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Abstract
This paper presents the outcomes of sidescan sonar and archaeological diving surveys in 2015 of two wrecked vessels located off Flotta Island, Orkney, North Scotland. Archival research indicates these are the remains of Anti‐Torpedo Close Protection Pontoons (ATCPP), an experimental protection device used for close protection of naval vessels at anchor in Scapa Flow from attack by aircraft‐launch torpedoes. The pontoons were only in operation in Scapa Flow for 13 months (March 1941–April 1942) and few were brought into service. As such they represent a rare heritage resource, for which very little is known about their operation.
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Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank Historic Scotland (now Historic Environment Scotland) for supporting this project. The vessels were first brought to the attention of the authors by Hazel Weaver after they were dived by Rob Baxandall. Had the site not been reported, a unique heritage asset would have been overlooked and the identity of similar vessels would have remained unconfirmed. Thanks also to Malcolm Thompson and Brett Green who facilitated the data collection.