note: le nom anglais armoured car sera utilisé tout au long de cet article à la place del'américain armored car.
When we talk about English armoured cars of the second world war, we are a little disoriented by all these different names: armoured car, light reconaissance car, scout car, and by the variety of different models: Humber, Morris, AEC, Daimler etc ... some producing scout cars but also armoured cars etc ... all this compared to the American pragmatism that will produce a single model of armoured car (for the US army) for the whole war, the M8/M20.
note: the british name armoured car will be used during all this article instead of the american armored car.
When we talk about English armoured cars of the second world war, we are a little disoriented by all these different names: armoured car, light reconaissance car, scout car, and by the variety of different models: Humber, Morris, AEC, Daimler etc ... some producing scout cars but also armoured cars etc ... all this compared to the American pragmatism that will produce a single model of armoured car (for the US army) for the whole war, the M8/M20.
note: the british name armoured car will be used during all this article instead of the american armored car.
I - Appellations des différents types d'auto-mitrailleuses anglaises pendant la WWII :
Car, armoured :
Ressemble plus à un char sur roues (aussi appelé light tank, wheeled ou char léger sur roues), ce modèle recevra à partir de 1941 l'appellation de armoured car.
Car, scout :
Appellation introduite en 1939, véhicule plus léger et plus discret destiné à la reconnaissance et à la liaison dans l'espace du champ de bataille, utilisé avec les régiments blindés.
Car, light reconnaissance :
Appellation introduite en 1941, véhicules utilisés dans les régiments de reconnaissance (successeurs des régiments de cavalerie) des divisions d'infanterie, destinés à la reconnaissance à moyenne distance au delà du champ de bataille. Cette classe de véhicules dérive directement des auto-mitrailleuses légères construites dans l'urgence de 1940 après Dunkerque. L'armement habituel étant une mitrailleuse bren et un fusil anti-char Boys.
Les anglais font une différence entre scout qui est une reconnaissance et liaison à courte distance dans le cadre du champ de bataille ( les véhicules sont sans tourelle car ils ne sont pas vraiment conçus pour combattre) et reconnaissance qui se conçoit plus à moyenne ou longue distance ( les véhicules possèdent une tourelle car ils sont plus amenés à combattre) au delà du champ de bataille.
I - Designations of the different types of English armoured car during WWII:
Car, armoured:
More like a tank on wheels (also called light tank, wheeled), this model will receive from 1941 the name of armoured car.
Car, scout:
Designation introduced in 1939, a lighter and more discreet vehicle for reconnaissance and liaison in the battlefield space, used with armoured regiments.
Car, light reconnaissance:
Designation introduced in 1941, vehicles used in reconnaissance regiments (successors of cavalry regiments) infantry divisions, intended for reconnaissance at medium distance beyond the battlefield. This class of vehicles derives directly from light armoured cars built in emergency after Dunkirk 1940. The usual weaponry is a Bren machine gun and a Boys anti-tank rifle.
The English make a difference between Scout which is a reconnaissance and short-range liaison within the battlefield (vehicles are without a turret because they are not really designed to fight) and reconnaissance that is designed more to medium or long distance (vehicles have a turret because they are more likely to fight) beyond the battlefield.
I - Designations of the different types of English armoured car during WWII:
Car, armoured:
More like a tank on wheels (also called light tank, wheeled), this model will receive from 1941 the name of armoured car.
Car, scout:
Designation introduced in 1939, a lighter and more discreet vehicle for reconnaissance and liaison in the battlefield space, used with armoured regiments.
Car, light reconnaissance:
Designation introduced in 1941, vehicles used in reconnaissance regiments (successors of cavalry regiments) infantry divisions, intended for reconnaissance at medium distance beyond the battlefield. This class of vehicles derives directly from light armoured cars built in emergency after Dunkirk 1940. The usual weaponry is a Bren machine gun and a Boys anti-tank rifle.
The English make a difference between Scout which is a reconnaissance and short-range liaison within the battlefield (vehicles are without a turret because they are not really designed to fight) and reconnaissance that is designed more to medium or long distance (vehicles have a turret because they are more likely to fight) beyond the battlefield.
II- Armoured cars :
Dans les années 1920, l'armée anglaise utilise des auto-mitrailleuses sur chassis 4X2 (essentiellement Rolls), A la fin de cette décennie, l'Angleterre décide de moderniser son parc car ces véhicules étaient peu adaptés au tout-terrain. il est donc décidé de privilégier les chassis 6X4 pour de meilleures performances, il fut ainsi produit 43 Lanchester entre 1927 et 1931 suivies par 6 crossley (environ 76 Rolls étaient toujours en service). A la fin des années 30, la menace de guerre en Europe augmentant, l'armée britannique décide de moderniser son matériel par des chassis 4X4 supérieurs aux 6X4 existants, en effet, les seules auto-mitrailleuses modernes 4X4 étaient les 100 (99+1 prototype) Morris CS9/LAC (pour Light Armoured Car) testées en 1936 et livrées en 1938.
