Originally the word torpedo referred to any explosive charge, including the type of weapon no.... torpedo type

Originally the word torpedo referred to any explosive charge, including the type of weapon now known as a ( q.v. During the Napoleonic Wars the American inventor experimented with a naval mine and called it a torpedo, apparently deriving its name from a fish that emits an electric discharge that incapacitates its enemies. During the 19th century some naval vessels used the spar torpedo, which was simply an explosive charge attached to the end of a long pole or spar; it exploded when it touched the hull of an enemy vessel. Further modifications permitted the introduction of a set angle (up to 90) into the torpedo's course before the steering rudders took full control. This feature allowed a ship to launch torpedoes without having to face broadside to the target, greatly opening up the field of torpedo tactics. Modern torpedoes are grouped according to source of propulsive power, method of control during water travel, type of target, and type of launching craft. Torpedoes are ! an important element in antisubmarine warfare; attack submarines, designed to hunt missile submarines, are armed with torpedoes, including combination missile-torpedo weapons. torpedo type