly is achieved through a combination of technical bonding and precise fastening. Each stage of assembly undergoes rigorous quality control, to ensure that parts conform to initial specifications and guarantee optimum structural cohesion.
The final phase consists of finishing the model. After meticulous sanding, paint and protective varnish are applied to enhance the technical details.
This manufacturing process testifies to Promodels' expertise, combining modern production techniques with meticulous attention to detail to deliver a UNAC Fardier model of remarkable fidelity.