14-in Mark VII Torpedo (UK)
The 14-in R.L. Mark VII Torpedo was an early British torpedo. Some of these were referred to as "Leeds torpedoes", which likely means they were manufactured by Greenwood and Batley.[Inference]
Mark VII*
Australia and Undaunted complained in 1890 that some Mark VII* Leeds torpedoes were defective due to bolts being sheared, causing bottoming and other malarkey. These parts were noted as being stronger in the newer 14-in Mark VIII torpedoes.[1]
1896
An extensive report on torpedoes being adjusted at the test ranges shows the Mark VIII and VII* are still in use in 1896.[2]
At Horsea, average speeds to 600 yards:
- nine R.L. Mark VII torpedoes averaged 26.16 knots in 53.6 degree water.
- seventeen R.L. Mark VII* torpedoes averaged 25.45 knots in 44.3 degree water.
- four G&B Mark VII* torpedoes averaged 26.43 knots in 55.25 degree water.
Repaired torpedoes at Horsea, average speeds to 600 yards:
- two R.L. Mark VII torpedoes averaged 26.6 knots in 53 degree water.
- ten R.L. Mark VII* torpedoes averaged 26.43 knots in 63.5 degree water.
- one G. & B. Mark VII* torpedo averaged 25.92 knots in 49 degree water.
1919
In 1919, it was approved to break up all 14-in torpedoes except for a reserve of fifty each of 14-in Mark X* torpedo and 14-in Mark XI torpedo.[3]
Footnotes
Bibliography
