M132 for MKB Strassburg

Leitstand for Batterie Strassburg 3./M.A.A 604

L./M.B.3

The site on the Jerbourg Peninsula was earmarked for the construction of one of three planned 15cm SK C/28 batteries for Guernsey. The advanced nature of these guns necessitated an equally advanced rangefinding system, something that the type M132 and M120 was especially capable of. These fortress standard bunkers both shared the same optical equipment, two armored cupolas for observation, and a 5m rangefinder. The M132 also featured a lower floor, which provided accommodation, while the M120 did not. Clearly visible in the design of the bunker, is its naval influence. The sharp point at the front resembles the prow of a ship, and the 5m rangefinder is very similar to those found on German warships of the period.

Although the 15cm battery never materialized at Jerbourg, it was still retained by the navy, and became Marine Batterie 3, Strassburg. The M132 became the only bunker here built to Fortress standard, and was aided by several army observation posts positioned on the cliffs surrounding the battery. The bunker survives well today, although the armored parts were destructively removed with explosives and the hole plugged when it was opened to be used as storage. Visible directly in front is the remains of an army observation post that probably served as the early Leitstand for the 22cm guns installed. In 2024 Festung Guernsey began to investigate the possibility of acquiring and restoring the bunker.