Light anti aircraft artillery

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  1. Trux

    Trux 21 AG

    LIGHT ANTI AIRCRAFT ARTILLERY

    Light anti aircraft artillery was intended for use against low flying aircraft, both with forward
    formations and in base areas. In forward areas they became increasingly self propelled so as
    to give full protection to mobile troops. They were underemployed much of the time.



    LIGHT ANTI AIRCRAFT REGIMENT RA

    Headquarters of a Divisional LAA Regiment. War Establishment II/179/2. November 1943
    Headquarters of a Corps LAA Regiment. War Establishment III/170/1. July 1942.
    Light Anti Aircraft Battery. War Establishment III/171/2. December 1943
    Light Anti Aircraft Battery Mobile. War establishment XIV/455/1. October 1944.
    Light Anti Aircraft Battery Mobile. War establishment XIV/459/1. March 1945
    Light Anti Aircraft Battery PDA. War Establishment XIV/451/1. June 1944


    HEADQUARTERS of a LIGHT ANTI AIRCRAFT REGIMENT
    WE II/179/2 November 1943
    WE III/170/1 July 1942 is identical except that a chaplain, batman/driver and a car 2seater 4 X 2 are attached.

    The nature of Light Anti Aircraft units meant that the Regimental Headquarters was responsible for the administration of batteries, and for their deployment, but could do little in the way of fire control since low flying aircraft did not give time for central control. The Regiment could have Light Warning Radar sets which gave early warning of approaching aircraft and this information could be sent to the gun batteries. It was also possible to use IFF (Identification Friend or Foe) to identify enemy aircraft, and there were links with the wider air defence system.

    Lieutenant Colonel, Commanding Officer
    Major, Second in Command
    Captain, Adjutant
    Subaltern
    Quartermaster

    Regimental Serjeant Major
    serjeant clerk (RA clerks section)
    serjeant clerk for QM duties

    bombardier clerk
    2 X clerk
    vehicle mechanic
    11 X driver operator
    2 X bombardier driver operator
    2 X lance bombardier driver operator

    6 X batman driver
    driver IC
    medical officer’s orderly
    4 X motorcyclist
    sanitary dutyman
    storeman

    plus attached
    instrument mechanic RS
    Medical Officer
    2 X cooks ACC
    Total 44

    5 X motorcycle
    1 X car 4seater 4 X 2
    2 X car 5cwt 4 X 4
    1 X 15cwt GS
    5 X 15cwt FFW
    1 X 15cwt Office
    2 X 3ton lorry 4 X 4 GS
    1 X water trailer, 180 gallons

    Organisation for Movement
    Motorcycle 1
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 2
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 3
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 4
    motorcyclist

    Motorcycle 5
    Subaltern

    Car 4 seater 4 X 2
    Lieutenant Colonel, Adjutant, batman driver

    Car 15cwt 4 X 4
    Major, batman driver
    Car 15cwt 4 X 4
    Quartermaster, clerk

    15cwt truck GS
    Medical Officer, medical officer’s orderly, batman driver
    Carries medical stores

    15cwt Office truck
    Regimental Serjeant Major, serjeant clerk, 2 X clerk, batman driver
    Carries office equipment
    Note that the two clerks are trained as drivers IC

    15cwt FFW 1
    3 X driver operator
    Carries a wireless set No 22
    This vehicle for rear link
    15cwt FFW 2
    3 X driver operator
    Carries a wireless set No 22
    This vehicle for command and forward link
    15cwt FFW 3
    3 X driver operator
    Carries a wireless set No 22
    This vehicle detached to a battery
    15cwt FFW 4
    3 X driver operator
    Carries a wireless set No 22
    This vehicle detached to a battery
    15cwt FFW 5
    3 X driver operator
    Carries a wireless set No 22
    This vehicle detached to a battery

    3ton 4 X 4 GS 1
    instrument mechanic RS, sanitary dutyman, batman driver, vehicle mechanic
    Carries a 1260 kw generator
    Carries a bren lmg
    Carries baggage, anti gas reserves, blankets, petrol, reserve SAA ammunition
    Draws a water trailer
    Note that the instrument mechanic is attached from divisional signals.
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 2
    2 X cook, storeman, serjeant (QM duties), batman driver, driver IC
    Carries a bren lmg and PIAT
    Carries cooking gear, rations, officers mess baggage

    Weapons
    14 X pistol .38”
    8 X rifle .303”
    18 X sten gun
    2 X Bren gun
    1 X PIAT

    Officers, warrant officers, motor cyclists and Bren lmg detachments are armed with pistols.
    One man per vehicle is armed with a Sten gun
    All others are armed with a rifle.

    Any Light Anti Aircraft Regiment (mobile) may have the following attached
    15cwt Wireless Light Warning 1
    bombardier operator fire control, 2 X lance bombardier operator fire control
    Carries a Light Warning set, Radar AA No4 MkIII
    Carries a wireless set No 22
    Note that all three personnel are trained as driver IC
    15cwt truck GS 1
    driver IC

    15cwt Wireless Light Warning 2
    bombardier operator fire control, 2 X lance bombardier operator fire control
    Carries a Light Warning set, Radar AA No4 MkIII
    Carries a wireless set No 22
    Note that all three personnel are trained as driver IC
    15cwt truck GS 1
    driver IC

    A REME corporal telecommunications mechanic is attached for the maintenance of radar AA No4 MkIII sets.

    Each vehicle carries two rifles and one sten gun.


    Light AA Regiment Detachment Royal Signals
    This detachment is part of H troop of B Squadron, Divisional Signals.

    15cwt wireless house
    corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle for rear link

    A corporal instrument mechanic, 3 X electrician and 4 X 1260 watt charging sets are carried in the transport of the Light AA Regiment.



    LIGHT ANTI AIRCRAFT BATTERY RA
    War Establishment III/171/2. December1943
    Major
    4 X Captain
    7 X Subaltern

    Battery Serjeant Major
    battery quartermaster serjeant
    21 X serjeant
    3 X lance serjeant
    15 X bombardier
    25 X lance bombardier
    144 X gunner

    Attached
    3 X corporal cook ACC
    7 X cook ACC
    electrician, signals RS

    41 X tradesman
    bombardier clerk, pay duties
    bombardier clerk
    4 X clerk
    19 X driver mechanic
    8 X driver operator
    equipment repairer (trained as driver IC)
    3 X gun fitter
    4 X vehicle mechanic

    12 X batman driver
    butchery dutyman
    11 X drivers IC
    144 X gun detachments
    3 X medical orderly (trained as driver IC)
    7 X motorcyclist
    sanitary dutyman (trained as driver IC)
    4 X storeman (trained as driver IC)
    4 X water dutyman (trained as driver IC)

    20 X motorcycle
    8 X car 5cwt 4 X 4
    5 X 15cwt GS
    3 X 15cwt water
    1 X 15cwt FFW
    12 X 3ton 4 X 4
    18 X Tractor LAA
    1 X water trailer, 180 gallons.

