RUR-4 Weapon Alpha
The RUR-4 "Weapon Alpha" (originally Weapon Able) was an American naval ahead-throwing anti-submarine warfare (ASW) rocket launcher. It was designed between 1946 and 1949, and was installed on warships from 1951 to 1969. Unlike depth charges, it was designed to attack enemy submarines without requiring the attacking ship to be located directly above the submarine being attacked.
| Weapon Alpha | |
|---|---|
USS Norfolk (DL-1) was one of the few ships outfitted with Weapon Alpha. Two of the four mounts can be seen side-by-side forward of the bridge. | |
| Type | Standoff anti-submarine rocket |
| Place of origin | United States |
| Service history | |
| In service | 1951–1969 |
| Used by | United States Navy Japan |
| Production history | |
| Designer | Naval Ordnance Test Station |
| Designed | 1946–1949 |
| Specifications (Mark 1) | |
| Mass | 525 pounds (238 kg) |
| Length | 8 feet 6 inches (2.6 m) |
| Diameter | 12.75 inches (324 mm) |
| Warhead | High explosive |
| Warhead weight | 250 pounds (110 kg) |
Detonation mechanism | Depth charge |
| Engine | 5.25 in (133 mm) rocket |
| Propellant | Solid fuel |
Operational range | 800 yards (730 m) |
| Maximum speed | 190 miles per hour (310 km/h) |
Launch platform | Ships |
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