In the 1920s, the British army uses 4X2 chassis (mostly Rolls), at the end of this decade, England decided to modernize its fleet because these vehicles were not very suitable off-road. it is decided to favor 6X4 chassis for better performance, it was thus produced 43 Lanchester between 1927 and 1931 followed by 6 crossley (about 76 Rolls were still in use). At the end of the 30s, with the threat of war in Europe increasing, the British army decided to modernize its equipment with 4X4 chassis superior to the existing 6X4, in fact, the only modern armoured cars were the 100 (99 + 1 prototype) Morris CS9 / LAC (for Light Armored Car) tested in 1936 and delivered in 1938.
Rolls-Royce mod.1924 armoured car (source internet)
Lanchester mkII 6X4 armoured car (source internet)
In the 1920s, the British army uses 4X2 chassis (mostly Rolls), at the end of this decade, England decided to modernize its fleet because these vehicles were not very suitable off-road. it is decided to favor 6X4 chassis for better performance, it was thus produced 43 Lanchester between 1927 and 1931 followed by 6 crossley (about 76 Rolls were still in use). At the end of the 30s, with the threat of war in Europe increasing, the British army decided to modernize its equipment with 4X4 chassis superior to the existing 6X4, in fact, the only modern armoured cars were the 100 (99 + 1 prototype) Morris CS9 / LAC (for Light Armored Car) tested in 1936 and delivered in 1938.
Rolls-Royce mod.1924 armoured car (source internet)
Lanchester mkII 6X4 armoured car (source internet)
Crossley 6X4 armoured car (source internet)
Morris CS9/LAC light armoured car(source internet)
Morris CS9/LAC light armoured car(source internet)
Des tests furent donc menés pour une production ultérieure d'auto-mitrailleuses 4X4 en remplacement de tous les modèles existants. En février 1938, cinq constructeurs furent choisis pour proposer des chassis (Guy, Unipower, GMC, Morris, Steyr-Daimler-Puch). A la fin Février 1938, GMC et Unipower furent éliminés, les tests continuèrent avec les trois autres constructeurs pendant tout le mois de Février, plusieurs véhicules (3 Guy, 6 Morris et 5 Steyr) étant testés avec des configurations différentes de moteurs.
La décision fut prise en janvier 1939, un contrat pour 101 auto-mitrailleuses fut passé avec Guy, la dénomination étant light tank, wheeled (char léger à roues) Mark I Guy, l'usage de ces véhicules étant la reconnaissance armée à longue distance.
Tests were therefore carried out for the subsequent production of 4X4 armoured cars to replace all existing models. In February 1938, five manufacturers were chosen to offer chassis (Guy, Unipower, GMC, Morris, Steyr-Daimler-Puch). In late February 1938, GMC and Unipower were eliminated, testing continued with the other three manufacturers throughout the month of February, several vehicles (3 Guy, 6 Morris and 5 Steyr) being tested with different engine configurations.
The decision was taken in January 1939, a contract for 101 armoured cars was conclued with Guy, the name being light tank, wheeled Mark I Guy, the use of these vehicles being the long-range armed reconnaissance .
Marmon-Herrington Armored car:
In 1938, at the request of the South African government, two Armored car prototypes were built. At the declaration of war, in September 1939, facing the urgent needs of material, the contract was increased to 7 then 22 then 226 in October 1939. During this time, the original chassis ford 3 t. two-wheel drive was converted to four-wheel drive chassis by he firm Marmon-Herrington (Indianapolis, USA). The vehicle was delivered on September 18, 1939 and subjected to intensive tests and then accepted in January 1940. The contract was increased to 1000 vehicles after the disastrous campaign of France. The construction of such an armored vehicle had never been done in South Africa, but branches of Ford and General Motors existed on the country and the heavy industry was efficient thanks to the mines. Thus, the chassis was imported from Canada, the 4X4 conversion by the Marmon-Herrington firm of Indianapolis, USA, the assembly was supported by the South African Ford branch, the armor was produced locally. The first 1000 vehicles were produced from May 1940 to May 1941 (including the first 113 mark I in 4X2 and 887 following mark II in 4X4) and denominated South-African Reconnaissance cars mark I and II. These models were successfully used against Italians in East Africa. The British government then asked to receive these Armored cars and a quota of 400 mark II was delivered under the designation armored cars, Marmon-Herrington, mark II. Note that these vehicles were equipped with a Boys anti-tank rifle. A new model Mark III came out of the chains in May 1941 and in August 1942 the last of the 2630 ordered were produced. The main defect was the weakness of the armament, that is why, in the units, a more important weapon was often adapted (Italian breda gun of 20 mm, French 25 mm gun, etc ..). Mark III was also exported to the colonies. A new model mark IV, with a totally different look was conceived at the beginning of 1942 with rear engine and 2 pdr gun, 2116 were produced but not in time to take part in the African campaign, a large number was used in the colonies and by Allied forces. Other models (mark VI, VII, VIII) did not go beyond the prototype stage.
Tests were therefore carried out for the subsequent production of 4X4 armoured cars to replace all existing models. In February 1938, five manufacturers were chosen to offer chassis (Guy, Unipower, GMC, Morris, Steyr-Daimler-Puch). In late February 1938, GMC and Unipower were eliminated, testing continued with the other three manufacturers throughout the month of February, several vehicles (3 Guy, 6 Morris and 5 Steyr) being tested with different engine configurations.
The decision was taken in January 1939, a contract for 101 armoured cars was conclued with Guy, the name being light tank, wheeled Mark I Guy, the use of these vehicles being the long-range armed reconnaissance .
