M24 received a 9.2-inch gun from the Edgar-class cruiser HMS Endymion and four-cylinder Campbell paraffin engines because conventional machinery was scarce. It was one of the Royal Navy's earliest gas-powered ships, although claims to an absolute first are difficult to prove among small craft. Its heavy gun later went to the Western Front and a 7.5-inch weapon replaced it. Before Northern Russian service, the monitor also received newer anti-aircraft weapons, probably including an improved two-pounder design that led toward the pom-pom.
Notable Point · 32:05-34:14
M24 and the Royal Navy's early gas-powered experiments
Engine shortages made M24 an early Royal Navy gas-powered vessel, while its recycled cruiser gun and later rearmament typify emergency adaptation.