The Mahan class carried three quadruple torpedo launchers, one on the centerline and one on each side. It could fire eight torpedoes in an initial attack, then bring the opposite side's four tubes to bear while turning away. A target concentrating on combing the first salvo could overlook the four torpedoes following it. A ship slowed or stopped by an initial hit would also be vulnerable to the second attack. One hit could strike the bow or stern, or meet torpedo protection, without sinking the target. The twelve-weapon battery was intended to improve the chance of scoring two hits. A rough 20 percent hit estimate is mentioned, but the numerical examples do not establish a consistent probability calculation.
Notable Point · 44:55-46:58
Mahan's launcher layout allowed an eight-plus-four torpedo attack
One centerline launcher and two wing launchers let a Mahan fire eight torpedoes, then four more while turning away to catch an evading or damaged target.