RNZN MLs of the 80 and 81 Flotilla

Motor Launches (ML), Harbour Defence Motor Launches (HDML) & Rescue Motor Launches (RML)
john r. peake
Seaman
Posts: 8
Joined: Mon Jan 21, 2019 6:23 am

RNZN MLs of the 80 and 81 Flotilla

Postby john r. peake » Sat Feb 23, 2019 4:02 am

Hi All,
Here's a link to some photos taken at their Renard Sound base in the Solomon Islands in 1944-5. These ships were built in Auckland.
Note the ships were repainted in the US Navy colours of light grey/dark grey, as they operated under the US Command.
Their primary role was anti submarine expecting a major attack by the Japanese midget subs.With one of the flotillas the Rolls 2 lb gun was replaced with additional Oerikon 20mm.

cheers
John

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1SSwato ... sp=sharing

David Carter
Sub Lieutenant
Posts: 93
Joined: Tue Jan 18, 2011 6:06 pm

Re: RNZN MLs of the 80 and 81 Flotilla

Postby David Carter » Sat Feb 23, 2019 11:41 am

John
Thank you for the photos. Any NZ readers might like to know that there are two privately restored HDMLs operating. Look on Facebook for Paiea and Kuparu.
Regards
David C.

john r. peake
Seaman
Posts: 8
Joined: Mon Jan 21, 2019 6:23 am

Re: RNZN MLs of the 80 and 81 Flotilla

Postby john r. peake » Mon Mar 04, 2019 6:17 am

Thanks David,

Dad also served on 1348, now Kuparu.
I saw a video on her recent restoration and hope to see her when next I visit NZ.
These ships have endured remarkably well.
Cheers
John


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