Type 97
97式短魚雷
Overview
Type 97 lightweight torpedo
Training model of a Type 97 lightweight torpedo displayed on an ammunition handling trolley.
Source: Unknown author -
© CC BY 3.0
Japan - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
G-RX4 (development project)
Description
Introduction
The Type 97 is a modern era lightweight torpedo of Japanese origin. It was developed as successor the American Mk 46 torpedo in Japanese service. The Type 97 is optimized to engage deep diving submarines in open water.
Design
The Type 97 is a lightweight torpedo that is optimized for use in deep oceans. This requires speed and depth, which are provided by a wet heater engine using Otto fuel II. This powers a pump jet propulsor.
Guidance
The Type 97 uses passive and active acoustic homing. It uses a wide frequency sensor and digital processing. Reportedly ECCM capabilities are much improved over older models.
Firepower
The Type 97 uses a shaped charge warhead for increased performance against double hull submarines. Range, speed and depth have not been officially published. Estimates are a range of 15 km and operational depth up to 600 m.
Users
The Type 97 has been acquired in quantity by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force for use on surface vessels, helicopters, aircraft and anti-submarine rocket. It is supplemented by the Type 12, a newer lightweight torpedo that is optimized for use in shallow waters.
Details
Platforms
Type 07
The Type 97 can be used as the lethal payload carried by the Type 07 vertically launched anti-submarine rocket.
Hyuga class
Japanese class of helicopter carrier, 2 ships in class. Launched from 2x3 torpedo tubes.
Related articles
Type 12
The Type 12 lightweight torpedo supplements the Type 97. Unlike the Type 97 the Type 12 is optimized for use in shallow water.
Mk 46
The Type 97 was developed as successor to the American Mk 46 torpedo in Japanese service.
Mk 50
The Type 97 can be seen as the counterpart to the American Mk 50 high performance lightweight torpedo.