M33 M242 Trailer US

The M242 was the fire-control component of the M33 Anti-Aircraft Fire Control System used by Canada and other NATO countries in the 1950s. 

The M242 radar received data from the M243 (to the right of the M1A1 gun) and accurately tracked a single aircraft target and controlled the laying of anti-aircraft guns.  In Canadian service, it controlled a Troop of four M1A1 90mm guns.

In addition to the M1A1 90mm guns, the M33 system was the fire-control system for the Ajax missile.  It was retired when the M1A1 90mm guns went out of service in 1960.  This example was brought back into service to conduct trials of the CL-89 drone in Shilo 1968-70.  An example of the drone is on display inside the Museum.

Weight: 4 tons

Radar Range: 28,000 yds

M33 System Detachment: 10 men, three fire control trailers, a generator trailer, four towing vehicles and one light truck