Marmon-Herrington armoured car :
En 1938, à la demande du gouvernement sud-Africain, deux prototypes d'auto-mitrailleuses furent construits. A la déclaration de guerre, en septembre 1939, devant les besoins urgents de matériel, le contrat fut augmenté à 7 puis 22 puis 226 en octobre 1939. Pendant ce temps, le chassis original ford 3 t. à deux roues motrices fut converti en chassis à quatre roues motrices par la firme Marmon-Herrington. Le véhicule fut livré le 18 septembre 1939 et soumis à des tests intensifs puis accepté en janvier 1940. Le contrat fut porté à 1000 véhicules après la désastreuse campagne de France. La construction d'un tel véhicule blindé n'avait jamais eu lieu en Afrique du Sud mais des succursales de Ford et General Motors existaient sur place et l'industrie lourde était performante grace aux mines. Ainsi, le chassis fut importé du Canada, la conversion 4X4 par la firme Marmon-Herrington d'Indianapolis aux USA, le montage fut pris en charge par la succursale Ford Sud-Africaine, le blindage fut produit localement. Les 1000 premiers véhicules furent produits de mai 1940 à mai 1941 (dont les 113 premiers mark I en 4X2 et 887 suivant mark II en 4X4) et dénommés south-African Reconnaissance cars mark I et II. Ces modèles furent utilisés avec succès contre les Italiens en Afrique de l'est. Le gouvernement britannique demanda alors à recevoir aussi ces auto-mitrailleuses et un contingent de 400 mark II fut livré sous la désignation armoured car, Marmon-Herrington, mark II. A noter que ces véhicules furent équipés d'un fusil anti-char Boys. Un nouveau modèle mark III sortit des chaines en mai 1941 et en aout 1942 les derniers des 2630 commandés furent produits. Le principal défaut était la faiblesse de l'armement, c'est pourquoi, dans les unités, un armement plus important fut souvent adapté (canon italien breda de 20 mm , canon français de 25 mm, etc..). La mark III fut aussi exportée dans les colonies. Un nouveau modèle mark IV, d'allure totalement différente fut conçu début 1942 avec moteur à l'arrière et canon 2 pdr, 2116 furent produits mais pas à temps pour prendre part à la campagne africaine, un grand nombre utilisé dans les colonies et par les forces alliées. D'autres modèles (mark VI, VII, VIII) ne dépassèrent pas le stade des prototypes.
Marmon-Herrington Armored car:
In 1938, at the request of the South African government, two Armored car prototypes were built. At the declaration of war, in September 1939, facing the urgent needs of material, the contract was increased to 7 then 22 then 226 in October 1939. During this time, the original chassis ford 3 t. two-wheel drive was converted to four-wheel drive chassis by he firm Marmon-Herrington (Indianapolis, USA). The vehicle was delivered on September 18, 1939 and subjected to intensive tests and then accepted in January 1940. The contract was increased to 1000 vehicles after the disastrous campaign of France. The construction of such an armored vehicle had never been done in South Africa, but branches of Ford and General Motors existed on the country and the heavy industry was efficient thanks to the mines. Thus, the chassis was imported from Canada, the 4X4 conversion by the Marmon-Herrington firm of Indianapolis, USA, the assembly was supported by the South African Ford branch, the armor was produced locally. The first 1000 vehicles were produced from May 1940 to May 1941 (including the first 113 mark I in 4X2 and 887 following mark II in 4X4) and denominated South-African Reconnaissance cars mark I and II. These models were successfully used against Italians in East Africa. The British government then asked to receive these Armored cars and a quota of 400 mark II was delivered under the designation armored cars, Marmon-Herrington, mark II. Note that these vehicles were equipped with a Boys anti-tank rifle. A new model Mark III came out of the chains in May 1941 and in August 1942 the last of the 2630 ordered were produced. The main defect was the weakness of the armament, that is why, in the units, a more important weapon was often adapted (Italian breda gun of 20 mm, French 25 mm gun, etc ..). Mark III was also exported to the colonies. A new model mark IV, with a totally different look was conceived at the beginning of 1942 with rear engine and 2 pdr gun, 2116 were produced but not in time to take part in the African campaign, a large number was used in the colonies and by Allied forces. Other models (mark VI, VII, VIII) did not go beyond the prototype stage.
Marmon-Herrington mark II avec canon italien Breda 20 mm (source internet)
Marmon-Herrington mark IV (source internet)
Marmon-Herrington mark VIII (source internet)
Marmon-Herrington mark VIII (source internet)
Guy armoured car :
Le vainqueur de la compétition de 1938, 101 véhicules commandés. Il y eut deux versions (Mark).
The winner of the 1938 competition, 101 vehicles ordered. There were two versions (Mark).
The winner of the 1938 competition, 101 vehicles ordered. There were two versions (Mark).
Guy mkI armoured car (source internet)
Guy mkIA armoured car (source internet)
Guy mkIA armoured car (source internet)
Daimler armoured car :
Devant les performances très satisfaisantes atteintes par la scout car de BSA, il fut décidé de retravailler le modèle en une version plus grande en tant que light tank, wheeled. Le travail commença en avril 1939 et avant la fin de l'année les deux véhicules pilotes roulaient déjà. Mais les tests montrèrent que le passage d'une scout car à une armoured car n'étaient pas aussi simple et les difficultés conduisirent à une sortie des chaînes seulement en avril 1941. Pendant son développement, la Daimler fut dénommée light tank, wheeled, mark II (la Mark I étant la Guy), mais à sa sortie elle prit le nouveau nom de armoured car, Daimler Mark I. Il y eut deux versions (Mark) au total.
