[ATTACH]191107[/ATTACH]
[ATTACH]191108[/ATTACH]
[ATTACH]191109[/ATTACH]
[ATTACH]191110[/ATTACH]
I think I may have sorted the mystery of the Stirling Mk IV nose Aeronut.Looking through my files,it seems there are two nose configurations for the Stirling MkIV.
One seems to be the type in your photo( LJ647 in Haren,1944 if i`m not mistaken) where there is just a holder for 3 containers (markers?) where the front turret used to be.You`ll also notice in the poor interior shot(bottom) that the nose structure is missing the platform where the gunners/observers feet rested.
The second type has the foot platform (see A.P. pic No. 36) mounted on the nose structure,I have one of these and mistakenly called it a seat before. This is made of wood and measures 12 ” square and made of 12″x 1 1/2″ x 3/4″ bits of pine 4 in number. The observer sits in a seat sling (40)which is made of 6″ webbing of the type used in seat harnesses.To support his back there is also a laced backsling (37) made of 6″ webbing.On a small raised platform in front of him is a chart /map table (39),in front mounted on the inner skin of the aircraft are the paratroop signal switches and lights(38).
From this info I assume latter type is a paratroop configuration and the other type is possibly for special ops and supply drops.
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