    22 X Bren gun
    4 X PIAT
    19 X signal pistol
    18 X Bofors LAA gun


    Headquarters
    Major
    Captain
    Subaltern

    Battery Serjeant Major
    battery quartermaster serjeant
    3 X bombardier
    lance bombardier
    12 X gunner

    Attached
    cook ACC
    electrician, signals RS

    8 X tradesman
    bombardier clerk, pay duties (trained as driver IC)
    bombardier clerk (trained as driver IC)
    clerk (trained as driver IC)
    driver mechanic
    bombardier driver operator, in charge of signals
    driver operator
    equipment repairer (trained as driver IC)
    vehicle mechanic

    3 X batman driver
    butchery dutyman
    2 X drivers IC
    4 X motorcyclist
    sanitary dutyman (trained as driver IC)
    storeman (trained as driver IC)
    water dutyman (trained as driver IC)

    5 X motorcycle
    2 X car 5cwt 4 X 4
    2 X 15cwt GS
    1 X 15cwt FFW
    3 X 3ton 4 X 4
    1 X water trailer, 180 gallons.

    1 X Bren gun
    1 X PIAT
    1 X signal pistol

    Motorcycle 1
    Battery Serjeant Major
    Motorcycle 2
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 3
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 4
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 5
    motorcyclist


    Car 15cwt 4 X 4 1
    Subaltern, batman driver
    Car 15cwt 4 X 4 2
    Captain, batman driver

    15cwt truck GS 1
    battery quartermaster serjeant, cook ACC, water dutyman, butchery dutyman
    Carries cooking gear and rations
    15cwt truck GS 2
    sanitary dutyman, equipment repairer, vehicle mechanic
    Carries PIAT

    15cwt FFW 1
    Major, 2 X driver operator, batman driver
    Carries a wireless set No 22
    15cwt FFW 2
    3 X driver operator
    Carries a wireless set No 22
    This vehicle from regimental headquarters

    3ton 4 X 4 GS 1
    clerk pay duties, driver mechanic
    Carries anti gas reserves, blankets, reserve SAA ammunition
    Carries 696 rounds of 40mm ammunition in 29 boxes
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 2
    2 X clerk, driver IC
    Carries 1032 rounds 40mm ammunition in 43 boxes
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 3
    electrician RS, storeman, driver IC
    Carries Bren lmg
    Carries 1260 watt charging engine
    Carries petrol and technical stores
    Tows a water tank trailer
    Note that the electrician and charging engine are from RS detachment.

    3 X Troop each
    Headquarters
    Captain
    2 X Subaltern
    serjeant
    3 X lance serjeant
    2 X lance bombardier
    8 X gunner
    corporal cook ACC
    2 X cook ACC

    clerk
    2 X driver operator
    gun fitter
    vehicle mechanic
    3 X batman driver
    3 X drivers IC
    medical orderly (trained as driver IC)
    motorcyclist
    storeman (trained as driver IC)
    water dutyman (trained as driver IC)

    5 X motorcycle
    2 X car 5cwt 4 X 4
    1 X 15cwt GS
    1 X 15cwt water
    3 X 3ton 4 X 4

    1 X Bren gun
    1 X PIAT


    Motorcycle 1
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 2
    Subaltern
    Motorcycle 3
    serjeant
    Motorcycle 4
    gun fitter
    Motorcycle 5
    clerk (troop commanders assistant)

    Car 15cwt 4 X 4 1
    Subaltern, batman driver
    Car 15cwt 4 X 4 2
    Captain, batman driver

    15cwt truck GS
    corporal cook ACC, storeman, batman driver
    Carries cooking gear and rations
    Carries PIAT
    15cwt truck water
    water dutyman, vehicle mechanic

    3ton 4 X 4 GS 1
    medical orderly, driver IC
    Carries anti gas reserves, blankets
    Carries 528 rounds of 40mm ammunition in 22 boxes
    Carries Bren lmg
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 2
    2 X cook ACC, driver IC
    Carries gun stores, baggage and blankets for three sub sections.
    Carries 216 rounds of 40mm ammunition in 9 boxes
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 3
    2 X driver operator, driver IC
    Carries gun stores, baggage and blankets for three sub sections.
    Carries 216 rounds of 40mm ammunition in 9 boxes

    Section Light AA Tractor, 4 X 4 1
    serjeant, 8 X gun numbers, driver mechanic
    Carries 192 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a 40mm Bofors gun

    Section Light AA Tractor, 4 X 4 2
    serjeant, 8 X gun numbers, driver mechanic
    Carries 192 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a 40mm Bofors gun

    Section Light AA Tractor, 4 X 4 3
    serjeant, 8 X gun numbers, driver mechanic
    Carries 192 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a 40mm Bofors gun

    Section Light AA Tractor, 4 X 4 4
    serjeant, 8 X gun numbers, driver mechanic
    Carries 192 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a 40mm Bofors gun

    Section Light AA Tractor, 4 X 4 5
    serjeant, 8 X gun numbers, driver mechanic
    Carries 192 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a 40mm Bofors gun

    Section Light AA Tractor, 4 X 4 6
    serjeant, 8 X gun numbers, driver mechanic
    Carries 192 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a 40mm Bofors gun

    NOTES:
    Ammunition includes 48 rounds per gun anti tank ammunition.
    One car 5cwt may be issued instead of 2 motorcycles at headquarters.
    One officer and six men per troop will be rained in anti gas duties and decontamination work.

    In an Armoured Division Troop Headquarters will have one 15cwt FFW instead of one car 5 cwt.



    LIGHT ANTI AIRCRAFT BATTERY (Mobile) RA
    War Establishment XIV/455/1. October 1944.
    This establishment was for a battery headquarters and two troops, each of 6 X 40mm AA guns. This is a reduction from the previous three troops. The establishment contains variations for
    a Corp LAA Battery with all guns towed by a 4 X 4 tractor.
    an infantry division LAA Battery with one troop of SP guns
    an armoured division LAA Battery with all guns SP.


