WWII US Landing Mat
Marston Mat refers to special metal planks used during World War II for the rapid construction of temporary airfields. They were also known as PSP (Pierced Steel Planking). These planks were made of steel, could withstand heavy loads, and allowed for the installation of a stable and durable airfield surface for various types of aircraft on soft or unstable ground. The planks had a perforated design, which allowed water to drain easily without compromising the quality of the surface.
The Marston Mat was first used during maneuvers in North Carolina in November 1941, near Marston, which is where the name originated. Marston Mat was widely used in operations across the Pacific, North Africa, and Europe. With their help, engineering units of the U.S. Army and Navy were able to quickly construct airfields, for example, measuring 1500 by 45 meters, in just a few days. After the war, these planks were widely used for civilian purposes, including the construction of temporary roads and platforms.