This is a Torpedo, Type 21, Mod 2, for the Petrel anti-ship missile. The Petrel could be fitted with either this torpedo or the Navy Mk 13 type. When fully loaded, the Type 21(or Mr. 13) was a 2,000 pound airborne torpedo (i.e. carried and deployed by aircraft).
The Petrel missile was designed by the National Bureau of Standards during 1952-1954, then transferred to the Fairchild Company. The Petrel had a brief operational life, becoming operational in 1958 but was cancelled in the same year. The Type 21 torpedo was transferred to the NASM from the now defunct National Armed Forces Advisory Board in 1984.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Date
ca. 1958
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
ARMAMENT-Missiles
Manufacturer
Boiler & Tank Co.
Physical Description
Torpedo-shaped, round head in front, slight tapering in rear, with twin propellers at end, weldeded together, and covered with a circular fairing and ring.
Dimensions
Overall: 13 ft. 5 in. long x 1 ft. 10 in. diameter (408.94 x 55.88cm)
Materials
Overall, steel
Inventory Number
A19680033001
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Armed Forces Museum
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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