3 Review(s)

This book is about modern torpedo technology and naval mine design. It is written by an expert in underwater weapon systems. The author has spent many years designing torpedoes in all their aspects from homing to dynamics and control engineering, as well as torpedo proximity fuzes. He has also designed all types of naval mines. The author initially discusses the nature of underwater explosions and the detailed designing of torpedo electromagnetic (EM) proximity fuzes based on it. The topic of EM proximity fuzes, considered a complex subject, is treated in an easy-to-understand manner. The topic is well explained with examples. Torpedo homing is then discussed in substantial detail as well as wake homing. The author discusses basic sonar theory for the uninitiated. He then discusses the evolution of torpedo homing and concludes with a cursory examination of the homing head of a contemporary torpedo. The author then discusses the origin of naval mines and the various types of mines in existence. This topic is well explained with mathematical examples from the basic shell design to more complex naval mines. Special emphasis is given to ground mines and anchor mines. The limitations and advantages of each are discussed as well as problems encountered in minelaying. Specialized naval mines like the submarine-launched mobile mines (SLMM) are also examined as well as gliding mines. The complex issues behind the design of elaborate naval mines are discussed, again with minimum mathematics. This book is designed to serve as a basic primer in such topics and it is hoped, will be appreciated by all involved in this field.