Type 53 torpedo

With the exception of the UGST which uses Mark 48 style monopropellants, Soviet 53 cm torpedoes generally use electric power (since middle of World War II), or kerosene mixed with various oxidizers for propulsion.

Model 53-27 (1927) with 265 kg (584 lb) of TNT was developed domestically in the so-called Ostekhbureau [Wikidata], and it had a poor 3.7 km (2.0 nmi) range at 45 knots (83 km/h).

Notably, all three torpedoes launched against Wilhelm Gustloff hit and exploded with catastrophic results, not a common feat in those times and conditions.

During the Black Sea campaigns (1941–44), Soviet submarines sank at least 29,000 tons of enemy shipping, mostly using mines, shellfire and 53-38 torpedoes.

The new 53-39 (entering service in 1941) was very fast and effective but only available in limited numbers, while the ET-80 (1942–1943) was the first Soviet electric torpedo and crews did not trust it because of its teething and rushed induction problems.

A 53-65K torpedo on display in the torpedo storage areas of the former Soviet aircraft carrier Minsk
Soviet torpedoes of the types SET-40 (front) and SET-65, as manufactured 1965. The SET-40 carries 80 kg of explosives and has a length of 4,50 metres with a diameter of 400 mm. It travels up to 7,5 km at a speed of 29 knots. Type SET-65 contains 205 kg of explosives, has a length of 7,90 metres and a diameter of 533 mm. It travels up to 15 km at a speed of 40 knots.