Types and Technical Specifications of British General Purpose Aerial Bombs Used During World War II
Copyright (c) 2025 Tótok Dávid István
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Abstract
The British manufactured general purpose aerial bombs used during World War II possessed several technical and military-engineering characteristics that remain relevant for modern explosive ordnance disposal activities. An analysis of the weight of British aerial bombs, ranging from 40 to 4,000 pounds, provides an opportunity to analyse the structural characteristics of bomb types, the use of explosives and the firing mechanisms. The study also touches upon less commonly used explosive materials – such as Amatex, Composition Exploding (C.E.), and the A.S.A. mixture – and presents the design and operation of high-risk initiation systems. The author’s aim is to support the development of essential knowledge among EOD personnel, with particular focus on the identification and technical interpretation of British origin explosive ordnance from the Second World War.
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