Mobile Land Mine

The Mobile Land Mine (originally named "Beetle") was an experimental British World War II remote-controlled tracked explosive device.[1] It was wire guided and powered by two electric motors.[1]

The Mobile Land Mine was designed by Metropolitan-Vickers in 1940.[1]

After a successful demonstration in August 1941 an order for 50 was placed so that trials could be carried out.[2] In 1942 Commander-in-Chief, Home Forces reported that it was not recommended as there was no requirement for it. It was underpowered, slow, the motors overheated and it couldn't cross typical battlefield terrain - it was finally rejected by the General Staff in 1944.[2]

Among other trials a Mobile Land Mine was waterproofed and equipped with floats allowing it to be used against landing craft.[1]

See also

Notes
  1. Foss, McKenzie, pp.130–131
  2. Everett p476-477

References
  • The Royal Armoured Corps Journal. 10–11: 69. 1956. Missing or empty |title= (help)
  • Everett, H. R. (13 November 2015), Unmanned Systems of World Wars I and II, MIT Press, pp. 476–477, ISBN 9780262331760 – via Google Books
  • Foss, Christopher F; McKenzie, Peter (1988). The Vickers Tanks: From Landships to Challenger. Patrick Stephens Limited. pp. 130–131. ISBN 1-85260-141-8.


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