Now, technically, what I wrote about above is approach tactics, meaning that you have sensor contact with the target, and Frederf has written about intercept tactics, meaning you have no sensor contact with the target. My piece was based on the
Submarine Torpedo Fire Control Manual, Chapter 9,
Submerged Approach and Attack Practices. This is applicable also to surfaced approaches, but since it was written for the much more restricted battery powered submerged submarine, incorporates the most efficient methods for obtaining proper firing position and transitioning from the approach phase to the attack phase.
Always begin the approach by heading directly at the target. Then observe whether the bearing opens up to the left or right. That will determine whether to put the target on your starboard or port beam.
The normal approach course (NAC) of your submarine should be keeping the target on your beam and moving in the same direction as the target. If you determine the AoB is large you can open that up to a 100 or 110º angle to allow for possible high speed of the target. If the AoB is below 45º you'll want to reduce that approach angle to compensate for the fact that the target is headed more directly toward you. Remember that if the target is moving from right to left, you'll have to subtract that desired angle of approach from 360º to yield the course to steer. Let's say your target bears 0º, your NAC will be 360-90=270º. Then you find the AoB is close to 90º or even larger, so you open that up by 10º to course 260º or even 250º. Clear as mud?
There is much more detailed information in the manual itself, linked above.
OK, Fred, am I blind? Where's that wiki link?
