Mk 29 gun sight for GFCS Mk 63

**Len Lundh** · 27 Jul 09,, 04:41

I'm doing a book on the Asheville-class gunboats, and need photos of the Mk 29 gun sight associated with the Mk 63 Gun Fire Control System. These were also used on the Iwo Jima-class LPHs and Newport News-class LSTs. Any help will be appreciated.

Len Lundh

**Dreadnought** · 27 Jul 09,, 15:42

Canadian Navy Fire Control systems. Tribal class destroyers.

Canadian Navy Fire Control Systems

*About half way down the page.

Installed on DDE refitted Tribal class destroyers, as well as the refitted ALGONQUIN and CRESCENT for the control of 4"/45 and 3"/50 guns. The Mk.63 system consisted of the Mk.29 gunsight and the SPG 34 gunnery radar system (29 + 34 = 63), and in the case of the Tribal class there were two separate Mk.63 systems installed (one forward, one aft). On the Tribals, the SPG 34 antennas were installed directly on the 4" "B" mounting and the 3" "X" mounting. The two Mk.29 gun sights were mounted forward on the bridge (in the place of the removed director) as well as aft .

**Dreadnought** · 27 Jul 09,, 16:01

More pictures. Better clarity.

Google Image Result for http://hmcshaida.ca/gun_dir.jpg

**Len Lundh** · 27 Jul 09,, 21:13

Thanks. On the PGs, LPHs, and LSTs I crewed as an FTG, the radar was the AN/SPG-50 rather than the 34. On the latter two, the director tubs were much roomier than the picture of the Haida's, while the Ashevilles dispensed with the tub.

Len

**Dreadnought** · 28 Jul 09,, 13:30

Originally Posted by Len Lundh

Thanks. On the PGs, LPHs, and LSTs I crewed as an FTG, the radar was the AN/SPG-50 rather than the 34. On the latter two, the director tubs were much roomier than the picture of the Haida's, while the Ashevilles dispensed with the tub.

Len

Well perhaps if you can get into the basin (*not highly recommmended by boat because of patrols) the Philly Naval Reseve basin has PG-90 USS Cannon tied up on the far side across from the blade shops (behind the three DD's). Not sure how much longer she will be there since she is slated for donation as a museum piece.