Q&A · 2:26:04-2:31:26

Could American submarines use British torpedo technology?

Singapore's workshops might adapt limited British torpedo components for American boats, though it would not be plug-and-play.

Question

Could US submarines use Royal Navy torpedoes if the two navies worked closely at Singapore?

Short answer

Possibly in limited adapted form, but compatibility work would be difficult and would depend on Singapore's workshops and experienced personnel.

Notes

The idea depends on an improvised engineering project rather than a simple ammunition swap. A US submarine might carry a few adapted British weapons or components as insurance against unreliable Mark 14 torpedoes, but dimensions, detonators, fire-control settings, and tube compatibility all require work. A limited mixed load is more plausible than replacing the boat's entire torpedo outfit. Singapore's machinery and experienced chief petty officers make experimentation plausible, while Phillips' authority could also accelerate formal complaints about American ordnance failures.