Because of the very satisfactory performances reached by the BSA scout car, it was decided to rework the model in a larger version as light tank, wheeled. Work began in April 1939 and by the end of the year the two pilot vehicles were already rolling. But the tests showed that the passage of a scout car to an armoured car were not so simple and the difficulties led to production only in April 1941. During its development, the Daimler was denominated light tank, wheeled, mark II (the Mark I being the Guy), but later it took the new name of armoured car, Daimler Mark I. There were two versions (Mark) in total.
Daimler mkII armoured car (source internet)
Because of the very satisfactory performances reached by the BSA scout car, it was decided to rework the model in a larger version as light tank, wheeled. Work began in April 1939 and by the end of the year the two pilot vehicles were already rolling. But the tests showed that the passage of a scout car to an armoured car were not so simple and the difficulties led to production only in April 1941. During its development, the Daimler was denominated light tank, wheeled, mark II (the Mark I being the Guy), but later it took the new name of armoured car, Daimler Mark I. There were two versions (Mark) in total.
Daimler mkII armoured car (source internet)
Humber armoured car :
Lorsque la guerre fut déclarée, les besoins en auto-mitrailleuses furent trop importants pour la firme Guy, aussi il fut demandé au groupe Rootes de concevoir et produire un autre modèle. La firme Karrier fut choisie et pour aller plus vite, la conception fut proche du modèle de Guy (qui fournissait tourelle et superstructure) et des composants déjà existants employés. Un contrat pour 500 véhicules fut passé en juin 1940 et les premiers modèles sortirent d'usine au début 1941. Ce modèle fut dénommé light tank, wheeled, Mark III mais à la sortie fut renommé armoured car, Humber Mark I. Il y eut quatre versions (Mark) au total.
When the war was declared, the need for armoured cars was too great for Guy, so the Rootes group was asked to design and produce another model. The firm Karrier was chosen and to go faster, the design was close to Guy's model (which provided turret and superstructure) and already existing components used. A contract for 500 vehicles was passed in June 1940 and the first models went out of production at the beginning of 1941. This model was called light tank, wheeled, Mark III but later was renamed armoured car, Humber Mark I. There were four versions (Mark) in total.
Humber mkII armoured car (source internet)
When the war was declared, the need for armoured cars was too great for Guy, so the Rootes group was asked to design and produce another model. The firm Karrier was chosen and to go faster, the design was close to Guy's model (which provided turret and superstructure) and already existing components used. A contract for 500 vehicles was passed in June 1940 and the first models went out of production at the beginning of 1941. This model was called light tank, wheeled, Mark III but later was renamed armoured car, Humber Mark I. There were four versions (Mark) in total.
Humber mkII armoured car (source internet)
AEC armoured car :
A la fin 1941, les régiments d'auto-mitrailleuses avaient acquis beaucoup d'expérience suite aux combats en Lybie, mais leurs matériels se composaient alors surtout de Marmon-Herringtons trop légèrements armées pour s'en prendre aux auto-mitrailleuses de l'axe. La firme AEC consciente du problème développa sur fonds propres un véhicule sur roues (chassis de Matador) avec un armement et un blindage de cruiser tank. Ce modèle suscita l'intérêt de l'armée et un contrat pour 120 véhicules fut passé en juin 1941. Il y eut trois versions (Mark) au total.
At the end of 1941, the armoured car regiments had acquired much experience following the fighting in Libya, but their equipment consisted mainly of Marmon-Herringtons too lightly armed to attack the axis armoured cars. The firm AEC aware of the problem developed on own funds a vehicle on wheels (Matador chassis) with armament and armor from a cruiser tank. This model aroused the interest of the army and a contract for 120 vehicles was passed in June 1941. There were three versions (Mark) in total.
AEC mkIII armoured car (source internet)
At the end of 1941, the armoured car regiments had acquired much experience following the fighting in Libya, but their equipment consisted mainly of Marmon-Herringtons too lightly armed to attack the axis armoured cars. The firm AEC aware of the problem developed on own funds a vehicle on wheels (Matador chassis) with armament and armor from a cruiser tank. This model aroused the interest of the army and a contract for 120 vehicles was passed in June 1941. There were three versions (Mark) in total.
AEC mkIII armoured car (source internet)
Fox armoured car :
Pour augmenter la production des auto-mitrailleuses Humber/Guy, un contrat de 200 véhicules similaires fut passé avec le Canada. Ce modèle construit sur chassis et moteur GMC fut dénommé armoured car, General Motors Mark I puis Fox I à sa sortie en 1942 mais ne fut pas suivi d'autres commandes.
To increase the production of the Humber / Guy armoured cars, a contract for 200 similar vehicles was made with Canada. This model built on frame and engine GMC was called armoured car, General Motors Mark I and later Fox I in 1942 but was not followed by other orders.
Fox armoured car (source internet)
To increase the production of the Humber / Guy armoured cars, a contract for 200 similar vehicles was made with Canada. This model built on frame and engine GMC was called armoured car, General Motors Mark I and later Fox I in 1942 but was not followed by other orders.
