Mark 31 torpedo

Summary

The Mark 31 torpedo was a destroyer-launched acoustic torpedo developed by the Harvard and Pennsylvania State universities during World War II. A modification of the Mark 18 electric torpedo, it was conceived as an interim weapon to be used in the Pacific War until a new high-speed acoustic torpedo could be developed for the United States Navy.[1]

Mark 31 torpedo
TypeAcoustic torpedo[1]
Place of originUnited States
Service history
In servicenever in service
Production history
DesignerUnderwater Sound Laboratory, Harvard University[1]
Ordnance Research Laboratory, Pennsylvania State University
Designed1944[1]
ManufacturerNaval Torpedo Station Newport
Specifications
Mass2800 pounds[1]
Length246 inches[1]
Diameter21 inches[1]

Effective firing range4000 yards[1]
WarheadMk 31, HBX[1]
Warhead weight500 pounds[1]

EngineElectric[1]
Maximum speed 29 knots[1]
Guidance
system
Gyroscope[1]
Launch
platform
Destroyers[1]

Further development of the torpedo was terminated due to the status of other more promising programs, notably the Mark 16 torpedo and the Mark 35 torpedo.

See also edit

References edit

  1. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n Jolie, E.W. (15 September 1978). "A Brief History of US Navy Torpedo Development: Torpedo Mine Mk31". Retrieved 21 June 2013.