    Major
    3 X Captain
    4 X Subaltern

    3 X Battery Serjeant Major
    battery quartermaster serjeant
    12 X serjeant
    12 X bombardier
    17 X lance bombardier
    86 X gunner

    Attached
    3 X officers mess cook ACC
    5 X cook ACC

    41 X tradesman
    bombardier clerk, pay duties
    bombardier clerk
    3 X clerk (one trained as driver IC)
    13 X driver mechanic
    6 X driver operator
    equipment repairer (trained as driver IC)
    2 X gun fitter
    3 X vehicle mechanic (trained as driver IC)

    9 X batman driver
    butchery dutyman
    7 X drivers IC
    84 X gun detachments
    5 X motorcyclist
    2 X medical offices orderly (trained as driver IC)
    sanitary dutyman (trained as driver IC)
    3 X storeman (trained as driver IC)
    3 X water dutyman (trained as driver IC)

    14 X motorcycle
    6 X car 5cwt 4 X 4
    4 X 15cwt GS
    2 X 15cwt water
    1 X 15cwt FFW
    8 X 3ton 4 X 4
    12 X Tractor LAA
    2 X 10cwt trailer
    1 X ton trailer

    22 X Bren gun
    4 X PIAT
    19 X signal pistol
    18 X Bofors LAA gun


    Headquarters
    Major
    Captain
    Subaltern

    Battery Serjeant Major
    battery quartermaster serjeant
    3 X bombardier
    lance bombardier
    12 X gunner

    Attached
    cook ACC
    electrician, signals RS

    8 X tradesman
    bombardier clerk, pay duties (trained as driver IC)
    bombardier clerk (trained as driver IC)
    clerk (trained as driver IC)
    driver mechanic
    bombardier driver operator, in charge of signals
    driver operator
    equipment repairer (trained as driver IC)
    vehicle mechanic

    3 X batman driver
    butchery dutyman
    2 X drivers IC
    4 X motorcyclist
    sanitary dutyman (trained as driver IC)
    storeman (trained as driver IC)
    water dutyman (trained as driver IC)

    5 X motorcycle
    2 X car 5cwt 4 X 4
    2 X 15cwt GS
    1 X 15cwt FFW
    3 X 3ton 4 X 4
    1 X water trailer, 180 gallons.

    1 X Bren gun
    1 X PIAT
    1 X signal pistol

    Motorcycle 1
    Battery Serjeant Major
    Motorcycle 2
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 3
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 4
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 5
    motorcyclist


    Car 15cwt 4 X 4 1
    Subaltern, batman driver
    Car 15cwt 4 X 4 2
    Captain, batman driver

    15cwt truck GS 1
    battery quartermaster serjeant, cook ACC, water dutyman, butchery dutyman
    Carries cooking gear and rations
    15cwt truck GS 2
    sanitary dutyman, equipment repairer, vehicle mechanic
    Carries PIAT

    15cwt FFW 1
    Major, 2 X driver operator, batman driver
    Carries a wireless set No 22
    15cwt FFW 2
    3 X driver operator
    Carries a wireless set No 22
    This vehicle from regimental headquarters

    3ton 4 X 4 GS 1
    clerk pay duties, driver mechanic
    Carries anti gas reserves, blankets, reserve SAA ammunition
    Carries 696 rounds of 40mm ammunition in 29 boxes
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 2
    2 X clerk, driver IC
    Carries 1032 rounds 40mm ammunition in 43 boxes
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 3
    electrician RS, storeman, driver IC
    Carries Bren lmg
    Carries 1260 watt charging engine
    Carries petrol and technical stores
    Tows a water tank trailer

    2 X Troop each
    Headquarters
    Captain
    2 X Subaltern
    serjeant
    3 X lance serjeant
    2 X lance bombardier
    8 X gunner
    corporal cook ACC
    2 X cook ACC

    clerk
    2 X driver operator
    gun fitter
    vehicle mechanic
    3 X batman driver
    3 X drivers IC
    medical orderly (trained as driver IC)
    motorcyclist
    storeman (trained as driver IC)
    water dutyman (trained as driver IC)

    5 X motorcycle
    2 X car 5cwt 4 X 4
    1 X 15cwt GS
    1 X 15cwt water
    3 X 3ton 4 X 4

    1 X Bren gun
    1 X PIAT

    Motorcycle 1
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 2
    Subaltern
    Motorcycle 3
    serjeant
    Motorcycle 4
    gun fitter
    Motorcycle 5
    clerk (troop commanders assistant)

    Car 15cwt 4 X 4 1
    Subaltern, batman driver
    Car 15cwt 4 X 4 2
    Captain, batman driver

    15cwt truck GS
    corporal cook ACC, storeman, batman driver
    Carries cooking gear and rations
    Carries PIAT
    15cwt truck water
    water dutyman, vehicle mechanic

    3ton 4 X 4 GS 1
    medical orderly, driver IC
    Carries anti gas reserves, blankets
    Carries 528 rounds of 40mm ammunition in 22 boxes
    Carries Bren lmg
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 2
    2 X cook ACC, driver IC
    Carries gun stores, baggage and blankets for three sub sections.
    Carries 216 rounds of 40mm ammunition in 9 boxes
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 3
    2 X driver operator, driver IC
    Carries gun stores, baggage and blankets for three sub sections.
    Carries 216 rounds of 40mm ammunition in 9 boxes

    Sub Section Light AA Tractor, 4 X 4 1
    serjeant, 8 X gun numbers, driver mechanic
    Carries 192 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a 40mm Bofors gun

    Sub Section Light AA Tractor, 4 X 4 2
    serjeant, 8 X gun numbers, driver mechanic
    Carries 192 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a 40mm Bofors gun

    Sub Section Light AA Tractor, 4 X 4 3
    serjeant, 8 X gun numbers, driver mechanic
    Carries 192 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a 40mm Bofors gun

    Sub Section Light AA Tractor, 4 X 4 4
    serjeant, 8 X gun numbers, driver mechanic
    Carries 192 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a 40mm Bofors gun

    Sub Section Light AA Tractor, 4 X 4 5
    serjeant, 8 X gun numbers, driver mechanic
    Carries 192 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a 40mm Bofors gun

    Sub Section Light AA Tractor, 4 X 4 6
    serjeant, 8 X gun numbers, driver mechanic
    Carries 192 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a 40mm Bofors gun

    NOTES:
    Ammunition includes 48 rounds per gun anti tank ammunition.
    One car 5cwt may be issued instead of 2 motorcycles at headquarters.
    One officer and six men per troop will be trained in anti gas duties and decontamination work.

    In an Armoured Division Troop Headquarters will have one 15cwt FFW instead of one car 5 cwt 4 X 4.


