Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:12:16-2:12:30

Surface- and submarine-launched torpedo variants

Surface and submarine variants chiefly differ in external form and the systems used to start and handle them.

SubmarinesSurface WarfareTorpedoesWeapons Integration
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Question

What differs between ship-launched and submarine-launched versions of the same torpedo?

Short answer

Mostly their shape, launch interfaces, starting systems, and placement of platform-specific fittings.

Notes

A submarine tube imposes different shape, interface, and launch requirements from a deck-mounted launcher. Starting mechanisms and the placement of external fittings must match the platform. The underlying warhead or propulsion family may still be related. Weapons sharing a name can need distinct surface- and submarine-launched variants.