NAM.1960-10-23-01

Sun compass, 1940 (c). Mounted on brass bracket with three countersunk holes, the compass is in the form of a disc revolving upon an axis, the tension of which is controlled by wing nut underneath. A central disc revolves upon the same axis, and has two sighting balusters diametrically opposite. The outer disc revolves and is controlled by a thumbwheel which can be disengaged. It is gradiated 1-36 on top and 1-180 degrees either way on the side. Used by Indian Long Range Desert Squadron during World War Two. In December 1941 an Indian Squadron of the Long Range Desert Group (LRDG) was raised from volunteers of the 2nd Royal Lancers (Gardner's Horse), Prince Albert Victor's Own Cavalry (11th Frontier Force) and 18th King Edward VII's Own Cavalry. Four patrols were formed, consisting of Jats (J Patrol), Mussalmans (M Patrol), Rajputs (R Patrol) and Sikhs (S Patrol). Like all LRDG units, they specialised in reconnaissance behind enemy lines, intelligence gathering and desert navigation. In an era before satellite navigation a good compass was essential in the barren and featureless North African desert.

World War Two, North Africa (1940-1945)