Fairmile D "Dog Boat"

[waynemac]

All the recent activity in small naval combatants motivated me to add my contribution. This model, the Fairmile D or "Dog Boat", is in 1/300 scale, since my usual scale of 1/600 was much too small. This is a beta test for fit. I put 21" torpedoes on one side and 18" on the other, since the fit beneath the catwalks is a bit different for each type. The final model will include templates for the different mast types. I am still tweaking the parts.

The model is waterline and I plan on several variations, since there were many differences among the 229 "D's" built during WW2. Some were classed as MGB (motor gun boat) armed with a heavy punch of 2 pdr, 6 pdr,, 20mm, .50 cal and .303 cal weapons; a 4.5" howitzer was developed too late to see action in the war. The MTB (motor torpedo boat) version was armed with either 18" or 21" torpedoes and slightly less powerful guns to compensate for the weight of the torpedoes and launchers. Some were employed as minelayers and long range rescue boats. Some carried a few depth charges.

The models are based on "The Fairmile 'D' ", by John Lambert (one of the "Anatomy of the Ship" series by Conway Maritime Press and "Allied Coastal Forces of World War II" by John Lambert and Al Ross, by Naval Institute Press.

I will use mostly photographs of my beta-builds for the instructions.
When I find the time, I will develop this into a 1/150 full-hull model.

Wayne

[southwestforests]

Cool.
The category of small naval combatants is one where I have very little knowledge but am interested in them.
Ah, Naval Institute Press, they have some good publications. Do have a couple books by them. Also remember that during Dad's USN career in 60s, 70s, 80s, he got their Proceedings magazine.
Remember the very high quality of the entries in their photography contests.
And the paintings available to buy.
And the cover art of future ships, SES, Surface Effect Ships, and such.
And Robert F. Sumrall's articles on WW1 and WW2 ship camouflage.
Wish the ones I had saved hadn't gotten lost in the course of my life and moves.

[Gerry1966]

Great work, as usual!

[Don Boose]

Excellent choice and a great model.

Don

[wireandpaper]

Very nice! The Dog boats are on mi favorite list. Thank you for sharing.

[Sturmwind]

Fantastic, thanks for taking on the Fairmile D. It is looking excellent.
I have a soft spot for Coastal Forces and will be following your progress closely.

[Mike1158]

Very nice piece there mate.

[Beachead]

Great topic and builds. Nice to see more effort in the little known boats and ships.

[wireandpaper]

Bty, there show a few Families at the end of the movie that Foute Man recommended in the HMS Cambelton tread.

[wireandpaper]

correction: HMS Campletown