CRDA 60 t Motor Torpedo Boat: A Historical Overview
The Motosilurante CRDA 60 t, commonly referred to as the MS boat, represents a significant class of motor torpedo boats that were constructed for the Regia Marina during World War II. Developed in response to operational challenges faced by earlier Italian fast attack craft, the CRDA 60 t was inspired by the German S-boot designs, which had proven effective in various maritime operations. This unique class of vessels played a notable role during the war and continued to serve in the Italian Navy long after the conflict concluded.
Historical Context and Development
At the onset of World War II, Italy’s Regia Marina relied heavily on a fleet of MAS (Motor Anti-Submarine) boats. These vessels were known for their exceptional speed but often compromised seaworthiness due to their design, which prioritized agility over stability. For instance, the MAS 500-class boats could achieve speeds of up to 45 knots (approximately 52 mph), making them formidable in calm waters. However, as the war progressed, it became evident that their performance was significantly hampered by rough sea conditions.
To address these shortcomings, the Italian Navy sought a more robust alternative that could operate effectively in adverse weather. The solution emerged through the acquisition of several captured Yugoslavian Orjen-class motor torpedo boats, which were built based on early German Schnellboot designs. These vessels, while slower than the MAS boats, featured rounded hulls that provided greater stability in turbulent waters. This strategic acquisition laid the groundwork for Italy’s development of a new class of motor torpedo boats.
Design Features and Specifications
The Cantieri Riuniti dell’Adriatico shipyard in Monfalcone was commissioned to produce a new type of torpedo boat that would not only enhance performance but also improve survivability in challenging maritime environments. The resulting design was designated as CRDA 60 t, reflecting both its builder and its displacement characteristics. These motosiluranti were constructed primarily from wood with steel reinforcements for added durability.
Unlike their German counterparts powered by diesel engines, the CRDA 60 t boats utilized triple Isotta Fraschini Asso 1000 W18 petrol engines derived from the MAS 500 series. Each engine produced approximately 1,150 brake horsepower, enabling these vessels to reach speeds between 34 and 35 knots (about 39-40 mph). The boats typically displaced between 62 and 66 tons and were armed with two 533 mm torpedo tubes and various anti-aircraft guns.
A total of thirty-six CRDA 60 t boats were built between late 1941 and autumn 1943 across two series, with each series featuring minor design modifications. Notable enhancements included a raised bow and redesigned torpedo tubes with hatches for improved functionality.
Operational History During World War II
The CRDA 60 t motor torpedo boats quickly demonstrated their capabilities during wartime operations. One of their most significant achievements occurred during Operation Pedestal in August 1942 when MS boats MS 16 and MS 22 successfully sank the British light cruiser HMS Manchester off Cap Bon. This event marked a pivotal moment as it represented the largest warship sunk by fast torpedo craft throughout the entirety of World War II.
Following this success, two additional CRDA boats were employed in a daring operation where they infiltrated Allied lines in Egypt to conduct sabotage missions against critical infrastructure such as railways and aqueducts. Throughout the Sicilian campaign, night engagements involving MS boats became increasingly frequent as they attempted to disrupt Allied operations.
A notable encounter occurred on July 13, 1943, when MS 71 and MS 63 engaged British destroyers escorting landing forces near Augusta. Although this clash was inconclusive, it underscored the tenacity of Italian naval forces despite overwhelming odds. However, subsequent engagements proved more detrimental; on August 3, American destroyers inflicted significant losses on the Italian fleet with MS 66 being sunk and MS 63 being disabled during naval sweeps off Sicily.
Post-War Service and Legacy
After World War II ended, fourteen of the original thirty-six CRDA motor torpedo boats survived the conflict. However, only nine were incorporated into the newly established Marina Militare due to post-war treaties that mandated restrictions on Italy’s naval capabilities. Six boats were surrendered to Allied nations: four went to the Soviet Union while two were transferred to France.
Under these treaty conditions, Italy’s remaining motor torpedo boats were reclassified as motovedette (patrol boats), losing their torpedoes and receiving new hull numbers. It wasn’t
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