OVERVIEW: The Yu‑7 is a Chinese lightweight acoustic-homing torpedo introduced in the early 1990s for anti-submarine warfare. It is intended for deployment from surface vessels, helicopters, and maritime patrol aircraft.

DETAILS: “Yu” (鱼) means “fish” in Chinese naval nomenclature; “7” indicates its sequence. Development began in the 1980s by the 705th Research Institute, based on evaluated technology from U.S. Mk 46 Mod 2 and Italian A244/S torpedoes. It uses Otto‑fuel II propulsion powering contra‑rotating propellers, reaching >50 kn speed with a range of approximately 14 km and operating depth around 400 m. It carries a 45 kg shaped-charge warhead and employs active/passive acoustic homing via a CIACIO‑S seeker, with no wire guidance.

TYPE: Lightweight Anti‑Submarine Warfare Torpedo

FUNCTION: Launched from PLAN helicopters, surface ships, or maritime aircraft, the Yu-7 autonomously acquires and homes on submarine targets using its onboard acoustic seeker. It operates at high speeds and is designed to intercept underwater targets in littoral and deep-water environments.

NOTE:
IOC: Early 1990s (into service circa 1994–97)
Manufacturer: China (705th Research Institute / CSICOperators: China
Platforms: Surface warships, helicopters, maritime patrol aircraft (e.g., Z‑9 helicopter, PLAN frigates and destroyers)

SOURCE:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yu-7_torpedo ; GlobalSecurity.org: https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/china/yu-7.htm ; Weaponsystems.net: https://www.weaponsystems.net/system/255-Yu-7 ; IISS The Military Balance ; Jane’s: Undersea Dragon – Chinese ASW Capabilities Advance