[UKönig]

I think that a historically accurate response would depend on how far along in the extraction and loading process you were. Extraction of the external spares was a tedious and time consuming activity, which includes removal of the deck grating, setting up the block and tackle, opening the pressure tube, attaching the winch mechanism, opening the torpedo loading hatch, pulling it all the way out, and then (gently, because those things are heavy) lowering the eel into the boat. Then you have to seal up the hatches, stow the harness and tackle away, then put the grates back down. I suppose if you just started the process, it would be easy enough to abort and crash dive to safety, but if not, then yes, historically you may have to kick the spare over the side, seal the loading hatch as fast as possible, and *then* crash dive. I used to load my external spares in all weather and sea states, but now I limit myself to only when seas are 10m/s or less. If aircraft catch me on the surface, and I am able, then I will attempt to hold the planes at bay with my AA guns, until the loading process is finished. it can be a nail biting, edge of the seat experience...