A Limpet Mine is a type of naval mine designed to be attached to a target using magnets. It derives its name from its resemblance to the limpet, a sea snail that clings tightly to hard surfaces. The Limpet Mine is an underwater charge incorporating a time-delay exploder, intended to be magnetically fixed to the hull of a ship or submarine, or secured using a nylon belt. It is intended for offensive use by divers in underwater sabotage operations.
The mine is typically deployed by a swimmer or diver and is designed with hollow compartments to achieve slight negative buoyancy, making it easier to handle underwater. It can also be easily transported on a chariot.
The mine is placed on specific points of a ship’s underwater hull to achieve maximum destructive effect using powerful magnets. Once armed, it detonates after a preset delay, with the explosive charge damaging the hull and compromising the vessel's watertight integrity—thereby crippling or potentially sinking the ship. The mine is designed to be deployable at depths of up to 30 metres.
