OVERVIEW: The AT-3, also known as UMGT-1 "Orlan" and designated by NATO as E40-79A, is a Soviet lightweight, air- and ship-launched torpedo introduced in 1982. It was developed for anti-submarine warfare with improved performance over previous AT-series models.

DETAILS: The AT-3/UMGT-1 was designed by GNPP Region as a standardized lightweight ASW torpedo with a 400 mm diameter, optimized for use from aircraft, helicopters, and surface ships. It featured a combined active/passive acoustic seeker, electric propulsion powered by silver-zinc batteries, and was depth-programmable to engage submarines operating in varying water columns. The torpedo incorporated improved counter-countermeasure capabilities and updated electronics, with a modular architecture allowing adaptation for different launch platforms. It remained in Russian service into the post-Soviet era and was also exported.

TYPE: Lightweight acoustic-homing torpedo

FUNCTION: After being launched from an aircraft or ship, the AT-3 enters the water and activates its seeker system to search for submerged targets. It uses active sonar or passive tracking to lock onto enemy submarines and detonates upon contact or close proximity.

NOTE:
IOC: 1982 (AT-3 / UMGT-1 Orlan)
Operators: Soviet Union, Russia, India (limited use), Vietnam
Platforms: Il-38, Tu-142M, Ka-27PL; Grisha-class, Parchim-class corvettes
Conflict used in: No confirmed combat use
Manufacturer: GNPP Region (Russia)

SOURCE:
Jane’s Underwater Warfare Systems ; Federation of American Scientists (FAS): https://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ship/weaps/index.html ; Naval Institute Guide to World Naval Weapon Systems ; SIPRI Arms Transfers Database: https://armstrade.sipri.org ; Tactical Missiles Corporation (KTRV): https://ktrv.ru