May 8, 2009 at 9:32 pm
Cany anyone confirm the rumour that the Ansons based at RAF Morpeth (4 AGS) had a different turret than is usual. It has been suggested that these Ansons were fitted with a short (as in small) turret similar to the Bristol Blenheim as opposed to the huge birdcage affair normally found. If anyone has a picture that would be even better!
Thanks in advance as always
LL
By: Arabella-Cox - 8th May 2009 at 23:33
The Armstrong Whitworth turret (the birdcage type) was an extremely simple, non-powered, defensive turret for the Anson in its original G.R. role. I doubt it would have been of much use in training Air Gunners destined for powered turrets.
I think the turret you are referring to would be the Bristol (Blenheim) type. This was also fitted to Fairey Battles converted for training use.
Here’s a pic found on t’net.