British - M3 Lee CDL (Gizmo, Canal Defence Light)

The British M3 Lee CDL (Canal Defence Light), nicknamed “Gizmo,” was a specialised night-assault vehicle developed in secrecy during World War II. Based on the American-built M3 Lee/Grant chassis, the turret was replaced with a large armoured housing containing a powerful carbon-arc searchlight capable of projecting an intense beam over long distances. The light could be rapidly shuttered to create a flickering, dazzling effect intended to disorient enemy troops, illuminate defensive positions, and support night crossings or assaults. The misleading term “Canal Defence Light” was deliberately chosen to conceal the vehicle’s true role.

Unlike the earlier Matilda-based CDL, the M3 Lee CDL retained greater mechanical reliability and mobility, making it better suited for operational use. It saw limited but notable service during the Rhine crossing in 1945 (Operation Plunder), where CDL tanks were used to illuminate riverbanks and enemy positions during nighttime operations. Although never widely deployed in the dramatic assault role originally envisioned, the M3 Lee CDL represents an innovative attempt to integrate psychological warfare and advanced lighting technology into armoured combat during the war.

Multi part resin model.

Printed by Imperator Models on License from Wargame 3D.