18-in Mark VII Torpedo (UK)
The 18-in R.G.F. Mark VII Torpedo was a British torpedo developed at the Royal Gun Factory and first ordered for service in 1908 in its VII* variant.[Fact Check]
Unlike the Mark VI torpedoes, there were heater torpedoes by nature, and so are never qualified by a "H.".
Development and History
Particulars
It was hoped that these might deliver more than 41 knots, but depth-keeping issues observed above 43 knots caused them to be rated at lower speed.[3] Its overall length including 4.5-in long pistol was 17 feet, 7.4 inches (see Plate).[4]
In its Mark VIII S.L. version, it achieved 29-31 knots to 5,500 yards and 40.5-41.5 to 3,00 yards.
Manufacture and Use
The raw Mark VII torpedo was first ordered in 1910-1911; oddly, this is after the Mark VII* and Mark VII** variants in 1908-1909. More careful reading is required.
Mark VII*
Forty S.L. torpedoes were ordered in 1908-1909, but were somehow only reported the following year.[5]
These contained more fuel and water but less air than the raw Mark VII, yielding an increase in range, at least under the low speed setting: 29-31 knots to 6,500 yards and 40.5-41.5 over 3,000 yards.[6]
Mark VII**
Some 53 Hook Bracket and 143 Side Lug specimens were ordered or given heaters in 1908-1909 – the source needs to be read more carefully.[Citation needed]
Footnotes
- ↑ Annual Report of the Torpedo School, 1908. Plate 12.
- ↑ Annual Report of the Torpedo School, 1909. Plate 2.
- ↑ Annual Report of the Torpedo School, 1909. p. 12.
- ↑ Annual Report of the Torpedo School, 1908. p. 18.
- ↑ Annual Report of the Torpedo School, 1909. p. 7.
- ↑ Annual Report of the Torpedo School, 1909. pp. 11-2.
Bibliography
