OVERVIEW: The CHT‑02D is a North Korean lightweight, submarine‑launched, passive/wake-homing torpedo, introduced around 2010. It was designed for mid‑range engagement against surface vessels, carrying a ~250 kg warhead and relying on acoustic signature and wake detection.

DETAILS: The designation “CHT‑02D” refers to a North Korean-designed torpedo with a 533 mm diameter, combining passive acoustic and wake-homing guidance. According to the August 2010 multination Cheonan investigation, recovered propeller and steering fragments “perfectly match the schematics of the CHT‑02D torpedo …” , indicating a 1.7‑ton weight and ~250 kg explosive load. Open‑source analysis confirms it is a successor to the PT‑97W, using contra‑rotating propellers and a silver‑zinc battery‑powered electric motor, in service on North Korea’s IS‑120 (MS‑29/Yŏno) midget submarines. Public data does not clarify its exact development date or full deployment scope.

TYPE: Lightweight passive acoustic/wake-homing torpedo

FUNCTION: Launched from small submarines, the CHT‑02D runs on a preset straight course until its seeker activates to detect the acoustic signature and turbulent wake of a surface target. Upon detecting a ship, it homes in and detonates upon contact or proximity.

NOTE:
IOC: circa 2010 (inferred from Cheonan incident)
Operators: North Korea
Platforms: IS‑120 (Yŏno-class / MS‑29) midget submarines
Conflict used in: 2010 ROKS Cheonan sinking (April 26, 2010)
Manufacturer: North Korea (exact bureau unconfirmed)

SOURCE:
Daily NK English: https://www.dailynk.com/english/results-confirm-north-korea-sank-c/ ; Korea Times: https/www.koreatimes.co.kr/world/2024; OpenSource Intelligence Naval Report: https/www.scribd.com/document/396652033/OpenSourceIntelligenceProject2011-Naval-v1-pdf