An anti-submarine weapon launched from surface craft. Three types of this depth charge have been recovered to date and are designated by the Japanese as "Type 95"; Type 95, Modification 1"; and "Type 95, Modification 2". The only pistol recovered has been with the Type 95 charge. Data on the operation and characteristics of pistols for Modifications 1 and 2 have come from intelligence sources.

The physical characteristics of these charges are as follwos:

Case

Shape – Cylindrical, 17".75 in diameter and 30".5 long.

Color – Grey.

Material – Steel.

Charge – Type 95 - 220 lbs. Type 88 explosvie with Shimose booster.

Type 95, Modification 1 - 325 lbs. Tpe 98 explosive.

Type 95, Modification 2 - 242 lbs. Type 1, Temporary explosive.

Total Weight – Type 95 - 352 lbs.

Type 95, Modification 1 - 475 lbs.

Type 95, Modification 2 - 374 lbs.

External Fittings

End Plate – 16".25 in diameter, forming one end of the case.

Pistol Cover – 2".9 in diameter, screwed into central tube in the center of the end plate. This contains two holes for a psitol safety fork.

Depth Control Valve – Screwed into the opposite end of the central tube from pistol cover. Type 95 has depth settings of 30 and 60 meters (100' and 200') and 30 meters with parachute. Type Modification 1, has been reported with settings of 30, 60, 90, 120 and 150 meters (100', 200', 300', 390', 490').

Pad Eyes – Two on each end of the case.

Operation

Prior to launching the charge, the depth-setting dial on the depth control valve is tur-ned from "Safe" to the desired setting, unlocking the booster can and aligning one of three seepage holes under the depth control valve with the water inlet hole. The safety fork is also removed from the pistol at this time. The charge is then launched, and, as it sinks, increasing hydrostatic pressure forces the pistol and booster toward one another. The size of the seepage hole determines the flow water into the space behind the pistol and booster, and the speed with which these two parts come together. When the two meet, the detonator houses in the booster and the spring-loaded firing pin sleeve is un-locked. Further pressure releases the firing pin which then strikes the detonator and ex-plodes the charge.

When the charge is set on "Safe" the booster is locked to the depth-control valve, the pistol is secured to the pistol cover, and none of the water-entry holes in uncove-red.

Figure 28 – Two views of the Type 95 depth charge. Note the bolted end plate.