Quote:
Originally Posted by sublynx
2. How the torpedo loadout was decided 1939 - 1942? Captain's choice, or was it an order coming from higher up?
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I would very much doubt that a loadout would be at the discretion of the Captain.
Donitz I would think would be the one determining the type of torp loaded at any given time taking into account what his objectives were, torp developments, proven testing, reliabilty, availability etc, etc
Why I believe this to be the case is in "War Beneath the Sea" a number of references are made which give some insight as to who was calling the shots. Such as the following:
"Donitz had also reminded COs of their new weapons (T5 and T4) ... (these) new weapons in which Donitz placed his faith were both offensive and defensive" (pg 365)