    SELF PROPELLED TROOP.
    Sub sections were equipped with Morris C9 4 X 4 self propelled 40mm Bofors guns and a 15cwt 4 X 4 truck to carry personnel and ammunition which could not be carried on the SP vehicle. There was no change in he personnel for a self propelled troop. The drivers for the extra 15cwt trucks were found by training two members of the gun crew as driver IC.

    Motorcycle 1
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 2
    Subaltern
    Motorcycle 3
    serjeant
    Motorcycle 4
    gun fitter
    Motorcycle 5
    clerk (troop commanders assistant)

    Car 15cwt 4 X 4 1
    Subaltern, batman driver
    Car 15cwt 4 X 4 2
    Captain, batman driver

    15cwt truck GS
    corporal cook ACC, storeman, batman driver
    Carries cooking gear and rations
    Carries PIAT
    15cwt truck water
    water dutyman, vehicle mechanic

    3ton 4 X 4 GS 1
    medical orderly, driver IC
    Carries anti gas reserves, blankets
    Carries 528 rounds of 40mm ammunition in 22 boxes
    Carries Bren lmg

    3ton 4 X 4 Tractor LAA (CMP Ford) 1
    2 X cook ACC, driver IC
    Carries gun stores, baggage and blankets for three sub sections.
    Carries 216 rounds of 40mm ammunition in 9 boxes
    Tows a 180 gallon water trailer
    3ton 4 X 4 Tractor LAA (CMP Ford) 2
    2 X driver operator, driver IC
    Carries gun stores, baggage and blankets for three sub sections.
    Carries 216 rounds of 40mm ammunition in 9 boxes

    Note: Two 3 ton 4 X 4 GS lorries were replaced by two 3ton 4 X 4 Tractor LAA (Ford). These were CMP LAA Tractors which had a winch and stowage for 40mm Bofors ammunition. The winch was essential for recovering the Morris C9 SP LAA guns from sites. The Morris a power take off instead of a winch.

    Sub Section
    Self Propelled LAA Gun, 4 X 4
    serjeant, 2 X gun number, driver mechanic
    Carries 120 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a 40mm Bofors gun
    Carries a Bren lmg
    15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    bombardier, 4 X gun number
    Carries 72 rounds of 40mm ammunition

    Sub Section
    Self Propelled LAA Gun, 4 X 4
    serjeant, 2 X gun number, driver mechanic
    Carries 120 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a 40mm Bofors gun
    Carries a Bren lmg
    15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    bombardier, 4 X gun number
    Carries 72 rounds of 40mm ammunition

    Sub Section
    Self Propelled LAA Gun, 4 X 4
    serjeant, 2 X gun number, driver mechanic
    Carries 120 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a 40mm Bofors gun
    Carries a Bren lmg
    15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    bombardier, 4 X gun number
    Carries 72 rounds of 40mm ammunition

    Sub Section
    Self Propelled LAA Gun, 4 X 4
    serjeant, 2 X gun number, driver mechanic
    Carries 120 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a 40mm Bofors gun
    Carries a Bren lmg
    15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    bombardier, 4 X gun number
    Carries 72 rounds of 40mm ammunition

    Sub Section
    Self Propelled LAA Gun, 4 X 4
    serjeant, 2 X gun number, driver mechanic
    Carries 120 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a 40mm Bofors gun
    Carries a Bren lmg
    15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    bombardier, 4 X gun number
    Carries 72 rounds of 40mm ammunition

    Sub Section
    Self Propelled LAA Gun, 4 X 4
    serjeant, 2 X gun number, driver mechanic
    Carries 120 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a 40mm Bofors gun
    Carries a Bren lmg
    15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    bombardier, 4 X gun number
    Carries 72 rounds of 40mm ammunition

    Morris C9 4 X 4.
    The Morris C9 4 X 4 chassis was used to mount a modified 40mm anti aircraft gun. This carried a crew of four. The first 350 self propelled 40mm guns were ordered together with 350 Predictor vehicles which were on C8 chassis and also carried four men. A second order included fewer predictors than guns and the final order included no predictors at all. It is assumed that the ammunition and gun numbers originally carried on the predictor vehicles were now carried in a 15cwt 4 X 4 GS truck. The gun was fitted with a joy stick control which allowed one man to control bearing and elevation.



    ARMOURED SELF PROPELLED TROOP
    Crusader self propelled 40mm anti aircraft gun.
    No separate establishment has been found for this troop. The Crusader chassis and hull carried an armoured mounting for a 40mm anti aircraft gun. The mounting was as for the Morris C9 and was power operated. Only one man was required to aim and fire the gun. No predictors were provided.

    Motorcycle 1
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 2
    Subaltern
    Motorcycle 3
    serjeant
    Motorcycle 4
    gun fitter
    Motorcycle 5
    clerk (troop commanders assistant)

    Car 15cwt 4 X 4
    Subaltern, batman driver


    15cwt truck GS
    corporal cook ACC, storeman, batman driver
    Carries cooking gear and rations
    Carries PIAT
    15cwt truck water
    water dutyman, vehicle mechanic

    15cwt FFW
    Troop Commander, batman driver
    Carries a wireless set No 22

    3ton 4 X 4 GS 1
    medical orderly, driver IC
    Carries anti gas reserves, blankets
    Carries 528 rounds of 40mm ammunition in 22 boxes
    Carries Bren lmg
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 2
    2 X cook ACC, driver IC
    Carries gun stores, baggage and blankets for three sub sections.
    Carries 216 rounds of 40mm ammunition in 9 boxes
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 3
    2 X driver operator, driver IC
    Carries gun stores, baggage and blankets for three sub sections.
    Carries 216 rounds of 40mm ammunition in 9 boxes

    Sub Section
    Tracked Self Propelled Light AA Gun, Crusader
    serjeant, loader/operator, driver mechanic
    Carries 190 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a 40mm Bofors gun
    15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    bombardier, 5 X gun number
    Carries 72 rounds of 40mm ammunition

    Sub Section
    Tracked Self Propelled Light AA Gun, Crusader
    serjeant, loader/operator, driver mechanic
    Carries 190 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a 40mm Bofors gun
    15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    bombardier, 5 X gun number
    Carries 72 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Sub Section
    Tracked Self Propelled Light AA Gun, Crusader
    serjeant, loader/operator, driver mechanic
    Carries 190 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a 40mm Bofors gun
    15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    bombardier, 5 X gun number
    Carries 72 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Sub Section
    Tracked Self Propelled Light AA Gun, Crusader
    serjeant, loader/operator, driver mechanic
    Carries 190 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a 40mm Bofors gun
    15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    bombardier, 5 X gun number
    Carries 72 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Sub Section
    Tracked Self Propelled Light AA Gun, Crusader
    serjeant, loader/operator, driver mechanic
    Carries 190 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a 40mm Bofors gun
    15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    bombardier, 5 X gun number
    Carries 72 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Sub Section
    Tracked Self Propelled Light AA Gun, Crusader
    serjeant, loader/operator, driver mechanic
    Carries 190 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a 40mm Bofors gun
    15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    bombardier, 5 X gun number
    Carries 72 rounds of 40mm ammunition

    Caution.
    Since no establishment has yet been found the precise organisation of the troop is not known. The crew and ammunition carried on the Crusader is correct. It is assumed that the additional personnel, ammunition and equipment is carried in 15cwt 4 X 4 GS trucks.




