Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 1:08:20-1:11:24

A close-range Whitehead still gave time to turn

At roughly 1,100 yards, a 35-knot Whitehead needed about 55 seconds to arrive, while the target could begin maneuvering as soon as the torpedo boat's attack became apparent.

Naval ManoeuvreTorpedo AccuracyTorpedo BoatsWhitehead Torpedo
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Question

How long did a 35-knot Whitehead torpedo take to cover about 1,100 yards?

Short answer

About 55 to 56 seconds, with the target able to start maneuvering before the torpedo was fired.

Notes

A viewer asks how long a period Whitehead torpedo would take to cover about 1,100 yards. The calculation gives roughly 55 to 56 seconds at 35 knots. That is less than a minute, but the target need not wait for the weapon to enter the water before reacting. A battleship that sees the torpedo boat approaching can begin its turn early and upset the attacker's predicted firing solution.