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Motor landing craft under construction, 1942
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Motor landing craft under construction, 1942
In August 1941 the GWR began building the first of a large number of motor landing craft in the Carriage and Wagon shops at Swindon. No. 13, Wagon Frame Shop was where this work took place, and in this image one of the first batch of 12 landing craft can be seen under construction in February 1942. The bulkheads and frames are shown erected on a jig, while the hull bottom strakes are in the process of being fitted. Bulletproof cladding, the engines, propellers and other fittings would then have been added and the craft ready for launch in May 1942. At 40ft in length and with a 13ft 6in. beam, these craft were too wide to be moved by rail so had to be transported to the coast at Southampton by a tractor drawn road vehicle
STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway
Media ID 19869747
1940s Swindon Swindon Works World War 2 World War Ii Wwii 1942 Landing Craft Manufacture
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the remarkable construction process of motor landing craft during World War II. Taken in February 1942 at Swindon's No. 13, Wagon Frame Shop, it captures one of the first twelve landing craft being meticulously assembled. The image reveals the intricate details involved in their creation. The hull bottom strakes are seen being fitted onto a sturdy jig while bulkheads and frames stand tall, forming the foundation of these robust vessels. This snapshot offers a glimpse into the early stages of production before bulletproof cladding, engines, propellers, and other essential fittings were added. Measuring an impressive 40ft in length with a beam of 13ft 6in. , these landing craft proved too wide for rail transportation. Consequently, they had to be carefully transported by tractor-drawn road vehicles to Southampton's coast for launch in May that same year. As we admire this historical photograph from STEAM Museum of the GWR, we are reminded not only of Swindon Works' vital contribution to manufacturing during wartime but also its significant role in supporting Britain's military efforts. Through their tireless dedication and expertise showcased here, countless lives were safeguarded as these motor landing crafts played a crucial part in amphibious operations throughout World War II.
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