Type 97 light weight torpedo (G-RX4)
The Type 97 Torpedo (97式短魚雷, 97 Shiki Tan Gyorai) is a short-range torpedo developed and built by the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries for the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force. This type of torpedo, like many other modern Japanese weapons systems, is not exported.
| Type 97 | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Type | Torpedo |
| Place of origin |  |
| Service history | |
| In service | 1997 - Now |
| Used by |  |
| Production history | |
| Manufacturer | Mitsubishi Heavy Industries |
| Specifications | |
| Mass | 320 kg |
| Length | 2.832 mm |
| Diameter | 324 mm |
| Engine | Closed-cycle turbine |
| Propellant | Otto fuel II |
Guidance system | Acoustic |
Launch platform | Aircraft, ships |
Development
At the end of the Cold War, Soviet attack submarines are capable of moving higher speed and diving at lower depth, rendering the torpedoes used by US navy and the JMSDF like the Mk-46 torpedo less able to deal with them. So a new type of torpedo needs to be developed to catch up with this development.
The US launched a new type of torpedo, the Mk-50 using an infrared detector and a closed-loop pump with an integrated processing unit for analyzing underwater sound waves for target acquisition. This type of torpedo can also be used to intercept other torpedoes. Soviet submarines, however, have developed adaptive capabilities, such as the use of trap baits and interference of the detection system, making it harder for the torpedo to find its target.
In 1989 a new torpedo project by Japan, G-RX4, was launched to develop the necessary upgrades and start making prototypes. By 1997 the new torpedo was approved and put into service and is called the Type 97. The torpedo is now equipped for P-3 ASW aircraft and Mark 32 torpedo tubes on surface ships.