Powered by an eight-cylinder radial steam engine, this 17".7 aircraft torpedo is belie-ved to have replaced the Type 91 torpedos.

The physical characteristics of the torpedo are as follows:

Length Overall – 18'3".

Length of Warhead – 6'.

Length of Airflask – 7'0".5.

Length of Afterbody – 5'2".5 (Including Tail).

Diameter – 17".7.

Total Weight – 1800 lbs.

Charge – 650 lbs. Type 97 explosive.

Tail Fins – 4.

Range/Speed – 3000 yards at 42 knots.

Depth Setting – 8'.3 to 59'.4.

Exploder – Type 2, or Type 90, bail impact-inertia, in pocket on top centerline of warhead.

Operation

When the torpedo is launched, a safety pin is withdrawn from the Type 2 exploder, releasing the bail. It is immediately depressed under spring pressure, and when the tor-pedo enters the water, pressure rotates the impeller, arming the exploder. Impact of the torpedo with the target displaces the inertia trigger and releases the firing pin, which, driven downward under spring pressure, strikes the detonator, firing the charge.

If the Type 90 exploder is used, the bail is not depressed until the torpedo enters the water. The depression of the bail unlocks the inertia trigger. The exploder fires in the same manner as the Type 2.

Safety Precautions

This torpedo must be considered dangerous if it is found in shallow water or on the beach. The exploder must not be touched, as movement of its parts may fire the charge. Likewise, movement of the torpedo itself may cause the propellers to turn over a few re-volutions, driving the torpedo upon the beach. Impact with the beach may actuate the exploder, firing the charge.

Figure 38 – Torpedo Type 2 (special) with warhead removed. It is powered by an 8-cylinder steam engine.