AIRCRAFT-LAUNCHED TORPEDO CONFIGURATIONS

(recoverable exercise torpedo) configurations (fig. 5-2). Mk 46 Warshot Configuration The warshot configuration of the Mk 46 and Mods torpedo consists of a nose section, warhead control group, long fuel tank, and afterbody. A tactical warhead (contains explosives) is used in the warshot configuration. Mk 46 Exercise Configuration There are three versions of exercise torpedoes available for aircraft launching: (1) a torpedo with a short exercise head, extender section, and a short fuel tank; (2) a torpedo with a long exercise head and a short fuel tank; or (3) a torpedo with a long exercise head, instrumentation for tracking on 3D ranges, and a short fuel tank. All three configurations use Mk 85 and Mods exercise heads. For detailed information concerning the component configuration of the Mk 46 and Mods torpedo, you should refer to Mk 46 Torpedo/Mk 46 REXTORP Flight Accessories (Description, Operation, Installation, Removal, and Trajectory Data), NAVSEA SW512- AO-ASY-010. Mk 50 Torpedo The Mk 50 (fig. 5-3) is a lightweight, high-speed, antisubmarine torpedo that is compatible with all airborne ASW platforms. It has improved design features to ensure greater reliability and increased capabilities over previous torpedoes. The three major sections of the torpedo are nose, head, and afterbody. The nose contains the transmitter and receiver. The afterbody provides propulsion and control. The exercise head provides buoyancy for the torpedo. The warshot head contains an explosive charge. The exercise torpedo is identified by an orange nose and afterbody with a 6-inch blue strip around the circumference of the ballast assembly. For further information on the torpedoes, you should refer to United States Ammunition Historical and Functional Data, NAVSEA SW010-AB-GTP-010. AIRCRAFT-LAUNCHED TORPEDO CONFIGURATIONS To air-launch torpedoes, you will use launch accessory equipment. This equipment includes suspension bands to attach the torpedo to the aircraft and torpedo air stabilizers to ensure a predictable air trajectory and water entry. Torpedoes are configured and issued to the fleet depending on tactical or training requirements. As an Aviation Ordnanceman (AO), you are not responsible for the assembly of the torpedo at the organizational level. However, you are responsible for the installation of launch accessory equipment. Figure 5-2.—Mk 46 recoverable exercise torpedo (REXTORP). 5-2