During World War II twenty-four 173-foot PCs were modified to Motor Gunboats PGMs (PGM-9 through 32). PGMs were designed to operate with PT boats, supplying them with added fire power. However, the PGMs were to slow to operated effectively in this roll. PGMs were more effective working with minesweepers, blowing up mines as they were cut loose by the sweepers. Converted PCs had their superstructure removed and replaced with a smaller protected pilot house. The mast was shortened and fitted with SO-8 radar and TCS radio gear. All ASW gear, sonar, depth charges, K-guns and Mousetraps were removed. PGMs were armed with one twin 40mm gun mount, six 20mm guns, one twin .50 caliber machine gun and a 60mm mortar.
Note: All Motor Gunboats (PGM)s, hull numbers 84 and greater, in the U. S. Navy inventory 1 April 1967 were redesignated Patrol Gunboats (PG)s. The term Motor Gunboat now applies primarily to craft built for allied navies.
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