Beaufort C of Torpedo Development Unit at Calshot
Torpedo Armament and Use of the Beaufort
The Bristol Beaufort, a British twin-engine torpedo bomber, was designed to carry an 18-inch torpedo internally in a 19-foot torpedo cell located within the bomb bay. This torpedo, the Mk XII, was actually 17.7 inches in diameter and could not withstand hitting the water at speeds exceeding 180 mph. This limitation meant that Beaufort pilots had to reduce their speed to drop the torpedo safely, making them vulnerable to enemy fire. The recommended dropping height was 70 feet from a distance of 1,000-2,000 yards, but operational experience showed that 700-800 yards was a more realistic range.
The Beaufort’s use as a torpedo bomber evolved over time, with training procedures and operational tactics adapting to address the limitations of the aircraft and its weaponry.
Early Challenges: Initially, British aircraft torpedo design lagged behind aircraft performance, making it difficult to utilize the Beaufort’s speed during torpedo attacks. Trials revealed that pilots had to slow down considerably, limiting their ability to evade enemy defenses. The torpedo itself also presented challenges, with its limited speed and range impacting the effectiveness of attacks.
Training and Tactics: To prepare for torpedo operations, Beaufort crews underwent specialized training at locations like Abbotsinch. During these exercises, they practiced dummy torpedo attacks, learning to drop the weapon while flying straight and level at a speed of 140 knots and a height of 60-80 feet. The ideal dropping distance was less than 1,000 yards, preferably 800 yards, to allow the torpedo sufficient time to arm after entering the water.
Operational Experience: Actual combat experience highlighted the challenges of torpedo attacks, particularly in heavily defended areas. The need to slow down and fly at low altitudes made the Beaufort vulnerable to flak and enemy fighters. Estimating the distance from the target also proved difficult, especially when attacking large warships, leading to inaccurate drops. The size of these ships often deceived pilots, making them believe they were closer to the target than they actually were, resulting in missed attacks. Additionally, the speed of the target ship had to be taken into account to calculate the lead required for a successful hit. If the torpedo was dropped at too great a distance, the target ship had more time to take evasive action, further reducing the chances of a hit.
Tactical Adaptations: Operational experience led to the development of new tactics to improve the effectiveness of torpedo attacks. One successful tactic involved approaching the target ship from a 45-degree angle, rather than on the beam, to achieve converging speeds and improve accuracy. This technique was particularly effective in the Mediterranean, where Beauforts played a significant role in attacking Axis supply convoys.
Limitations and Transition: Despite the development of improved tactics, the Beaufort faced inherent limitations as a torpedo bomber, particularly as enemy defenses strengthened. Its lack of speed and maneuverability made it increasingly difficult to penetrate heavily defended areas, leading to significant losses. The introduction of the faster and more heavily armed Bristol Beaufighter eventually led to the phasing out of the Beaufort from torpedo bomber squadrons.