Army & Navy - EQUIPMENT: Pipe Dream

Over 60% by weight of all battle supplies consists of oil and gasoline. The early desert campaigns convinced soldiers that old methods of distributing this colossal load under fire were too slow and vulnerable. In use this week in Italy, after a North African debut, was the Army's battle-tested successor: portable pipelines.

New Twist. For maximum portability the Army's engineers and industrial experts designed light-gauge (4 or 6 in.) steel pipe spirally constructed, like a soda straw. A 20-ft. section weighs less than 100 Ib. Sections are joined by special couplings which can be fitted in...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!