Mark 67 Submarine Launched Magnetic Mine (SLMM)

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Description

A Mk 67 Submarine Launched Magnetic Mine (SLMM) weighs approximately 1,790 pounds and is launched from submerged submarines. The SLMM propels itself to the planting site where it shuts down and plants itself until recovery. Approximately twenty seconds after the end of the run, all propulsion and control functions are shut down and the fuse ejector disconnects the main motor fuse disconnect. This action prevents the motor from restarting after planting.

The Service SLMM is a self-propelled bottom mine with a capability that permits it to be covertly placed in a predetermined bottom planting location. It uses a Target Detection Device (TDD) Mk 57 that utilizes magnetic and seismic sensors to detect stimuli generated by enemy vessels. The SLMM's purpose is to restrict ship and submarine traffic in an operational role. The Service SLMM employs a modified Torpedo Mk 37 as the propulsion vehicle, designated the Body, Mine Main Assembly Mk 4. Forward of this main body is the Explosive Section Mk 13/Nose Section Subassembly (Loaded) which contains the PBXN?103 explosive mixture, Exploder Mechanism Mk 19, Arming Device Mk 2, and TDD Mk 57 with its Battery Mk 131.

The Body, Mine Main Assembly Mk 4 is painted green, while the Explosive Section Mk 13 retains its galvanized finish.

The training SLMM is used to provide a means for submarine personnel to develop the proficiency required to plant the mine in a minefield. The training SLMM also uses the Body, Mine Main Assembly Mk 4 for propulsion, modified so it does not flood at end of run and so the energized training battery does not run the propulsion motor when first mated to the main body. The Body, Mine Main Assembly Mk 4 is painted green, while the Inert Loaded Explosive Section Mk 13 or Exercise Head Assembly Mk 91 is painted either white with orange stripes or orange with white stripes.