A 24" torpedo powered by a two-cylinder double-acting reciprocating steam engine and launched from destroyers and cruisers. The use of oxigen in place of compressed air eliminates practically all gas bubbles, leaving only a slightly visible wake. Its use also giv-es this torpedo a high speed and long range. Only one type of this torpedo, designated by the Japanese as Type 93, Model 1, Modification 2, has been recovered to date.

The physical characteristics of the torpedo are as follows:

Length Overall – 29'6".

Length of Warhead – 4'7".

Length of Airflask – 18'1".

Length of Afterbody – 6'10" (Including Tail).

Diameter – 24".

Total Weight – 6000 - 6500 lbs.

Charge – 1080 lbs. Type 97 explosive.

Tail Fins – 4.

Operation

As the torpedo travels through the water, pressure depresses the bail on the explo-der, unlocking an inertia trigger, and rotates the impeller. This arms the exploder. Impact with the target displaces the inertia trigger and frees the firing pin which, driven down-ward under spring pressure, strikes the detonator, firing the charge.

Safety Precautions

Should this torpedo be found in shallow water or on the beach, it must be considered dangerous. Movement of the torpedo might actuate the exploder, firing the charge.

Figure 36 – This 24-inch destroyer or cruiser launched torpedo is one of the largest underwater ordnance item used by the Japanese. Its use of oxygen instead of com-pressed air allows it to travel with practically no visible wake.