    LIGHT ANTI AIRCRAFT BATTERY (Mobile) RA. 1945
    War Establishment XIV/459/1. March 1945.
    This establishment was for a battery headquarters and two troops, each of 4 X 40mm AA guns and 4 X Quad .5” guns. The establishment contains variations for
    a Corp LAA Battery or an infantry division LAA Battery with one troop of SP guns
    an armoured division LAA Battery with all guns Self Propelled.


    Major
    3 X Captain
    5 X Subaltern

    3 X Battery Serjeant Major
    battery quartermaster serjeant
    12 X serjeant
    16 X bombardier
    21 X lance bombardier
    98 X gunner

    Attached
    radio mechanic RS
    3 X officers mess cook ACC
    2 X corporal cook ACC
    5 X cook ACC

    41 X tradesman
    bombardier clerk, pay duties
    bombardier clerk
    3 X clerk (one trained as driver IC)
    17 X driver mechanic
    6 X driver operator
    equipment repairer (trained as driver IC)
    2 X gun fitter
    3 X vehicle mechanic (trained as driver IC)

    9 X batman driver
    butchery dutyman
    7 X drivers IC
    104 X gun detachments
    5 X motorcyclist
    2 X medical offices orderly (trained as driver IC)
    sanitary dutyman (trained as driver IC)
    3 X storeman (trained as driver IC)
    3 X water dutyman (trained as driver IC)

    14 X motorcycle
    6 X car 5cwt 4 X 4
    4 X 15cwt GS
    2 X 15cwt water
    1 X 15cwt FFW
    8 X 3ton 4 X 4
    16 X Tractor LAA
    2 X 10cwt trailer
    1 X ton trailer

    19 X Bren gun
    4 X PIAT
    17 X signal pistol
    8 X Bofors LAA gun
    8 X .5” quad machine gun

    Headquarters
    Major
    Captain
    Subaltern

    Battery Serjeant Major
    battery quartermaster serjeant
    lance bombardier
    10 X gunner

    Attached
    2 X cook ACC
    electrician, signals RS

    8 X tradesman
    bombardier clerk, pay duties (trained as driver IC)
    bombardier clerk (trained as driver IC)
    clerk (trained as driver IC)
    driver mechanic
    bombardier driver operator, in charge of signals
    driver operator
    equipment repairer (trained as driver IC)
    vehicle mechanic

    3 X batman driver
    butchery dutyman
    1 X drivers IC
    3 X motorcyclist
    sanitary dutyman (trained as driver IC)
    storeman (trained as driver IC)
    water dutyman (trained as driver IC)

    4 X motorcycle
    2 X car 5cwt 4 X 4
    2 X 15cwt GS
    1 X 15cwt FFW
    2 X 3ton 4 X 4
    1 X water trailer, 180 gallons.

    1 X Bren gun
    1 X PIAT
    1 X signal pistol

    Motorcycle 1
    Battery Serjeant Major
    Motorcycle 2
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 3
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 4
    motorcyclist

    Car 15cwt 4 X 4 1
    Subaltern, batman driver
    Car 15cwt 4 X 4 2
    Captain, batman driver

    15cwt truck GS 1
    battery quartermaster serjeant, cook ACC, water dutyman, butchery dutyman
    Carries cooking gear and rations
    15cwt truck GS 2
    sanitary dutyman, equipment repairer, vehicle mechanic
    Carries PIAT

    15cwt FFW 1
    Major, 2 X driver operator, batman driver
    Carries a wireless set No 22
    15cwt FFW 2
    3 X driver operator
    Carries a wireless set No 22
    This vehicle from regimental headquarters

    3ton 4 X 4 GS 1
    clerk pay duties, clerk, driver mechanic
    Carries anti gas reserves, blankets, reserve SAA ammunition
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 2
    radio mechanic RS, storeman, clerk, driver IC
    Carries Bren lmg
    Carries 1260 watt charging engine
    Carries petrol and technical stores
    Tows a water tank trailer

    2 X Troop each
    Headquarters
    Captain
    2 X Subaltern
    serjeant
    3 X lance serjeant
    2 X lance bombardier
    8 X gunner
    corporal cook ACC
    2 X cook ACC

    clerk
    2 X driver operator
    gun fitter
    vehicle mechanic
    3 X batman driver
    3 X drivers IC
    medical orderly (trained as driver IC)
    motorcyclist
    storeman (trained as driver IC)
    water dutyman (trained as driver IC)

    5 X motorcycle
    2 X car 5cwt 4 X 4
    1 X 15cwt GS
    1 X 15cwt water
    3 X 3ton 4 X 4
    1 X 10cwt trailer

    1 X Bren gun
    1 X PIAT

    Motorcycle 1
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 2
    Subaltern
    Motorcycle 3
    serjeant
    Motorcycle 4
    gun fitter
    Motorcycle 5
    clerk (troop commanders assistant)

    Car 15cwt 4 X 4 1
    Subaltern, batman driver
    Car 15cwt 4 X 4 2
    Captain, batman driver

    15cwt truck GS
    corporal cook ACC, storeman, batman driver
    Carries cooking gear and rations
    Carries PIAT
    15cwt truck water
    water dutyman, vehicle mechanic

    3ton 4 X 4 GS 1
    medical orderly, driver IC
    Carries anti gas reserves, blankets
    Carries 528 rounds of 40mm ammunition in 22 boxes
    Carries Bren lmg
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 2
    2 X cook ACC, driver IC
    Carries gun stores, baggage and blankets for three sub sections.
    Carries 216 rounds of 40mm ammunition in 9 boxes
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 3
    2 X driver operator, driver IC
    Carries gun stores, baggage and blankets for three sub sections.
    Carries 216 rounds of 40mm ammunition in 9 boxes

