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Arming of Italian Merchants in WW 2

Brady

New Member

Arming of Italian Merchants in WW 2



Does anyone know how this was undertaken?

What service was responsible for doing so, I ask because it may not be as obvious as you might think, the IJA was for instance responsible for arming most of the merchants that Japan had at sea.

But I have no idea how the Italians did this.

Was there a doctrine for doing so?

Certain Ship sizes getting a certain gun allocation ?
 

1089maul

Member
Brady,
An interesting question. I have checked my Regia Marina books and am unable to located anything of use for you. The merchant ships only get a passing mention. I have two books on the Regia Marina’s auxiliary vessels which lists the weapons on board but does not give any explanation as to any doctrine. Someone within the forum may have further knowledge.
Regards,
Bob
 

Brady

New Member
What are the two books on the Regis Marina’s auxiliary vessels That list the defensive weapons on the merchant ships that you have, Knowing what merchant ships had what guns and when would be a big help.

Thanks.
 

1089maul

Member
Brady,
Hopefully pictures of the two books are below. I also attach a page of one them which gives you some idea of your the ships are listed. The books do not include ships from the merchant marine. I also attach a copy of a drawing that appears in another book which is a photographic presentation and the Regia Marina and includes a couple photos of merchant ships and drawings. This gives some idea of the types of armament carried.
Bob
 

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Brady

New Member
Thanks, ok so nothing that is specifically in reference to Italian merchants only incidentally.
 

Andreas

New Member
Some of the merchants also carried German guns, when it became necessary to increase anti-air firepower.


All the best

Andreas
 
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