OVERVIEW: The 53-65K is a Soviet surface-launched, wake-homing heavyweight torpedo introduced in 1972. It was developed for widespread use aboard surface combatants to engage enemy ships by tracking their wake trail.

DETAILS: The designation “53-65K” refers to a 53 cm diameter torpedo within the 53-65 series, with the “K” suffix indicating a variant tailored for surface ship use. Introduced as a follow-on to earlier wake-homing models, it featured improved sensor reliability, better propulsion stability, and wider compatibility with standard shipboard torpedo launchers. The torpedo used a thermal wet-heater propulsion system (kerosene and oxidizer), enabling high speed and medium-range engagement. It carried a large high-explosive warhead and relied on a passive wake-homing seeker for terminal guidance, optimized for attacking the stern area of enemy surface ships.

TYPE: Heavyweight wake-homing torpedo

FUNCTION: After launch, the 53-65K travels toward the target’s estimated position, then activates its passive wake-homing sensor to detect and follow the ship's turbulent wake trail. It detonates on impact near the ship’s stern, where damage is most effective.

NOTE:
IOC: 1965 (53-65 base), 1972 (53-65K)
Operators: Soviet Union, India, Algeria, Syria, Vietnam
Platforms: Kotlin-class destroyers, Kashin-class destroyers, Project 61M, Rajput-class destroyers (India)
Conflict used in: No confirmed combat use

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