SA Armour Museum

Crew: 4

Combat Mass: 5.9 t

Armament: 2-pounder (40 mm) QF main gun or Boys anti-tank rifle (early models); 1 x 7.92 mm Besa or Vickers machine gun

Engine: Ford V8 petrol engine; Output: 95 hp @ 3,800 rpm (16.1 hp/t)

Transmission: 4-speed manual transmission

Suspension: 4x4 wheeled suspension with leaf springs

Fording: Without preparation: 0.6 meters

Speed: Road 80 km/h - Cross Country 30 km/h

Operating Range: Road 320 km - Cross Country 200 km

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Development history:

The South African Reconnaissance Car Mk. 3, commonly known as the Marmon-Herrington Mk III, was developed during World War II as a light armored car for use by the South African Army. Designed by the Marmon-Herrington Company in collaboration with South African engineers, the vehicle was intended to meet the needs for a fast, mobile reconnaissance vehicle that could operate effectively in the harsh conditions of the North African desert.

The Mk III was an evolution of the earlier Mk I and Mk II models, featuring improved armor and armament. Early models of the Mk III were equipped with a Boys anti-tank rifle, but later versions were upgraded with the 2-pounder (40 mm) QF main gun, giving it better firepower against enemy armored vehicles. A secondary armament of either a 7.92 mm Besa or Vickers machine gun provided additional firepower for anti-infantry roles.

The Mk III was powered by a Ford V8 petrol engine producing 95 horsepower, giving the vehicle a top road speed of 80 km/h and a cross-country speed of 30 km/h. The 4x4 wheeled suspension with leaf springs provided good mobility across rough terrain, which was essential for reconnaissance missions in desert environments.

With a road operating range of 320 km and a cross-country range of 200 km, the Mk III was capable of long-range patrols and reconnaissance missions. Its fording capability allowed it to cross water obstacles up to 0.6 meters deep without preparation.

The Marmon-Herrington Mk III saw extensive service with the South African Army during the North African campaign, where its speed and mobility were highly valued. It was also used by other Commonwealth forces, including the British Army. The vehicle was relatively easy to produce and maintain, which contributed to its widespread use in various theaters of war.

The Mk III remained in service throughout World War II and was a key component of South Africa's armored car fleet. Its design influenced later South African armored vehicles, and it is remembered as a symbol of the ingenuity and resourcefulness of South African engineers during the war.

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