The Dark class, most numerous of the Royal Navy's several types of F.P.B., will soon be joined by H.M.S. Dark Scout, which is notable in having an all-welded aluminium hull. This contrasts with earlier units, most of which have aluminium framing and decks, but wooden hull skins of double-diagonal planking.
These vessels - some 20 strong - are capable of over 45 knots and are powered by two lightweight 18 cylinder Napier-Deltic engines, which are placedaft of the vee-gearing. Together these develop a maximum of 5,000 s.h.p. at 2,000 r.p.m. The Darks have a crew of 12 officers and men; they have a 19 ft. beam and an overall length of 71 ft., and are designed to carry alternative forms of armament. The main picture shows one as a gunboat, but they can also serve as torpedo boats, minelayers or in a dual role. The Dark Scout, launched at Beaumaris, is the 14th of this type to have been built by Saunders-Roe (Anglesey) Ltd., who are the parent firm for these vessels.
Insets on left: (A) As Motor Torpedo Boat. Four 21 in. torpedo tubes; Oerlikon forward; two rocket projectors; two depth charges. (B) Two torpedo tubes. 4.5 in. gun or Bofors or Oerlikon forward; two rocket projectors; two depth charges. (C) Designed as a Minelayer. Bofors or Oerlikon forward; six mines; two rocket projectors. |
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