Fox armoured car (source internet)
Coventry armoured car :
Les modèles Daimler et Humber ayant chacun des inconvénients, il fut décider de rationnaliser la production en concevant un nouveau modèle d'auto-mitrailleuse qui comporterait les meilleurs éléments des deux précédents véhicules. Le modèle fut dénommé coventry armoured car ce furent les usines Daimler et Humber basées à Coventry qui le produisirent. La coventry roula en 1944 et un contrat de 1150 puis 550 fut passé mais annulé à la fin de la guerre, les quelques modèles sortis furent vendus à la France et partirent en Indochine.
With the Daimler and Humber models each having their own drawbacks, it was decided to rationalize production by designing a new model of armoured car that would include the best elements of the two previous vehicles. The model was called coventry armoured car because it was the Daimler and Humber factories based in Coventry that produced it. The coventry rolled in 1944 and a contract of 1150 then 550 was passed but canceled at the end of the war, the few models released were sold to France and went to Indochina.
Coventry armoured car (source internet)
With the Daimler and Humber models each having their own drawbacks, it was decided to rationalize production by designing a new model of armoured car that would include the best elements of the two previous vehicles. The model was called coventry armoured car because it was the Daimler and Humber factories based in Coventry that produced it. The coventry rolled in 1944 and a contract of 1150 then 550 was passed but canceled at the end of the war, the few models released were sold to France and went to Indochina.
Coventry armoured car (source internet)
Nombre de véhicules :
production numbers:
production numbers:
Morris CS9/LAC : 99
Guy Mark I : 50 - Mark IA : 51
Daimler Mark I et II : 2694
Humber Mark I(dont 500)/II/III/IV : 5400
AEC Mark I(dont 120)/II/III : 629
Fox I : 200
Coventry : 220
III - Scout cars :
En 1938, suite aux bonnes performances des prototypes Steyr dans la compétition des auto-mitrailleuses, il fut décidé de créer une nouvelle classe de véhicules : les scout car. Trois firmes furent choisies pour proposer des prototypes (Alvis, Morris, BSA). A noter que Lanchester fut absorbé par BSA en 1931. Les tests furent menés à partir d'Aout 1938. A noter aussi que le modèle d'Alvis était déjà appelé Dingo. La décision finale attribua un premier contrat à la firme BSA puis BSA/Daimler pour 172 véhicules nommés « cars, scout, Mark I » en mai 1939.
In 1938, following the good performance of the Steyr prototypes in the armoured car competition, it was decided to create a new class of vehicles: the scout car. Three firms were chosen to propose prototypes (Alvis, Morris, BSA). Note that Lanchester was absorbed by BSA in 1931. The tests were conducted from August 1938 on. Note also that the model of Alvis was already called Dingo. The final decision awarded BSA and then BSA / Daimler a first contract for 172 vehicles named "cars, scout, Mark I" in May 1939.
le modèle steyr (adsk) utilisé pour les tests de 1938 (source internet)
BSA/Daimler scout car :
In 1938, following the good performance of the Steyr prototypes in the armoured car competition, it was decided to create a new class of vehicles: the scout car. Three firms were chosen to propose prototypes (Alvis, Morris, BSA). Note that Lanchester was absorbed by BSA in 1931. The tests were conducted from August 1938 on. Note also that the model of Alvis was already called Dingo. The final decision awarded BSA and then BSA / Daimler a first contract for 172 vehicles named "cars, scout, Mark I" in May 1939.
le modèle steyr (adsk) utilisé pour les tests de 1938 (source internet)
BSA/Daimler scout car :
Ce sont les plus connues et les plus produites des scout cars, elles furent surnommées dingo.
These are the best known and most produced scout cars, they were nicknamed dingo.
BSA/Daimler scout car "Dingo" (source internet)
These are the best known and most produced scout cars, they were nicknamed dingo.
BSA/Daimler scout car "Dingo" (source internet)
Lynx scout car :
Comme pour les Daimler et Guy, il fut demandé à l'industrie canadienne de participer à la production et un véhicule similaire sur chassis Ford Canada fut conçu. Dénommé Cars, Scout, Mark III puis à sa sortie Lynx I et dans une version améliorée Lynx II, 3255 véhicules sortirent d'usine pendant la seconde guerre mondiale.
As with the Daimler and Guy, the Canadian industry was asked to participate in the production and a similar vehicle on Ford Canada chassis was designed. Called Cars, Scout, Mark III and later Lynx I, and in an upgraded Lynx II version, 3255 vehicles came out of production during the Second World War.
Lynx scout car (source internet)
As with the Daimler and Guy, the Canadian industry was asked to participate in the production and a similar vehicle on Ford Canada chassis was designed. Called Cars, Scout, Mark III and later Lynx I, and in an upgraded Lynx II version, 3255 vehicles came out of production during the Second World War.
Lynx scout car (source internet)
Humber scout car :
Il fut demandé à la firme Humber de concevoir elle aussi une scout car. Le premier contrat fut passé à la fin 1942 pour 4000 puis 300 véhicules dénommés Cars, Scout, Humber Mark I. Il y eut deux versions (Mark).
Humber was asked to design a scout car too. The first contract was passed at the end of 1942 for 4000 then 300 vehicles called Cars, Scout, Humber Mark I. There were two versions (Mark).
