Tallboy

Summary

CategoryPenetration Bomb
Sub-typeEarthquake bomb
Origin country 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
ManufacturerVickers
StatusRetired
Year of service1944
Number built854 units

Technical specifications

WarheadTorpex
Warhead weight2360 kg (5,203 lb)
Diameter965 mm (38.0 in)
Length6,400 mm (252.0 in)
Weight5,400 kg (11,905 lb)
Max. speed1,210 km/h (Mach 1.2)

Tallboy scale diagram

Tallboy — Penetration Bomb 1.75 m 6.40 m
Speed
Mach 1.2
Weight
5.4 t
Warhead
2.4 t

Operators

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Description

The Tallboy is a British earthquake bomb developed during World War II. It entered service in 1944 and is currently retired.

The weapon utilizes a Torpex warhead. It is designed to function as an earthquake bomb, capable of penetrating concrete and creating craters. The delivery method relies on a gravity drop to reach high velocity before impact.

The United Kingdom operated the system during World War II. Combat use included the sinking of the Tirpitz. The weapon was produced in quantity for British operations.

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