Sidon, - 4 photo's.

"Click" on Images to enlarge.

The loss of this "boat" was probably the deciding factor in stopping the use of "High Test Peroxide" as a fuel.
This very reactive substance had already caused many problems, and its use as a Torpedo and Submarine propellant was under review.
On 16th June 1955 2 in no. 21" Mk 12 "High Test Peroxide" torpedoes were being loaded, for a later trial firing, at Portland Harbour.
The engine of one of them started a "Hot Run", whilst in the torpedo tube, and the motor unit exploded bursting the tube and releasing
high pressure steam and toxic gases into the "Fore ends", killing 13 crew members, and sinking the boat.
Fortunately the warheads on this, and the other torpedoes on board, were not involved, otherwise the loss of life would have been much greater.
She was subsequently raised and was later used as a target.
Explosions of "High Test Peroxide" has also been deemed responsible for the loss of the "Kursk" and also that of the "USN Scorpion".
Refer also to the notes on the pages for "HMS Explorer and Excalibur" in this section.

"Click" on Images to enlarge.

Return to "Index 20" - Submarines.