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TRUCKS TO DEFENCE OF AUSTRALIA
The important part which Australia's motor vehicles play in her defence plans was indicated by a demonstration given recently at Broadmeadows (Victoria).
Hauling an 18-pounder field gun over broken, hilly country, a Ford V-8 forward control truck gave an impressive performance. The truck and field gun dashed past the group of military experts at speeds up to 40 m.p.h., and, at a given signal, was Drought to a smooth, quick stop. Running at high speeds down grassy inclines, the truck was turned round completely, the field gun facing the "enemy" with dramatic suddenness. The unit already has covered more than 6000 miles. The wheelbase has been specially shortened to 105in., but no other modification was considered necessary. Oversize tyres are fitted to the body, which was specially built at the Ford factory at Geelong to military requirements. The vehicle can carry a crew of six, and 50 rounds of ammunition for the gun. Si-horse teams, each controlled by three drivers, used to be necessary for the work. The mechanical haulage of guns Is speedier, and only one driver is required for each unit.