Having just watched the “Inside the Chieftain’s Hatch” episode about the Sherman Firefly - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__Y8YJeas4I – I’m amazed they did so well. (And full of admiration for their crews) But this did make me wonder about an alternative.
The original plan for the A27 Cromwell was to install a new Vickers 75mm HV gun; however, at a late stage it was found this would not fit. While I haven’t found a great deal of information about this, it appears to be similar to the later 77mm but using US 75mm shells and designed for an external mantlet.
Can anyone point me towards further information, either on-line or print? I’m wondering how far design had progressed and would it be feasible for this gun to replace the 17pdr in Fireflys. This might allow for more space internally, retaining the bow gunner and a better all round tank?
I don’t expect this to be a game-changer - for example, it could lead to logistical issues, mixing QF 75mm and 75mm HV,.30 Browning and 7.92 BESA - but an easier time for Firefly crews (and possible acceleration of the Comet) would certainly be worthwhile.
(Edited due to slight senior moment about Shermans and BESAs)
The original plan for the A27 Cromwell was to install a new Vickers 75mm HV gun; however, at a late stage it was found this would not fit. While I haven’t found a great deal of information about this, it appears to be similar to the later 77mm but using US 75mm shells and designed for an external mantlet.
Can anyone point me towards further information, either on-line or print? I’m wondering how far design had progressed and would it be feasible for this gun to replace the 17pdr in Fireflys. This might allow for more space internally, retaining the bow gunner and a better all round tank?
I don’t expect this to be a game-changer - for example, it could lead to logistical issues, mixing QF 75mm and 75mm HV,
(Edited due to slight senior moment about Shermans and BESAs)
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