Portsmouth, England, United Kingdom — Northwestern Europe (the British Isles)

Mark VIII Torpedo

Photographed By Michael Herrick, July 31, 2018

1. Mark VIII Torpedo Marker

Inscription. Mark VIII 21 Inch Torpedo This torpedo was designed for use by 'O' class submarines and motor torpedo boats. First entering service in 1927, they were extensively used during World War II, and were still in use until the mid-1980's. During the Falkland's conflict, three were used against the Argentine cruiser ARA General Belgrano.

The torpedoes weighed 1500kg, and included a high explosive warhead weighing 450kg, which would detonate on contact. It travelled towards a target at a speed of 45 knots.

This torpedo could travel up to a maximum distance of 4500m, so from Portsmouth Harbour to Cosham, or an equivalent distance to 26 times the height of the Spinnaker Tower!

Gunwharf Quays

Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Military • Waterways & Vessels.

Location. 50° 47.675′ N, 1° 6.394′ W. Marker is in Portsmouth, England. Marker can be reached from the intersection of Route B2154 and Park Road, on the left when traveling north. Located in the Gunwharf Quays mall. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Portsmouth, England PO1 3TG, United Kingdom. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. British MMK1 Mine (here, next to this marker); HMS Vernon Figurehead (within shouting distance of this marker); HMS Sirius

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(within shouting distance of this marker); GPO K6 Telephone Box (within shouting distance of this marker); The Old Customs House (within shouting distance of this marker); Noon Day Gun (within shouting distance of this marker); 12 Inch Shell (within shouting distance of this marker); HM Gunwharf, Portsmouth (about 150 meters away, measured in a direct line). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Portsmouth.

Also see . . .
1. History of Gunwharf Keys. (Submitted on September 16, 2018, by Michael Herrick of Southbury, Connecticut.)
2. Gunwharf Quays on Wikipedia. (Submitted on September 16, 2018, by Michael Herrick of Southbury, Connecticut.)

Mark VIII Torpedo image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Michael Herrick, July 31, 2018

2. Mark VIII Torpedo

Credits. This page was last revised on January 27, 2022. It was originally submitted on September 16, 2018, by Michael Herrick of Southbury, Connecticut. This page has been viewed 347 times since then and 33 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on September 16, 2018, by Michael Herrick of Southbury, Connecticut.