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Ordnance QF 3.7-Inch AA

1937 COLD WAR WORLD WAR 2

History

When Vickers began production of mobile 3.7-inch anti-aircraft guns in 1937 to comply with British orders, it soon became apparent that the rearrangement program required higher performance. Vickers was asked to design a simpler static version for use in the UK and overseas bases. This was achieved by eliminating the landing gear, outriggers and jacks and placing a base plate on the base, which was bolted into concrete and levelled.

The height of the base had to be increased, the lugs moved forward, and rear weights were used instead of springs.

This counterweight counteracts the muzzle overweight of the muzzle and bracket when the lug is moved back. The counterweight is a cast iron attached to the back of the bassinet by a support beam and two support arms.

Cast iron contains several chambers containing approximately 420 kilograms of lead.

The decision to manufacture 3.7" anti-aircraft guns in Australia was a result of the Imperial Defence Conference held in May/June 1937 as a contribution to Imperial Defence. In October 1937, the Ordnance Supply Bureau sent two of its officers, including Mr. V. Parker, the deputy director of the Ordnance Factory, to England to study the manufacture of 3.7-inch guns, and which machines and factories to purchase were approved.

On March 22, 1939, the Army received its first production order for 130 guns. Ten months after receiving the drawings, the Ordnance Factory built the first cannon in May 1940. This was the beginning of the factory's extensive contribution to the stockpile of weapons used in the 1939-1945 war. Four guns were shipped to Darwin in August 1940.

Others were sent to England and stationed in London's Hyde Park, where they played a role in defending the city from a massive attack in 1940. Other weapons were sent to Singapore, only to be captured by the Japanese.

By January 1941, 8 guns were produced per month, increasing to 12 in February 1941, to 16 in December 1941, and finally to 22 in June 1942. Each gun costs ?7,500 ($15,000) versus ?10,000 ($20,000). in England. A total of 600 stationary guns were made.