Henry focuses his character-driven chronicle on the inventive genius of Herbert J. Taylor and, to a lesser extent, Alban L. Gwynne. The author describes the physics, chemistry, and mechanical engineering that went into building a multitude of functional weapon systems.

As stated in the first page of the book’s introduction: “It is not meant to be an exhaustive account of every weapon, but rather an explanation of some of the weapons, linked to the stories of some of the men who invented them.” With that in mind, Depth Charge is a good literary gateway for delving deeper into this often-arcane maritime history topic.

The Northern Mariner, Winter 2021

It covers the development of all the underwater weapons listed, from the early days when the danger and needs were realised, up to the end of the Second World War. by John Lambert.

It tells how a small group of far sighted officers, engineers and scientists engaged with the problems and found solutions. Depth charges and mines form the bulk of the story, particularly the problem of creating a firing mechanism that could withstand being dropped in the sea, and then trigger at the correct time. Safety mechanisms to prevent the ship deploying the weapon became rather important!

The establishment of the specialist departments and bases dealing with these weapons is covered in detail. The expansion of them during the Second World War is detailed and shows just how important this work was.

There are copies of original line drawing s and sketches showing the various mechanisms. These are interesting.

Overall, it is a well told story covering a topic that gets little attention.

Battleship