(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
