Description

The WW2 British Army Submachine Gunner minifigure pays tribute to the soldiers who carried compact firepower into some of the fiercest battles of the war. Armed with the Sten gun—a lightweight, mass-produced weapon designed for close-quarters combat—these gunners became crucial during urban fighting and raids. Introduced in 1941 after the costly evacuation at Dunkirk, the Sten was intended as an affordable and easily manufactured alternative to heavier firearms. Though simple in design, it proved highly effective in the hands of trained troops.

Submachine gunners saw extensive action across multiple theatres. In North Africa, they provided essential suppressive fire against Axis strongpoints during mobile desert warfare. Their true value, however, shone during the campaigns in Europe. At D-Day and in the bitter fighting across Normandy’s bocage countryside, Sten gunners advanced through hedgerows and villages where close-range firepower meant survival. British paratroopers also favoured the Sten during Operation Market Garden in 1944, where airborne forces attempted to seize bridges in the Netherlands. Though the operation faltered, the role of submachine gunners in close-quarters defence was vital in holding positions far longer than expected.

Beyond frontline use, the Sten became a favourite among resistance fighters across occupied Europe due to its simple design. Britain supplied countless Stens to the French Resistance, Yugoslav Partisans, and even agents of the Special Operations Executive (SOE), who carried them on sabotage missions behind enemy lines. For regular British infantry, the submachine gunner often spearheaded assaults, clearing trenches, bunkers, and houses with bursts of rapid fire that heavier rifles could not match.

This minifigure embodies the grit and adaptability of these soldiers, with authentic gear details that highlight the iconic silhouette of the Sten gunner. Collectors will appreciate its representation of the daring individuals who helped Britain transition from desperate defence in 1940 to offensive strikes deep into enemy-held territory. It’s not just a figure—it’s a piece of history that recalls the ingenuity and bravery that turned the tide of war.

Includes:

• 1 WW2 British Army Submachine Gunner minifigure disassembled
• 1 Replica 9mm Sten submachine gun.

Pcs: 9

Age rating: 14+