7.2-Inch Demolition Rocket
The 7.2-Inch Demolition Rocket, also known as the T37, was a rocket developed and used by the United States military during World War II. Derived from the "Mousetrap" anti-submarine rocket, it was intended for use in demolishing concrete bunkers and fortifications, and saw use from August 1944.
Development
The 7.2-Inch Demolition Rocket was developed by the National Defense [Research Committee#NDRC research organization|Physical Chemical Problems] branch of the National Defense Research Committee, located at Caltech, in late 1943 as a modification of the existing ASW rocket for use against heavily fortified ground targets. Assigned to the United States Navy for development and production in July 1944, An additional high-explosive rocket, the T24, was planned, but was dropped in favor of the T37. The rockets utilized a standard rocket motor, fitted with a larger-diameter warhead; a longer-ranged version utilizing a motor was also produced.Operational history
The T37 saw its first operational use during Operation Dragoon, the invasion of southern France, in August 1944, fired from 120-round "Woofus" launchers mounted aboard Landing [Craft Rocket] vessels offshore.The rocket was also intended to be fired from tanks for the clearing of bunkers and anti-tank obstacles. The initial launcher, dubbed "Cowcatcher", was mounted on the front of M4 Sherman tanks; it was quickly found unsatisfactory, and was replaced by 20-round and 24-round launchers mounted atop the tank's turret. The 20-round launcher could fire its entire loadout of rockets in approximately 10 seconds; however the tank installation was unpopular with crews, as the launcher prevented the tank's turret hatches from being opened.