Category: ALB

There were many teething troubles with the lifeboat, its gear and understanding of to use them. The ground and aircraft crews needed training and practice in their use and deployment. A significant operation for 279 squadron took place on 17th February 1943 when one of their Hudsons undertook their first traing drop of an airborne lifeboat.… Continue reading Training – 279’s First lifeboat drop

No 279 Squadron’s Hudsons eventually became operational with lifeboats in January 1943. The lifeboats were well provided with signalling aids plus sufficient food, drink and comforts, including waterproof suits and first aid kit, to cover seven day’s requirements for a crew of seven. To assist the survivors on their voyage, a compass and charts were… Continue reading 279 Squadron Hudsons operational with Mark I

Although the hull and concept were now agreed development was taking a long time due to finalise design and supply of all of the equipment and gear required, partly because the lifeboat was competing with many other wartime priorities.  Groups Captain writes in January complaining about the delays. Uffa also writes, with his unique style,… Continue reading Development drags on

The development of the Mark I during Spring 1942 led to preliminary tests in August. The following is a summary of key changes from the 20′ prototype tested earlier in the year : Adoption of buoyant ‘counter’ stern as used in Uffa’s canoes. lengthened to 23’2″. waterline beam and freeboard increased through use of tumblehome… Continue reading 23′ Mark I Design confirmed

Photo from the Uffa Fox Archive During January 1942 Uffa Fox discusses proposals for a lifeboat twenty feet long with Director of Technical Services, Deputy Director Air Sea Rescue (Group Captain Waring, who had also been thinking about a lifeboat design with Lieutenant Robb RNVR), parachute and buoyancy suppliers and others. Uffa’s proposal appears to… Continue reading Uffa Fox 20′ lifeboat proposal refines requirements

Uffa enthusiastically pursued the idea.  He experimented with the idea of a folding boat to be carried inside the bomb bay of an aircraft. Uffa writes about this in his book ‘Joys of Life’.  He built cardboard and then scale wooden models for the 20′ folding boat which was unfolded by the action of the… Continue reading Uffa Fox engages with Air Ministry in his own inimitable manner

1941, two years into the war, saw the idea of an Airborne lifeboat put forward. Across the RAF people were applying a great deal of thought to giving ditched crew a greater chance of rescue. In Cowes Uffa was personally involved in the war and the same idea. Was there a way to enable aircrew… Continue reading Idea for airborne lifeboat solidifies