    Sub Section
    Light AA Tractor, 4 X 4 1
    serjeant, 7 X gun numbers, driver mechanic
    Carries 192 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a 40mm Bofors gun
    Sub Section
    Light AA Tractor, 4 X 4 2
    serjeant, 7 X gun numbers, driver mechanic
    Carries 192 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a 40mm Bofors gun
    Sub Section
    Light AA Tractor, 4 X 4 3
    serjeant, 7 X gun numbers, driver mechanic
    Carries 192 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a 40mm Bofors gun
    Sub Section
    Light AA Tractor, 4 X 4 4
    serjeant, 7 X gun numbers, driver mechanic
    Carries 192 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a 40mm Bofors gun
    Sub Section
    Light AA Tractor, 4 X 4 5
    serjeant, 6 X gun numbers, driver mechanic
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a .5” quadruple machine gun
    Sub Section
    Light AA Tractor, 4 X 4 6
    serjeant, 6 X gun numbers, driver mechanic
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a .5” quadruple machine gun
    Sub Section
    Light AA Tractor, 4 X 4 7
    serjeant, 6 X gun numbers, driver mechanic
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a .5” quadruple machine gun
    Sub Section
    Light AA Tractor, 4 X 4 8
    serjeant, 6 X gun numbers, driver mechanic
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a .5” quadruple machine gun

    NOTES:
    Ammunition includes 48 rounds per 40mm gun anti tank ammunition.
    One car 5cwt may be issued instead of 2 motorcycles at headquarters.
    One officer and six men per troop will be trained in anti gas duties and decontamination work.

    In an Armoured Division Troop Headquarters will have one 15cwt FFW instead of one car 5 cwt.


    SELF PROPELLED TROOP

    Motorcycle 1
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 2
    Subaltern
    Motorcycle 3
    serjeant
    Motorcycle 4
    gun fitter
    Motorcycle 5
    clerk (troop commanders assistant)

    Car 15cwt 4 X 4 1
    Subaltern, batman driver
    Car 15cwt 4 X 4 2
    Captain, batman driver

    15cwt truck GS
    corporal cook ACC, storeman, batman driver
    Carries cooking gear and rations
    Carries PIAT
    15cwt truck water
    water dutyman, vehicle mechanic


    3ton 4 X 4 GS 1
    medical orderly, driver IC
    Carries anti gas reserves, blankets
    Carries 528 rounds of 40mm ammunition in 22 boxes
    Carries Bren lmg
    3ton 4 X 4 Tractor LAA (CMP Ford) 1
    2 X cook ACC, driver IC
    Carries gun stores, baggage and blankets for three sub sections.
    Carries 216 rounds of 40mm ammunition in 9 boxes
    Tows a 180 gallon water trailer
    3ton 4 X 4 Tractor LAA (CMP Ford) 2
    2 X driver operator, driver IC
    Carries gun stores, baggage and blankets for three sub sections.
    Carries 216 rounds of 40mm ammunition in 9 boxes

    Sub Section
    Self Propelled LAA Gun, 4 X 4
    serjeant, 2 X gun number, driver mechanic
    Carries 120 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a 40mm Bofors gun
    Carries a Bren lmg
    15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    bombardier, 4 X gun number
    Carries 72 rounds of 40mm ammunition

    Sub Section
    Self Propelled LAA Gun, 4 X 4
    serjeant, 2 X gun number, driver mechanic
    Carries 120 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a 40mm Bofors gun
    Carries a Bren lmg
    15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    bombardier, 4 X gun number
    Carries 72 rounds of 40mm ammunition

    Sub Section
    Self Propelled LAA Gun, 4 X 4
    serjeant, 2 X gun number, driver mechanic
    Carries 120 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a 40mm Bofors gun
    Carries a Bren lmg
    15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    bombardier, 4 X gun number
    Carries 72 rounds of 40mm ammunition

    Sub Section
    Self Propelled LAA Gun, 4 X 4
    serjeant, 2 X gun number, driver mechanic
    Carries 120 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a 40mm Bofors gun
    Carries a Bren lmg
    15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    bombardier, 4 X gun number
    Carries 72 rounds of 40mm ammunition

    Sub Section
    Self Propelled .5” machine gun halftrack
    serjeant, 2 X gun number, driver mechanic
    Carries a .5” quadruple machine gun
    Carries a Bren lmg
    15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    bombardier, 3 X gun number

    Sub Section
    Self Propelled .5” machine gun halftrack
    serjeant, 2 X gun number, driver mechanic
    Carries a .5” quadruple machine gun
    Carries a Bren lmg
    15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    bombardier, 3 X gun number

    Sub Section
    Self Propelled .5” machine gun halftrack
    serjeant, 2 X gun number, driver mechanic
    Carries a .5” quadruple machine gun
    Carries a Bren lmg
    15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    bombardier, 3 X gun number

    Sub Section
    Self Propelled .5” machine gun halftrack
    serjeant, 2 X gun number, driver mechanic
    Carries a .5” quadruple machine gun
    Carries a Bren lmg
    15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    bombardier, 3 X gun number

    Sub Section
    Self Propelled LAA Gun, 4 X 4
    serjeant, 2 X gun number, driver mechanic
    Carries 120 rounds of 40mm ammunition
    Carries a 40mm Bofors gun
    Carries a Bren lmg
    15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    bombardier, 4 X gun number
    Carries 72 rounds of 40mm ammunition



    Some roles.
    The major role for the Bofors gun was to protect mobile columns, ammunition and supply dumps and other vulnerable points from low level air attack. In forward areas only the Bofors could be used, the heavier guns not being sufficiently mobile.

    In rear areas batteries of Bofors guns, together with searchlight units, formed part of AA brigades, with the heavy guns providing high level cover and the Bofors providing low level cover.

    Bofors guns were not in great demand for their primary role since there were few enemy aircraft in forward areas. They were often used in secondary roles including
    - Thickening up artillery barrages by pouring fire into targets within their range. The shells might be small but there were enough of them to make an enemy take shelter.
    - Engaging enemy soft skin vehicles. The 40mm shell was not very effective against tanks but was effective against other vehicles using either high explosive or armour piercing ammunition.
    - Suppressing fire. A stream of 40 mm shells fired along a hedge or other source of cover reduced the ability of an enemy to engage advancing troops.
    - Marking the centre lines for advancing troops. It was easy to lose direction in the heat of battle but a steady line of tracer shells marked the way.
    - Designating targets. A stream of tracer shells could accurately mark a target for armour and artillery to engage.



