RAF Interception Plotter Mk.III

Anne,

Thanks. I assume this is the photo you were referring to, showing the Craig Computer in use in the GCI Interception Cabin at Sopley. I’ve yet to find an image of one in use by the ROC, but I assume they must have been used in Group Centres.

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Also used by the RAF. I’ve seen pictures of a WAAF using one at a GCI Station.

Anne

I have the same unit as given to me by a friend. strangely yours is missing the white strap that fastens it securely together..

Mark,

Thanks for your interesting point, which I can’t necessarily answer. All I know is that the example I know of was given to an aviation museum by one of the Group Headquarters of the ROC in 1992 just after disbandment. It was given as part of around 200 objects all of which are items of ROC equipment from wartime or post-war date. Although I don’t really know anything about the function or use of this particular item, I see no reason why this alone would be the only non-ROC item to appear within the rest of that collection. Having come from an ROC Group Headquarters, I think they knew what they were giving the museum. All in all, I’m certain this is ROC (although it may have been used elsewhere).

I had never considered the possibility that the plotter might not be for airborne use. Having re-read the installation and use instructions that came with mine this is a distinct possibility but I’m not convinced yet. Doesn’t the fact that it has a 6B/ stores reference number define it as Aircraft Navigation Equipment? If they were for the ROC why would any end up in Canada? Mine was one of two found here at a flea market in the 80’s, and I know someone else who has two of them. Stuart, I will email you a pdf version of the instructions. Incidentally, the instructions call it a Craig Computor. The file is slightly too large to attach here. The last revision date on the large label inside the lid is 1951.

Regards
Mark Brumwell

Stuart,

I’d be very interested to know if you manage to find out more about this bit of kit. I know virtually nothing about them but would love to know more about what they were used for, etc. I can find no reference to them in Derek Wood’s history of the ROC, Attack Warning Red, but there must be information somewhere.

Thanks Ian, interesting!! This information provides some direction to my research. I will research some of the ROC’s veteran societies websites I know exist.

Stuart

This was used by the Royal Observer Corps. I believe it is wartime equipment, but that’s about as much as I know.