Notable Point · 1:27:28-1:28:19

Why depth charges still matter in shallow water

A depth charge can force a quiet diesel-electric submarine to move and reveal its orientation before a torpedo is committed.

Notes

One reason for retaining depth charges is the possibility of attacking or frightening a submarine resting on the bottom. A second is to make a quiet diesel-electric submarine move in shallow water. Movement can reveal its orientation and make the geometry of a torpedo attack clearer. A blind torpedo drop risks placing the weapon where the submarine can escape its effective reach. In this proposed sequence, the depth charge helps establish the conditions for the later attack.