    A Light AA Troop (20mm)
    Captain
    2 X Subaltern

    2 X serjeant No1 of gun
    serjeant
    6 X bombardier
    3 X lance bombardier
    37 X gunner

    clerk, trained as driver IC
    2 X driver operator
    gun fitter
    vehicle mechanic

    3 X batman driver
    5 X driver IC
    24 X gun number
    medical officers orderly, trained as driver IC
    6 X No1 of gun detachment, bombardier
    storeman, trained in water duties and as driver IC

    5 X motorcycle
    2 X car 5cwt 4 X 4
    8 X 15cwt AA 20mm gun
    1 X 15cwt water
    1 X 15cwt GS
    2 X 3ton 4 X 4 GS
    8 X 10cwt trailer


    Motorcycle 1
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 2
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 3
    Subaltern
    Motorcycle 4
    serjeant
    Motorcycle 5
    gun fitter

    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 1
    Captain, batman driver
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 2
    Subaltern, batman driver

    15cwt truck GS
    cook ACC, medical officers orderly
    Carries cooking gear and rations
    15cwt truck water
    storeman

    3ton 4 X 4 GS
    clerk, cook, vehicle mechanic batman driver
    Carries anti gas reserves, blankets, cooking sets and rations
    Carries 4,000 rounds of 20mm
    Carries PIAT
    3ton 4 X 4 GS
    2 X driver operator, driver IC
    Carries stores, technical equipment, baggage, blankets, petrol and medical equipment
    Carries 2 X R109 wireless receivers.
    Carries Bren lmg

    Section 1
    15cwt AA
    serjeant, 3 X gun numbers, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a trailer with 20mm ammunition
    15cwt AA
    bombardier, 3 X gun numbers, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a trailer with 20mm ammunition
    15cwt AA
    bombardier, 3 X gun numbers, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a trailer with 20mm ammunition
    15cwt AA
    bombardier, 3 X gun numbers, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a trailer with 20mm ammunition

    Note that section cooks, plus baggage and blankets, are carried in the transport of troop headquarters

    Section 2
    15cwt AA
    serjeant, 3 X gun numbers, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a trailer with 20mm ammunition
    15cwt AA
    bombardier, 3 X gun numbers, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a trailer with 20mm ammunition
    15cwt AA
    bombardier, 3 X gun numbers, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a trailer with 20mm ammunition
    15cwt AA
    bombardier, 3 X gun numbers, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a trailer with 20mm ammunition

    Note that section cooks, plus baggage and blankets, are carried in the transport of troop headquarters

    A Light AA Troop (20mm) could not operate independently but had to be attached to a Light AA Regiment.



    LIGHT ANTI AIRCRAFT BATTERY RA, PORT DEFENCE ABROAD, 21 ARMY GROUP
    WE XIV/451/1. June 1944
    This establishment superseded WE VIII/720/1.
    A number of batteries may be regimented under a LAA Regiment Headquarters WE VIII/721/1

    This unit is static. There are only three tractors for 18 guns. This would enable guns to be moved short distances.

    Major
    2 X Captain
    7 X Subaltern

    Battery Serjeant Major
    battery quartermaster serjeant
    21 X serjeant

    bombardier clerk, pay duties
    bombardier clerk
    clerk
    3 X driver mechanic
    equipment repairer
    4 X gun fitter
    vehicle mechanic

    10 X batman driver
    10 X casualty
    4 X drivers IC
    162 X gun and instrument detachments
    4 X motorcyclist
    sanitary dutyman
    storeman
    12 X telephonist

    8 X bicycle
    8 X motorcycle
    1 X car 2 seater 4 X 2
    2 X 15cwt GS
    3 X 3ton 4 X 4
    3 X Tractor LAA
    1 X water trailer, 180 gallons.

    4 X Bren lmg
    4 X signal pistol

    Note:
    Sanitary dutyman is trained as a driver IC
    One driver IC is trained in water duties


    Headquarters
    Major
    2 X Captain
    Subaltern

    Battery Serjeant Major
    battery quartermaster serjeant

    bombardier clerk, pay duties
    bombardier clerk
    clerk
    3 X driver mechanic
    equipment repairer
    gun fitter
    vehicle mechanic

    4 X batman driver
    10 X casualty
    4 X drivers IC
    motorcyclist
    sanitary dutyman
    storeman
    3 X telephonist

    officer mess cook ACC
    2 X cook ACC

    2 X bicycle
    2 X motorcycle
    1 X car 2 seater 4 X 2
    2 X 15cwt GS
    3 X 3ton 4 X 4
    3 X Tractor LAA
    1 X water trailer, 180 gallons.


    3 X troop
    Headquarters
    2 X Subaltern
    serjeant
    fitter
    2 X batman
    motorcyclist
    3 X telephonist
    2 X cook

    2 X bicycle
    2 X motorcycle

    Detachment 1
    serjeant
    bombardier
    9 X gunner and instrument number
    1 X 40mm Bofors LAA gun

    Detachment 2
    serjeant
    bombardier
    9 X gunner and instrument number
    1 X 40mm Bofors LAA gun

    Detachment 3
    serjeant
    bombardier
    9 X gunner and instrument number
    1 X 40mm Bofors LAA gun

    Detachment 4
    serjeant
    bombardier
    9 X gunner and instrument number
    1 X 40mm Bofors LAA gun

    Detachment 5
    serjeant
    bombardier
    9 X gunner and instrument number
    1 X 40mm Bofors LAA gun

    Detachment 6
    serjeant
    bombardier
    9 X gunner and instrument number
    1 X 40mm Bofors LAA gun



    THE VEHICLES

    Bedford QLB Bofors Tractor.
    The Bedford QLB was based on the Bedford QL chassis but had several modifications. The most important was that it was fitted with a chassis winch powered by a power take off. The winch could be used for recovering the Bofors gun from its emplaced position, or the winch cable could be led forward for self recovery. There was a crew compartment at the front of the body, with more crew accommodation at the rear. There were lockers for ammunition and gun equipment. A spare barrel was carried in a box and wheel scotches carried at the rear.

    Morris C9 Self Propelled 40mm Bofors.
    The Morris C9 was based on the Morris C8 Field Artillery tractor. As a self propelled mount for the Bofors gun it had a number of modifications.
    - The chassis was lengthened
    - A power take off was fitted. This drove an alternator which was used to power hydraulic pumps for traversing and elevating the gun.
    - The winch was deleted
    - A wide cab, with seats for four crew, was fitted.

