3.7 inch SP
Pending the publication of Doug's book on the 3.7 inch gun pp 60-72 of my "Secret Weapons of the Canadian Army" (Service Publications, 2006) provides an account of the Ram 3.7 inch AA project. While the SP was deemed unsuitable in an anti-aircraft role, and too vulnerable, due to its high silhouette and lack of protection, for use in a ground role, CMHQ did give some mental consideration to mounting a 17-pounder or 3.7-inch AA gun mounted on the Ram Sexton chassis.
In Ottawa, in April/May, 1943, the Director of Artillery did a paper study of an assault gun using a 3.7 inch gun mounted in a Grizzly chassis, however the British were no it interested. The paper studies argued that compared to the 17-pounder, the 3.7 inch gun would have marginally (5mm) superior armour penetration out to 1,000 yards, and significantly better beyond that range. It could also fire heavier HE rounds.
I have just come across a memo written by Tommy Burns on 3 May,1943 reviewing the experiences of tank warfare in North Africa. He noted that German Mk.IV (specials) and Mk.VI tanks could successfully engage allied tanks out to 2000yards,and while the M3 75mm on the Sherman could deal with German 75and 88mm guns and SPs at those ranges, their tanks were invulnerable. There were three possible tanks under development that could take them on: the A30 Challenger with a 17-pounder, the US T20 with a 76mm gun and the British TOG2 with a 3.7-inch gun. Burns considered the HE round on the 17-pounder inadequate, while the TOG2 was too big and ponderous. Burns suggested that consideration be given to mounting the 3.7 inch gun in the Challenger or interesting the British in a heavy 3.7 inch SP.
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