USE

The depth charges included in this section are three dropped from air-craft in anit-submarine warfare. Only one size is currently in use, the 250 pound. Normally they are carried on a bomb car-rier.

FUZING

These bombs consists of a cylindrical metal case, with an explosive charge, and have a central tube in which is housed a primer, a detonator, and a tail pistol when the depth charge is fully armed. The depth at which the depth charge will detonates is determind by the pistol, which operates by hydro-static pressure.

A safety device is incorporated to render the depth charge safe in the event of the carrying aircraft's sinking after a forced landing. This safety device, however, does not always prevent deto-nation if the depth charge is dropped safe, as it may be affected by impact with the water.

CHARACTERISTICS

Aircraft depth charges are thinwalled, with a load-ing factor of about 65 per cent. They are painted dark green overall, with a red band and a colored band to indicate the nature of the explosive filling. Attachments, comprised of a nose fairing and/or a tail, are usually fitted to a depth charge to reduce the air resistance when carried externally on an aircraft and to incresses the stability of the air trajectory. Unless fitted with a parachute, failure to detonate may result if the depth charge is dropped from too great a height or at too great a speed.