| Article number: | 10.11.071 |
MTB 304 belonged to the series of motor torpedo boats (MTBs) of the Royal Navy, built around 1943. A list shows that: “Their British designations were MTB’s 301-306.”
This series was transferred via the Lend-Lease arrangement: American-built (“BPT” = British Patrol Boat built in the U.S.) was supplied to the British Navy.
specification for the 70-ft Vosper MTBs like this series:
Length: approximately 70 feet (≈ 21 metres) for the “70′ Vosper” type.
Armament: Torpedo tubes (usually 21-inch or 18-inch depending on version), plus light machine guns/cannons for self-defence.
Speed: For this class often 35-40 knots, depending on engines & load.
Construction material and structure: Many MTBs had wooden hulls (mahogany or other wood) with powerful petrol engines, for high speed and coastal operations.
MTB 304 entered service in 1943, as part of the British Coastal Forces.
As part of the fast torpedo boat fleet, it was expected to be deployed for: interception of enemy shipping, attacks on enemy coastal targets/ships, and operations in the coastal zone/English Channel or North Sea.
The mention that it returned to the USA in 1946 (“17.3.46: USA”) suggests that after the war the boat was either transferred or decommissioned.
MTBs like the 301-series were innovative: small vessels, high speed, well-armed for their size — suitable for “hit and run” actions.
The supply via the USA showed how the wartime economy and cooperation between allies worked: American shipbuilding supported the continuation of the British Navy.
MTB 304 illustrates the type of coastal warfare that often receives less attention than large battleships, but was essential.
Specifications :
|
Drawing number |
10.11.071 |
|
Description |
Fast Attack Boat "304" |
|
Quality |
frames; side view; deck plan; details; drawing with Chinese text |
|
Scale |
1 : 72 |
|
Number of sheets A00 |
0 |
|
Number of sheets A0 |
0 |
|
Number of sheets A1 |
2 |
|
Number of sheets A2 |
0 |
|
Number of sheets A3 |
0 |
|
Number of sheets A4 |
0 |
|
Total number of drawing sheets |
2 |
|
Number of A4 text sheets |
0 |
|
Weight in grams |
105 |
|
Particulars |
l.o.a. 63 cm |
|
Remarks |
artek 0014 |