ET-52
Overview
ET-52
An ET-52 torpedo fitted on a Z-9C naval helicopter.
Source: www.naval.com.br -
© copyright lies with original owner
Pakistan
Description
Introduction
The ET-52 is a modern lightweight torpedo of Chinese origin. Since 1984 China tried to copy and later produce under license the US Mk 46 torpedo as the Yu-7. In 1987 a batch of less complex Italian A.224S torpedoes was ordered in order to copy key components for local lightweight torpedo production.
Layout
The design of the ET-52 is generally similar to the A.224S, but features various components from the Mk 46 torpedo. The main difference between the ET-52 and the Mk 46 and Yu-7 is the use of an electric motor, which is cheaper and less complex but results in reduced performance. The layout is conventional with the seeker in the nose, the warhead in the middle and the batteries and engine at the rear.
Guidance
The ET-52 uses a combination of passive and active acoustic guidance. At first it was believed that the seeker of the Mk 46 torpedo was used, but apparently the original CIACIO-S seeker from the A.224S design is used. It is possible that seeker type and capabilities may differ among the variants of the ET-52.
Firepower
Due to its electric propulsion the ET-52 has a range of only 6 km and a speed of 30 kt. Target submarines can be engaged out to a depth of 400 meters. The 34 kg warhead is not as powerful as the 45 kg one used on the Yu-7 but will sink most targets.
Launch platform
The ET-52 can be launched by both aircraft and surface vessels. The Z-9 helicopter may carry a single torpedo on each side of the fuselage. When dropped from a helicopter a small parachute ensures the nose enters the water first. On surface vessels the ET-52 are launched from trainable three round launchers on the deck. The design of the launchers is based on the Italian B.515S.
Users
The ET-52 is in service with the Chinese navy on both frigates and the naval version of the Z-9 helicopter. Unlike the more expensive Yu-7 the ET-52 has been exported to several Asian navies, including Bangladesh and Pakistan.
Variants
ET-52
Two ET-52 torpedoes on ammunition handling carts at a Chinese naval aviation airbase.
Source: Chinese internet -
© copyright lies with original owner
ET-52 lightweight torpedo variants
The ET-52 is a lightweight torpedo of Chinese origin. Externally it is very similar to the Italian A.224S torpedo and it can only be distinct by markings. Various versions are known to exists, including the ET-52C and ET-52E. The ET-52 can be easily distinguished from the similar sized Chinese Yu-7. The Yu-7 has a twin propeller while the ET-52 has single propeller and a ring around the control fins.
Details
Media
ET-52
A three round launcher for the ET-52 torpedo as fitted to the Pakistani Zulfiqar class.
Source: Mak Hon Keong
Copyright: GNU Attribution - Share Alike license
ET-52
An ET-52 torpedo on an ammunition handling cart.
Source: www.china-defense-mashup.com
Copyright: copyright lies with original owner
Related articles
Yu-7
The ET-52 was developed alongside the Yu-7, which is more widely used in Chinese service.
