MGB601 Patrol Force Moror gun/torpedo boat

THE FAIRMILE TYPED

There were four classes of Fairmile motorboats constructed during the Second World War, of which the Types B and D, which were essentially similar, were the most numerous. Designed by William Holt, the Type D was marginally the biggest of the series, 115 feet (35m) long and dis placing 100 tons as an MTB (Motor Torpedo Boat), 90 tons as an MGB (Motor Gun Boat). It differed from the earlier designs in having a pronounced knuckle in the hull form, the resulting concavity allowing the craft to ride more easily at their maximum speed of almost 30 knots. MGB6O I was the first of the type to be built, and completed in February 1942.

KIT FORM CONSTRUCTION

The Fairmile boats were built in kit form, and assembled by a wide variety of yards, most of whom had had little or no experience of working for the Royal Navy. They were designed from the outset to be used as either torpedo or gun boats, the first 95 units completed being originally designated as the latter (though by the end of the war all but 11 survivors had been converted to the MTB standard). They were built entirely of wood, and powered by four 1200bhp Rolls-Royce Merlin V-12 petrol engines produced in the USA by Packard, marinised versions of the same plant which powered the Mustang fighter. A single experimental boat, powered by four Bristol engines giving a total of 6600bhp, was produced as the Type F, but despite the considerably higher power, it does not seem to have had superior performance. Some 20 per cent of all the Fairmile Type Ds were lost on active service.

TECHNICAL DATA
Type: Motor gun/torpedo boat Machinery: 4-shaft Packard Merlin petrol engines giving a total of 4800bhp
Dimensions (overall): Length, 35.1mn (11.5ft); beam, 6.5m (21 .25ft)
Displacement: (as MGB): 90t standard, 107t deep load
Draught: 1.5m (5ft) deep load
Complement: 14-30