Q&A · 5:41:59-5:42:19

When homing torpedoes became the main anti-submarine weapon

Homing torpedoes began taking the central anti-submarine role in the 1960s and became more firmly established in that role during the 1970s.

1960s 1970s Anti-Submarine Warfare Homing Torpedoes Naval Weapons Torpedoes

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Question

When did the homing torpedo become the main anti-submarine weapon?

Short answer

The transition began in the 1960s and became more firmly established in the 1970s.

Notes

The transition occurred across a broad period rather than in one introduction year. Homing torpedoes began taking the main anti-submarine role in the 1960s, with the change more fully established in the 1970s. A weapon's initial adoption can precede the point when it dominates fleet practice by many years.