Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:53:34-2:56:27

How capable was radar-assisted Pom-Pom fire control?

Radar could make British directors highly capable, but performance depended on the particular visual director, radar set, target, and installation.

County Class CruisersHigh Angle Control SystemMark 37 Fire ControlNaval Fire ControlPom Pom GunsRadarRoyal Australian NavyRoyal Navy
Watch at this timeFull video guide
Question

How good was the Mark V Pom-Pom director when radar ranging was added?

Short answer

It was a good system, but its value depended on the radar and visual installation; radar-assisted British control could be excellent for some targets and ranges.

Notes

The Mark V was a good director, although results depended on the radar and optical system used together. Radar additions could make the High Angle Control System very capable, with a potential advantage over the Mark 37 in long-range fire against some targets. British 5.25-inch guns offered extra reach over 5-inch weapons. High-elevation 8-inch guns on Australian and some British County-class cruisers could also engage Japanese aircraft circling carrier groups, with HACS providing firing data. Comparisons therefore depend on the target and the particular ship's equipment.