Title:THE MOBILE FLOTATION UNIT (MFU) [Allocated Title]
Film Number:ADM 184
Other titles:
Summary: Naval instructional film about the Mobile Flotation Unit, a commando boat which can be submerged while the crew hide out on shore, and which will surface automatically at a pre-arranged time.
Description: Function of the MFU is that of a long-range carrier for men and canoes, which may then be used for sabotage operations. The film shows the MFU's parent vessel and describes the boat's speed and endurance, complement, silent running and armament. Graphic display illustrates the main features of construction and the mechanisms for submergence. Film then shows the boat being overhauled, provisioned and sent out on an imaginary operation 200-300 miles beyond the nearest British base. The MFU is towed to within 100 miles of the target and then proceeds to successive lying-up places chosen by Allied agents. The final attack upon the enemy anchorage, located deep in a fjord, is carried out by commandos using kayaks and carrying limpet mines. The film shows the procedure for MFU submergence and recovery, and emphasises the specialised equipment necessary for covert operations - infra-red lamps, silenced weapons, camouflage, etc. A second type of operation - proceeding along an enemy-held coast - is briefly delineated with graphics.