Humber scout car (source internet)
Humber was asked to design a scout car too. The first contract was passed at the end of 1942 for 4000 then 300 vehicles called Cars, Scout, Humber Mark I. There were two versions (Mark).
Humber scout car (source internet)
Nombre de véhicules :
Production numbers:
Production numbers:
BSA/Daimler Mark I/IA/IB/II/III Dingo: 6626
Lynx Mark I/II : 3255
Humber Mark I/II : 4300
IV - Light reconnaissance cars :
En 1941 des régiments de reconnaissance furent formés pour équiper les divisions d'infanterie et remplacer les régiments de cavalerie mécanisés. Ils furent équipés de light reconnaissance cars. Ces véhicules étaient issus des light armoured cars de 1940. Conçus dans l'urgence après l'évacuation de dunkerque, ils furent fabriqués par les firmes standard Motor Company et Humber toutes deux basées à Coventry.
In 1941 reconnaissance regiments were formed to equip the infantry divisions and replace the mechanized cavalry regiments. They were equipped with light reconnaissance cars. These vehicles came from the light armored cars of 1940. Designed in the emergency after the evacuation of Dunkirk, they were manufactured by the standard firms Motor Company and Humber both based in Coventry.
In 1941 reconnaissance regiments were formed to equip the infantry divisions and replace the mechanized cavalry regiments. They were equipped with light reconnaissance cars. These vehicles came from the light armored cars of 1940. Designed in the emergency after the evacuation of Dunkirk, they were manufactured by the standard firms Motor Company and Humber both based in Coventry.
Beaverette light armoured/reconnaissance car :
Fabriqués par Standard Motor Company, dénommées Beaverettes d'après Lord Beaverbrook, le ministre de la production aéronautique. Ils furent distribués à quelques régiments de cavalerie mécanisés rescapés de Dunkerque, à la Home Guard et à la RAF. Il y eut trois versions (Mark) dont une avec tourelle Boulton Paul Defiant.
Manufactured by Standard Motor Company, named Beaverettes after Lord Beaverbrook, the Minister of Aeronautical Production. They were distributed to some mechanized cavalry regiments survivors of Dunkirk, the Home Guard and the RAF. There were three versions (Mark) including one with a Boulton Paul Defiant turret.
Beaverette mkII light armoured car (source internet)
Voir aussi: http://panzerhubert.blogspot.com/search/label/beaverette%20mk%20II
Manufactured by Standard Motor Company, named Beaverettes after Lord Beaverbrook, the Minister of Aeronautical Production. They were distributed to some mechanized cavalry regiments survivors of Dunkirk, the Home Guard and the RAF. There were three versions (Mark) including one with a Boulton Paul Defiant turret.
Beaverette mkII light armoured car (source internet)
Voir aussi: http://panzerhubert.blogspot.com/search/label/beaverette%20mk%20II
Humberette light armoured/reconnaissance car :
Fabriqués par Humber, dénommés humberettes et pour le premier modèle sans tourelle Ironsides. Ils furent distribués aux régiments de cavalerie rescapés de Dunkerque et à quelques régiments blindés à la place des scout cars. Il y eut trois versions (Mark), la première étant dénommée Ironside.
Made by Humber, called humberettes and for the first model without turret Ironsides. They were distributed to the surviving cavalry regiments of Dunkirk and some armoured regiments in place of the scout cars. There were three versions (Mark), the first being named Ironside.
Humberette mkI Ironside light armoured car (source internet)
Made by Humber, called humberettes and for the first model without turret Ironsides. They were distributed to the surviving cavalry regiments of Dunkirk and some armoured regiments in place of the scout cars. There were three versions (Mark), the first being named Ironside.
Humberette mkI Ironside light armoured car (source internet)
Humberette mkIII light reconnaissance car (source internet)
En janvier 1941, la production des nouvelles auto-mitrailleuses augmentant, les beaverettes et Humberettes devinrent plus disponibles et équipèrent le nouveau reconnaissance corps avec la dénomination de Cars, 4X2, light reconnaissance.
In January 1941, the production of new armoured cars increased, Beaverettes and Humberettes became more available and equipped the new reconnaissance corps with the denomination of Cars, 4X2, light reconnaissance.
In January 1941, the production of new armoured cars increased, Beaverettes and Humberettes became more available and equipped the new reconnaissance corps with the denomination of Cars, 4X2, light reconnaissance.
Morris light reconnaissance car :
Pour augmenter la production, une nouvelle firme - Morris - fut intégrée au projet, et fabriqua la Car, 4X2, light reconnaissance, Morris Mark I. Ce véhicule fut ensuite renommé Morris LRC (light reconnaissance car) et fabriqué en deux versions de 1942 à 1945.
Ces véhicules furent employés surtout dans la Home defence, par la RAF, dans le reconnaissance corps, en tant que véhicules d'état major par différentes unités.
To increase production, a new firm - Morris - was integrated into the project, and manufactured the Car, 4X2, light reconnaissance, Morris Mark I. This vehicle was later renamed Morris LRC (light reconnaissance car) and manufactured in two versions from 1942 to 1945.
These vehicles were used mainly in the home defense, by the RAF, in the reconnaissance corps, as vehicles of staff by various units.
