Q&A · 2:49:23-2:49:46

The challenge of missile-delivered heavy torpedoes

A proposed missile-and-torpedo combination runs into the practical problem of slowing a heavy torpedo enough for safe water entry.

Question

Why have navies not widely adopted missile-delivered heavy torpedoes for long-range anti-ship attack?

Short answer

The concept has been explored, but safely slowing and placing a heavy torpedo into the water is a difficult part of the weapon system.

Notes

Russian, Indian, and other programmes had explored missile delivery of heavy torpedoes, although wide adoption remained uncertain. The missile can provide range, yet the torpedo must enter the sea at a survivable speed and attitude before beginning its underwater attack. The air-to-water transition is the immediate engineering obstacle in this account.