Torpedo launcher

Torpedo launcher, a common name for systems used to launch different types of projectiles.

First torpedo launchers shown are those found on the NX class Enterprise (NX-01) around 2150. They are used to launch spatial torpedoes and later photonic torpedoes. These launchers were partially manual.

Photon torpedoes were common from the mid 23rd century, which used a new type of launcher. Probes (modified torpedo casings with sensory equipment and no warhead) could be also launched with the same machinery.

Quantum torpedo launchers were introduced around 2370.

Launcher Hardware
By the mid to late twenty-fourth century Starfleet deploys two main types of launchers aboard its full sized deep space vessels. Both versions are capable of firing type six through nine photon torpedoes as well as the newer quantum torpedoes.

The first model is a light torpedo system, equipped with a single loader and small launch assembly. This system can launch only a single torpedo at a time, though it can be followed immediately by one other torpedo if the loader has had time to prepare one. These launchers are deployed aboard most deep space vessels such as the Defiant class, Miranda class, and even starships as large as the Excelsior class (DS9: "Defiant", "Sacrifice of Angels"; Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country).

Heavy torpedo launchers are found only aboard the largest Federation starships, such as the Galaxy, Nebula and Sovereign classes. (TNG: "The Arsenal of Freedom", "Redemption, Part II"; Star Trek: First Contact) These large assemblies are thirty meters long and equipped with four loaders, a single large chamber and magnetic launch assembly. Given adequate arming time, this system can fire a salvo of up to ten torpedoes simultaneously. Like the light launchers, this can potentially be followed immediately by four more torpedoes, corresponding to the number of loaders.

A number of supplemental launcher designs are incorporated into a variety of other types of equipment for use in the field. These include advanced torpedo turrets for starbase type facilities, and micro-torpedo launchers for runabouts and special shuttles equipped for tactical missions.