The rocket proved an operational success, and spawned several improved versions for use against surface and land targets.

Following trials by the Royal Air Force of rocket-propelled, air-launched weapons for anti-submarine warfare during 1942 (which resulted in the adoption of the RP-3 by RAF Coastal Command), the United States Navy launched a high-priority project during the summer of 1943 for the development of an anti-submarine rocket of its own.

[3] The nose of the 3.5" FFAR was given a relatively blunt conical shape that had been shown experimentally to give a maximum pitch-up as the rocket entered the water.

The rocket remained lethal even after passing through up to 130 feet (40 m) of water, giving the pilot a target several times the actual size of the submarine.

Although the rocket's accuracy was more than sufficient to allow usage against surface targets, the narrow body diameter restricted the size of any explosive warhead that could be fitted.