OVERVIEW: The Type 81 is a ship-mounted, unguided, short-range Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) rocket salvo launcher developed by China as an improved version of earlier Soviet-derived systems. It features a five-tube launcher capable of firing rockets in rapid salvos against submerged threats.

DETAILS: The Type 81 ASW rocket launcher is a Chinese-designed anti-submarine weapon modeled after the Soviet RBU-1200 system. It consists of five fixed-angle tubes arranged in a fan-shaped pattern, firing unguided rockets equipped with proximity or impact fuzes. These projectiles are launched in rapid succession to create a saturation effect over an underwater zone, typically targeting enemy submarines operating at close range. The launcher is manually reloaded and provides a cost-effective defensive capability for small and medium-sized naval combatants.

The Type 81 differs from the earlier Type 65 by adopting a 5-round configuration and incorporating localized enhancements to fire control integration and mechanical reliability. It retains compatibility with standard ASW rockets and is often fitted on patrol and escort ships requiring basic ASW coverage. Compared to its predecessors, it features a more compact layout and improved structural reinforcement.

The launcher is fixed in position, requiring the vessel to align toward the intended target bearing. Targeting data is usually fed from onboard sonar systems, and launch is executed through an integrated fire control console or manually, depending on the platform. Its simple construction allows for ease of maintenance and quick deployment in confined maritime environments.

NOTE:
IOC: Early 1980s
Operators: China, Bangladesh, North Korea
Platforms: Type 037 submarine chasers, auxiliary ASW patrol ships
Conflict used in: No confirmed combat use; used in Cold War-era and coastal ASW operations

SOURCE:
Jane’s Naval Weapon Systems ; GlobalSecurity.org: https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/china/type-81.htm ; U.S. Naval Institute: https://www.usni.org ; China Defense Industry Yearbook