OVERVIEW: The PLAB‑50 is an unguided, free-falling aerial depth charge developed by the Soviet Union for anti-submarine warfare. It is intended for release from ASW aircraft and helicopters to attack submerged targets.

DETAILS: The PLAB‑50 is part of the Soviet PLAB-series depth bombs and designed for underwater detonation after air-drop. It weighs approximately 50 kg and features a streamlined body and stabilizing fins for accurate descent. The munition is equipped with a hydrostatic fuze, allowing detonation at a preset depth to inflict damaging pressure waves against submarines. It was widely integrated into airborne anti-submarine armament during the Cold War.

FUNCTION: The PLAB‑50 is dropped on sonar or MAD-detected submarine positions and detonates underwater to damage or destroy the target. It is primarily used in shallow-to-medium depth engagements by rotary or fixed-wing ASW platforms.

NOTE:
IOC: 1950s (PLAB-50)
Operators: Soviet Union, Russia
Platforms: Ka-25Bsh, Ka-27PL, Il-38

SOURCE:
Jane’s Weapons: Air-Launched ; RussianOrdnance.com: https://www.russianordnance.com/plab50 ; Soviet/Russian Naval Aviation Weapons Handbook ; Federation of American Scientists (FAS): https://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/dumb/depthcharge.htm