THE ARMED MERCHANTMAN.
The t>. Shipping Co.'a Rotorua, which, visited Auckland this week, was the first armed vessel- of the mercantile marine to enter the Waitemata. TJndur a recent arrangement with the Admiralty a number of the larger passenger and cargo steamers carry quick-firers, which are intended mainly to repel attack by torpedo boats and torpedo-boat destroyers in time of war. Against even a third-class cruiser vessels Vith equipment similar to that of the Rotorua would be practically defenceless. It will be seen by the photograph above that the two 4.6 guns are situated on the upper deck aft, the muzzles protruding beyond the taffrail. They ■will propel a 451b shell a distance of 9,600 yards. The type of ammunition used is common shell, armour piercing, and shrapnel. Rapidity of discharge is a feature of the weapon, and as many as 14 rounds a minute may be fired. A number of naval reserve men are members of the crew, and a bo's'n has charge of the gun parties.
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Auckland Star, Volume XLIV, Issue 225, 20 September 1913, Page 13
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168THE ARMED MERCHANTMAN. Auckland Star, Volume XLIV, Issue 225, 20 September 1913, Page 13
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