Research on Charge in Torpedo Warhead

Warhead charge is an important tactical and technical specification for a torpedo. The selection of explosive type affect the damage power and charge security of the torpedo. In this paper, the energy release characteristics of torpedo warhead are analyzed. According to the characteristics of target and encounter condition, it is educed that the charge in torpedo warhead can release higher damage power if the anti-warship torpedo select high bubble-energy explosive, the anti-submarine torpedo select high detonation-velocity high detonation-pressure explosive, and the anti-torpedo torpedo select high shock-wave energy explosive. And the worldwide development and applications of explosive used in underwater weapons are introduced, the basic need of torpedo charge is determined considering damage power, security and charging technology. Further, in consideration of the degrees of risk of warhead power, the using occasion of different equipments, and the properties of explosive for different underwater weapons, some suggestions about explosive selection and application for different type of a torpedo are offered. This study may provide a reference for the research and development of torpedo warhead and underwater explosive.