Why the HE/T Mk II 85g for the QF 2-pounder was Developed Late in 1942: An Analysis of Historical Context and Limitations

In the tumultuous period of World War II, the British military faced several significant challenges that delayed the development of the HE/T Mk II 85g shell for the QF 2-pounder anti-tank and anti-aircraft gun. This article delves into the historical context, technical considerations, and economic constraints that contributed to the delayed production and adoption of this weapon, focusing on the QF 2-pounder's role and the essential factors that influenced its development timeline.

The Historical Context

By the early 1940s, the United Kingdom was grappling with the aftermath of the disastrous evacuation of Dunkirk. The economic and logistical challenges were formidable, with the need to rapidly replace lost equipment and maintain an efficient production line for ongoing warfare operations. After the evacuation, the UK lost a significant portion of its heavy equipment, tanks, artillery, and small arms, which put immense pressure on the country's industrial capacity.

In addition, the submarine warfare tactics employed by the German Wolf Packs further exacerbated the situation. The Royal Navy was under constant threat, impeding the import of vital materials and supplies. The situation was desperate, with even the basic task of equipping soldiers with rifles becoming a these dire conditions, the British military priorities shifted towards immediate needs, such as replenishing lost supplies and ensuring basic battlefield functionality. The development of new weapons and ammunition, including the HE/T Mk II 85g for the QF 2-pounder, was not a priority until later in the war.

Technical Considerations

While there were military doctrines and technical rationales that delayed the development of the HE/T Mk II 85g, it is important to note that the 2-pounder HE/T round existed somewhat before the full context of World War II. The projectile used in this round was already adapted from the 2-pounder pom-pom anti-aircraft gun, showcasing the need for versatility in British military weapons.

However, there were some specific technical issues related to ballistics and performance that needed addressing. The Royal Artillery personnel were concerned about maintaining their funding and operational roles. They had established practices and doctrines that discouraged the 2-pounder from being used as a substitute for field guns, fearing that this might jeopardize their status and funding. Furthermore, the idea of designing a shell that could rapidly switch between anti-tank and anti-aircraft roles was met with skepticism. The finite time and resources available meant that any new weapon development needed to be both practical and efficient.

Historically, the 2-pounder was primarily designed for anti-aircraft use, and its adoption for anti-tank duties only became necessary later in the war. The Royal Navy's own 2-pounder HE/T projectiles, used effectively, also illustrate the success of modular and adaptable weapon systems.

Economic and Strategic Considerations

The economic consequences of the war played a crucial role in the delayed development of the HE/T Mk II 85g. The UK's factories were 100% committed to replacing the equipment lost during the Dunkirk evacuation, a task that required urgent attention. The government and military realized the dire need to focus on immediate needs and began to prioritize more severely in late 1941 and early 1942.

The success of the Lend-Lease program and the turning tide in North Africa (Operation Torch) allowed the British to redirect their focus towards developing better weapons, including the 2-pounder HE/T round. These factors, combined with improved production capabilities and the alleviation of immediate supply pressures, made the HE/T Mk II 85g round a feasible and prioritized development after 1942.

The Tactactical Impact

The development of the HE/T Mk II 85g round was not just a technical or economic impasse. It also reflected a broader change in military doctrine. Until 1942, the British military saw the 2-pounder as primarily an anti-aircraft weapon. However, the changing nature of warfare on the ground led to a need for a dual-purpose main gun in tanks. The HE/T Mk II 85g round was designed to meet this need, providing a more versatile weapon for modern battlefield conditions.

Early in the war, the British developed another solution through the use of a 50mm mortar fuze and a simple method of injecting melted TNT into a standard shell. This makeshift solution was a quick and effective, albeit less ideal, way to adapt the 2-pounder for anti-tank use. This temporary solution underscored the urgency and practicality of rapid weapon adaptation in wartime.

Nevertheless, the development of the HE/T Mk II 85g was a more structured and comprehensive approach. Although it involved melted TNT, it was a more refined solution that aligned with the evolving needs of the battlefield. The ratio of 66 meters for HE rounds was a practical and easy-to-remember adjustment that improved the operation of the 2-pounder in various combat scenarios.

During the first few shots, the 2-pounder often needed to "bracket" its targets, firing a series of shots to find the optimal range and angle. This process, while effective, was less precise than using a dedicated HE round. The HE/T Mk II 85g aimed to streamline this process, making the 2-pounder a more effective anti-tank and anti-aircraft weapon by the late stages of the war.

Conclusion

The delayed development of the HE/T Mk II 85g for the QF 2-pounder was a combination of historical context, technical considerations, and economic constraints. Although the British faced significant challenges in the early years of World War II, the success of the Lend-Lease program and the North African victories provided the necessary impetus to focus on developing better weapons. The HE/T Mk II 85g represents a significant evolution in the 2-pounder's capabilities, marking a transition towards a more versatile and adaptable weapon system in the later stages of the war.