Searchlight [90cm HCD Mk III Searchlight with Fortress Mark V Projector]
Production date
1939
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Object detail
Accession number
1977.136
Production period
Description
This is a high current density (HCD) 90 cm Mk III lamp with a Fortress Mk V projector used for coastal patrol. Colour: Army dark green. Large searchlight mounted on trailer chassis with four wheels. Searchlight is approximately 1 metre (40 inches) in diameter and has green canvas cover. Fold down stabilisers and foot supports. Thick electrical cable with black insulation.
Brief History
Searchlights like this were used up and down New Zealand's coastlines during World War II. The Auckland-based 9th Coastal Regiment positioned them on the Whangaparāoa peninsula, and at Castor Bay, Narrow Neck, North Head, Bastion Point and Motutapu. Placed close to the shoreline, the bright lights shone across the water to illuminate any ships passing into the Waitematā harbour. Members of the 9th Coastal Regiment were poised and ready to fire upon any enemy ships.
Marks
2 TON 4 WHEELED, / PROJECTOR TRAILERS / CHASSIS P786 CONTRACT M10046 / W.D.No X4937906 Maker's Plate
Media/Materials
Credit Line
1939. Searchlight [90cm HCD Mk III Searchlight with Fortress Mark V Projector], 1977.136. The Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT).
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