MK 32 Surface Vessel Torpedo Tube (SVTT)

For short range attack, the Mk 44 or Mk 46 12.75 inch torpedo was placed in two trainable MK 32 Surface Vessel Torpedo Tube (SVTT) launchers with each launcher able to carry three. The launchers were placed one on each side of the ship and forward of the Bridge on the weather deck on FRAM I Gearing class destroyers. A torpedo magazine with reloads was located on the Port side of the helo hanger area. Most versions that can be rotated or trained to face a target.  The tubes were designed to be weatherproof and capable of storing torpedoes for long periods.

 

The launch is powered by compressed air in a rear flask, which also doubles as each tube's breech.  After water entry, the torpedo powered up and chased the sub using either passive or active sonar since the torpedoes are "fire-and-forget" weapons.

​

MK46 ASW Torpedo

The MK-46 torpedo is designed to attack high performance submarines.

Primary Function: Air and ship-launched lightweight torpedo
Contractor: Alliant Techsystems
Power Plant: Two-speed, reciprocating external combustion; Mono-propellant (Otto fuel II) fueled
Length: 102.36 in. tube launch configuration (from ship)
Weight: 517.65 lbs (war-shot configuration)
Diameter: 12.75 inches
Range: 8,000 yards
Depth: Greater than 1,200 ft (365.76 meters)
Speed: Greater than 28 knots (32.2 mph, 51.52 kph)
Guidance System: Homing mode: Active or passive/active acoustic homing
Launch/search mode: Snake or circle search
Warhead: 98 lbs. of PBXN-103 high explosive (bulk charge)
Date Deployed: 1966 (Mod 0); 1979 (Mod 5)