Only Two Warships Survived—See Them Roar

Описание: Step aboard and discover the fascinating story of the British Rail Class 42 "Warship" locomotives — once the pride of the Western Region and a bold statement of post-war engineering ambition. Originally designated as the D800 series, these powerful diesel-hydraulics were built between 1958 and 1961 at Swindon Works and took direct inspiration from Germany’s V200 locomotives. But unlike their continental cousins, the Warships had to be reshaped to fit the tight confines of the British loading gauge — resulting in a truly unique hybrid of German design and British ingenuity.

Fitted with twin Maybach MD650 engines, each producing up to 1,135 horsepower, and using Mekydro hydraulic transmissions, the Class 42s were light, quick off the mark, and capable of reaching 90 miles per hour. Their Bo-Bo wheel arrangement and lighter axle load made them ideal for the challenging gradients and winding routes of the West Country, where they often worked prestigious services like the Cornish Riviera Express and the Devon Belle.

Each Warship was proudly named after a Royal Navy vessel — D800 “Sir Brian Robertson”, D821 “Greyhound”, and D832 “Onslaught” among them — reinforcing their identity as powerful, sleek, and battle-ready machines. Painted in a striking green livery with red buffer beams, and later in BR blue with yellow ends, they cut an unmistakable figure on the mainline.

Despite their performance, the Warships faced an uphill battle. British Rail soon shifted its focus toward diesel-electric standardisation, and by 1972, the entire class had been withdrawn — after barely a decade in service. It was a premature end for what many enthusiasts still consider one of BR’s most elegant and advanced locomotive classes.

Thankfully, not all was lost. Two Class 42s survive in preservation — D821 “Greyhound”, now owned by the Diesel Traction Group, and D832 “Onslaught”, cared for by the Bury Hydraulic Group. Both locomotives remain in working order and occasionally run on preserved railways, giving new generations a taste of their raw power and Cold War-era charm.

In this video, we’ll explore the origins, design, service life, and legacy of the Class 42 Warships — answering the question: could these locomotives have changed the future of British railways, if given the chance?

Whether you're a seasoned rail enthusiast, a history lover, or just curious about one of Britain’s most distinctive diesel designs, this is a story you won’t want to miss.

👉 Watch now, and don’t forget to like, comment, share, and subscribe for more deep dives into the unsung heroes of railway history. Let us know your favourite Warship loco in the comments below!

Video Credits
Class 42 Diesel Hydraulic "Warship" Diesel Loco No. D821 "Greyhound" in Essex
   • Class 42 Diesel Hydraulic "Warship" Diesel...  

Warships in Action
   • Warships in Action  

Class 42 Warship Diesel at Full Power! | Express Run at Watercress Line Diesel Gala 2025
   • Class 42 Warship Diesel at Full Power! | E...  

Class 42 Warship 'Glory' arriving and departing Burrs Country Park
   • Class 42 Warship 'Glory' arriving and depa...  

Class 42 "Warship" diesel-hydraulics D832 "Onslaught Departs From Bishops Lydeard With A 2 Tone
   • Class 42 "Warship" diesel-hydraulics D832 ...  

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