    The gun could be used in the same way as the towed gun. There were seats for gun layer and aimer and Stiffkey sights were fitted or it could be operated using the power take off and alternator to work the gun hydraulically. In this case only the gun layer was required and he could lay control traversing and elevation with a joystick control.

    The gun could also be used in the following modes.
    - Ideally and when there was time the vehicle was jacked up. In order to level the vehicle and gun there were adjustable jacks on each side and front and rear. These jacks rested on cones which were carried on the vehicle.
    - In an emergency the vehicle could be fired from its wheels. The suspension could be locked to provide a firm platform.

    The gun could not be fired on the move.

    In action the seats and the steering wheel folded to allow a full 360 degree traverse with a 1½ degree depression.

    The vehicle carried 129 rounds of ammunition and a spare barrel.


    Crusader II AA MkI self propelled 40mm Bofors.
    The Crusader was developed to provide Light AA cover for armoured divisions. It was reasonably well armoured and could travel at 27mph on roads. It could thus keep up with armoured units.

    The armoured turret sheltered a Bofors gun on a modified mounting. This had motors for traversing and elevation and was controlled by a joystick. In emergency traversing and elevating handles could be fitted. Power was supplied from a separate generating set in the hull. The shell case ejector was modified so that spent cases were ejected through an opening in the turret rear.

    The crew was only three. On was the driver so the other two were kept busy. The commander was also the gun layer. The loader was also the wireless operator. A No 18 wireless set was carried. This was a model modified for armoured vehicle use.

    150 rounds of HE ammunition were carried plus 40 rounds armoured piercing.

    The gun could be fired on the move but this was not usual, or recommended except in emergency.



    The Bofors Gun.
    Designed in Sweden the Bofors 40mm AA gun was used by many armies including Britain and the USA. It was also used by several navies.

    The gun was intended for use against low flying aircraft and was automatic. Shells were loaded in four round chargers and then loaded into the breech by a spring rammer. Empty shell cases were ejected to fall down a chute which threw them clear. The gun was balanced by springs and mounted on a ball race so that it was quick and easy to train and aim by hand.

    The carriage was fitted with outriggers and could be levelled and stabilised by jacks. It could be fired from its wheels in an emergency.

    Elevation was 90 degrees and traverse was 360 degrees so that the gun could cover the entire sky. Weight in action was 4,368 lb which just about made it possible to manhandle it. Rate of fire was 120 rounds a minute.

    The horizontal range was 10,800 yards and the maximum ceiling 23,000 feet. In practice however the effective ceiling was 5000 feet which was dictated more by the sights than the gun.

    Fixed ammunition was used, with the propelling charge being in a brass case. The standard shell was Shell HE Mk4T which weighed 2lb and had a tracer/igniter. This allowed the path of the shell to be followed and the shell detonated at a range of either 3,400 yards or 5,500 yards. Unlike the heavy AA shells which were fused to detonate in the path of an aircraft the Bofors shell self destructed to avoid a rain of shells coming down on friendly ground troops. There was also a useful armour piercing projectile, Shot AP Mk6T

    Since the Bofors gun with field armies was intended to defend against low flying aircraft and its effective range was about a mile there was very little time in which to engage. The predictor was abandoned in 1943 for field units although it was used in the UK to combat the V1 Flying Bomb. The usual deployment was a half troop of three guns in a triangle.

    The gun crew was normally six men.
    No1 NCO, gun commander
    No2 Layer for Bearing
    No3 Layer for Elevation
    No4 Loader
    No5 Ammunition Number
    No6 Ammunition Number.



    Markings.
    Light AA units followed the standard marking practices for RA units. As well as the arm of service square there was a smaller square which showed the battery and vehicle number.

    A LAA regiment in an armoured division carried the white number 73 on a blue and red square
    A LAA regiment in an infantry division carried the white number 47 on a blue and red square
    A LAA regiment in a corps carried a whit numeral 14 on a blue and red square


    Vehicle numbers and letters were shown in white on the vehicles tactical sign. These signs were squares, generally half the size of the Arm of Service sign and generally displayed above the top right hand corner of the Arm of Service Sign. Some were displayed elsewhere on the vehicles front and rear.

    - Regimental headquarters used a square divided red over blue as for the Arm of Service sign
    - Battery 1 had a blue square with the top right hand quarter in red.
    - Battery 2 had a blue square with the bottom right hand corner in red
    - Battery 3 had a blue square with the bottom left hand corner in red.
    - Battery 4 had a blue square with the top left hand corner in red

    The letters and numbers could be placed in various styles but were consistent throughout a regiment
    - some units placed then centrally
    - some units placed them only in the blue portion
    - some units placed them with the number underneath the letter
    - at least one unit placed them only on the red part.

    The combination of battery square with letters and numbers ensured that every vehicle in the regiment could be identified.

    Attached Royal Signals carried the unit code on a blue and white square.



    A LIGHT ANTI AIRCRAFT WORKSHOP TYPE A REME.
    This was responsible for the maintenance and 1st line repair for a Light Anti Aircraft Regiment in a division or corps. It consisted of a headquarters and one section for each battery. If the regiment was issued with radar a telecommunication section was added.

    Headquarters
    Captain

    staff serjeant armament artifiecer
    staff serjeant armourer
    serjeant artisan
    10 X craftsmen and privates

    trades included
    armament artificer, anti aircraft
    armourer
    2 X driver mechanic
    electrician, control equipment
    2 X fitter
    instrument mechanic, LAA
    vehicle mechanic
    clerk
    storeman
    2 X driver IC

    Transport
    1 X motorcycle
    1 X car 5cwt 4 X 4
    1 X 3ton 4 X 2 store (unbinned, flat floor)
    1 X 3ton 4 X 4 or 6 X 4 Machinery Type M
    1 X 3ton 6 X 4 Breakdown


    Battery section
    staff serjeant armament artificer
    driver mechanic
    electrician, vehicle and plant
    fitter
    instrument mechanic, LAA
    2 X vehicle mechanic

    Transport
    1 X car 5cwt 4 X 4
    1 X 3ton 4 X 2 store (unbinned, flat floor)


    telecommunications section
    Captain
    staff serjeant armament artificer, radio
    2 X telecommunications mechanic

    1 X 4 seater, 4 X 2, Heavy Utility type ‘I’


    Drivers are not provided for all vehicles. Units will ensure that sufficient personnel are trained to drive unit vehicles.

    Not all personnel and stores can be carried in the vehicles of the workshop and must be carried in the transport of the formation of which this unit forms a part.
     
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