Q&A · 4:09:37-4:10:14

Why submarines keep weapons inside the pressure hull

A submarine-design answer connects reloadability and magazine depth with hydrodynamic cleanliness and acoustic discretion.

Question

Why not replace torpedo tubes with external weapon capsules?

Short answer

Internal tubes support reloads and larger magazines, while external capsules add drag, noise, and additional structural penetrations or weak points.

Notes

An external capsule can simplify one launch but makes repeated engagements and weapon handling harder. It also disrupts the smooth hull form a submarine relies on for low noise and introduces more fittings whose structure must survive pressure and flow.