Morris light reconnaissance car (source internet)
To increase production, a new firm - Morris - was integrated into the project, and manufactured the Car, 4X2, light reconnaissance, Morris Mark I. This vehicle was later renamed Morris LRC (light reconnaissance car) and manufactured in two versions from 1942 to 1945.
These vehicles were used mainly in the home defense, by the RAF, in the reconnaissance corps, as vehicles of staff by various units.
Morris light reconnaissance car (source internet)
Otter :
Comme pour d'autres véhicules, il fut demandé au Canada de participer au programme et ses usines sortirent en 1942 l'Otter ou Car, Light Reconnaissance, Canadian GM Mark I ou à sa sortie Otter I.
As with other vehicles, Canada was asked to participate in the program, and in 1942, its plants produced the Otter or Car, Light Reconnaissance, Canadian GM Mark I, or Otter I.
As with other vehicles, Canada was asked to participate in the program, and in 1942, its plants produced the Otter or Car, Light Reconnaissance, Canadian GM Mark I, or Otter I.
Otter light reconnaissance car (source internet)
Nombre de véhicules :
Production numbers:
Production numbers:
Beaverettes : 2800
Humberettes : 3600 (inclus 400 Ironsides)
Morris LRC : 2250
Otter : 1761
V - Organisation :
armoured cars :
Les deux premiers régiments de cavalerie a être mécanisés furent le 11th Hussars et le 12th Royal Lancers en 1928. En 1939, les seules auto-mitrailleuses modernes de l'armée Britannique sont les 99 morris CS9 et les six light tank, wheeled Mark I Guy. Seul le 12thRoyal Lancers fut engagé en France en 1940 et y perdit tous ses véhicules. A la suite de cette campagne les combats se déplacèrent en Lybie et c'est là que furent employées en masse les Marmon-Herrington (auto-mitrailleuses Sud-Africaine commandées en urgence à 1000 exemplaires) au côté des Rolls existantes. Il est à noter que la RAF possèdait ses propres auto-mitrailleuses (12) Alvis-Straussler AC3 pour ses bases du moyent-orient.
The first two cavalry regiments to be mechanized were the 11th Hussars and the 12th Royal Lancers in 1928. In 1939, the only modern armoured cars of the British army were the 99 morris CS9 and the six light tanks, wheeled Mark I Guy . Only the 12th Royal Lancers was engaged in France in 1940 and lost all its vehicles. As a result of this campaign the fighting moved to Libya and it was there that the Marmon-Herrington (South African armoured cars ordered urgently to 1000 copies) were used in large numbers alongside the existing Rolls. It should be noted that the RAF had its own Alvis-Straussler AC3 armoured cars (12) for its Middle East bases.
The first two cavalry regiments to be mechanized were the 11th Hussars and the 12th Royal Lancers in 1928. In 1939, the only modern armoured cars of the British army were the 99 morris CS9 and the six light tanks, wheeled Mark I Guy . Only the 12th Royal Lancers was engaged in France in 1940 and lost all its vehicles. As a result of this campaign the fighting moved to Libya and it was there that the Marmon-Herrington (South African armoured cars ordered urgently to 1000 copies) were used in large numbers alongside the existing Rolls. It should be noted that the RAF had its own Alvis-Straussler AC3 armoured cars (12) for its Middle East bases.
Scout cars :
Le premier emploi opérationnel des scout cars se fit en France avec deux pelotons (21 véhicules) rattachés au 4th Bn, Royal Northumberland Fusiliers. Les scout cars furent aussi utilisées dans les HQ régimentaires et d'escadrons de la 1st Armoured Division.
The first operational use of scout cars was in France with two platoons (21 vehicles) attached to 4th Bn, Royal Northumberland Fusiliers. Scout cars were also used in the Regimental HQs and Squadrons of the 1st Armored Division.
The first operational use of scout cars was in France with two platoons (21 vehicles) attached to 4th Bn, Royal Northumberland Fusiliers. Scout cars were also used in the Regimental HQs and Squadrons of the 1st Armored Division.
Light reconnaissance cars :
Avant 1941, les light reconnaissance car étaient dénommées light armoured cars. C'était ces véhicules conçus dans l'urgence après le réembarquement de Dunkerque et la menace d'invasion. En janvier 1941, de nouveaux régiments de reconnaissance furent créés pour les divisions d'infanterie et ces light armoured cars devinrent des light reconnaissance cars. Elles furent employées surtout dans les HQ régimentaires et d'escadrons.
Before 1941, light reconnaissance cars were called light armoured cars. these were the vehicles designed in emergency after the re-embarkation of Dunkirk and the threat of invasion. In January 1941, new reconnaissance regiments were created for the infantry divisions and these light armoured cars became light reconnaissance cars. They were used mainly in regiments HQs and squadrons HQ.
Before 1941, light reconnaissance cars were called light armoured cars. these were the vehicles designed in emergency after the re-embarkation of Dunkirk and the threat of invasion. In January 1941, new reconnaissance regiments were created for the infantry divisions and these light armoured cars became light reconnaissance cars. They were used mainly in regiments HQs and squadrons HQ.
Les British armoured car regiments étaient dévolus aux armoured divisions et les reconnaissance regiment aux Infantry Divisions.
The British armoured car regiments were attached to armored divisions and reconnaissance regiments to Infantry Divisions.
The British armoured car regiments were attached to armored divisions and reconnaissance regiments to Infantry Divisions.
British armoured car regiment 1938-1940 (12th Royal Lancers) :
Seules sont notées les armoured cars
Only armoured cars are mentionned
Only armoured cars are mentionned
HQ : 5 Morris CS9 armoured car
Squadron I
II
III - HQ : 2 Morris CS9 armoured car
- troop1
- troop2
- troop3 : 3 Morris CS9 armoured car
Total : 38 ligh armoured cars (Morris CS9/LAC)
British armoured car regiment 1941 :
Seules sont notées les armoured cars
Only armoured cars are mentionned
Only armoured cars are mentionned
Après les premiers combats dans le désert, il fut décidé d'augmenter le nombre de véhicules par régiment car ces unités étaient utilisées plus souvent que les autres, on passa donc de 3 à 5 troops (3 véhicules par troop) par escadron, plus 3 à chaque HQ d'escadron et 4 au HQ régimentaire.
After the first fights in the desert, it was decided to increase the number of vehicles per regiment because these units were used more often than the others, so they changed from 3 to 5 troops (3 vehicles per troop) per squadron, plus 3 at each Squadron HQ and 4 at the Regiment HQ.
After the first fights in the desert, it was decided to increase the number of vehicles per regiment because these units were used more often than the others, so they changed from 3 to 5 troops (3 vehicles per troop) per squadron, plus 3 at each Squadron HQ and 4 at the Regiment HQ.
HQ : 4 armoured cars
Squadron I
II
III - HQ : 3 armoured cars
- troop1
- troop2
- troop3
- troop4
- troop5 : 3 armoured cars
Total : 58 armoured cars
Après la campagne de France , les combats se déplacèrent dans le désert lybien. Les auto-mitrailleuses britanniques étaient alors des Rolls et des Morris puis arrivèrent les Marmon-Herringtons mais toutes peu armées (mitrailleuse bren et fusil anti-char Boys) alors qu'en face les auto-mitrailleuses de l'axe étaient équipées de canons. Il fallut ensuite attendre septembre 1941 pour voir arriver les premières Humber, puis 1942 pour les premières AEC, juillet 1942 pour les premières Daimler et octobre 1942 pour les humber Mark III. Les combats dans le désert amenèrent une demande pour des véhicules plus gros emportant un armement plus important. Des contacts avec l'industrie américaine aboutirent à la construction des auto-mitrailleuses Staghound, mais ces
véhicules arrivèrent trop tard pour la guerre en Afrique.
After the French campaign, the fighting moved in the Lybian desert. The British armoured cars were then Rolls and Morris then arrived Marmon-Herringtons but all badly armed (machine gun bren and anti-tank rifle Boys) while the axis armoured cars were equipped with guns. It was not until September 1941 that the first Humber arrive, then 1942 for the first AEC, July 1942 for the first Daimler and October 1942 for the humber Mark III. Fighting in the desert brought a demand for larger vehicles carrying heavier weapons. Contacts with the American industry led to the construction of the Staghound armoured cars, but these vehicles arrived too late for the war in Africa.
After the French campaign, the fighting moved in the Lybian desert. The British armoured cars were then Rolls and Morris then arrived Marmon-Herringtons but all badly armed (machine gun bren and anti-tank rifle Boys) while the axis armoured cars were equipped with guns. It was not until September 1941 that the first Humber arrive, then 1942 for the first AEC, July 1942 for the first Daimler and October 1942 for the humber Mark III. Fighting in the desert brought a demand for larger vehicles carrying heavier weapons. Contacts with the American industry led to the construction of the Staghound armoured cars, but these vehicles arrived too late for the war in Africa.
British armoured car regiment 1943 :
Seules sont notés les armoured/ scout cars
Only armoured cars are mentionned
Only armoured cars are mentionned
Après la guerre en Afrique, les besoins furent revus à la hausse et un quatrième escadron fut rajouté, ce qui donna comme véhicules :
After the war in Africa, the needs were revised upwards and a fourth squadron was added, which means:
After the war in Africa, the needs were revised upwards and a fourth squadron was added, which means:
HQ : 1 Daimler scout car
12 Humber scout cars
1 Daimler Armoured Car
3 Staghound Armoured Cars
4 Humber AA Armoured Cars
1 Armoured command vehicle
Squadron I
II
III
IV - HQ : 1 Daimler scout car
1 Daimler Armoured Car
3 Staghound Armoured Cars
- reconnaissance troop1
- reconnaissance troop2
- reconnaissance troop3
- reconnaissance troop4
- reconnaissance troop5 : 2 Daimler scout car
2 Daimler Armoured Car
- support troop : 1 Daimler scout car
- anti-tank section
Total : 125 armoured/scout cars
Reconnaissance regiment ( infantry division) :
Seules sont notés les armoured/light reconnaissance cars
Only armoured/light reconnaissance cars are mentionned
Only armoured/light reconnaissance cars are mentionned
HQ : anti-tank, signal and mortar troops
Reconnaissance Squadron I
II
III - Scout troop1
- Scout troop2
- Scout troop3 - Armoured car section (2 Humber ou 2 Daimler)
- Light reconnaissance car section (2 véhicules)
- Assault troop
- Assault troop
total : 28 armoured cars et 24 light reconnaissance cars
