HMS Explorer was an experimental Explorer-class submarine developed by the Royal Navy, notable for its innovative but ultimately problematic propulsion system based on high test peroxide (HTP). The design was inspired by the captured German U-boat U-1407, which was scuttled after World War II, salvaged, and commissioned as HMS Meteorite. This salvage and subsequent research prompted a British program to explore HTP-powered submarine propulsion, leading to the construction of Explorer and her sister ship, HMS Excalibur. Constructed as high-speed trial vessels, both submarines were unarmed and built primarily for testing the capabilities of HTP engines. Their propulsion system employed steam turbines generated by the interaction of HTP with diesel oil and a catalyst, enabling remarkable speeds. Explorer achieved a peak submerged speed exceeding 30 knots, setting a record for submarines at the time, and maintained an average submerged speed of approximately 25 knots, thanks to her streamlined hull and retractable fittings. The vessel was equipped with advanced underwater escape technology, including a one-man escape chamber and modern breathing apparatus, reflecting her experimental nature. The submarines were colloquially known as the 'blonde' submarines due to their use of hydrogen peroxide oxidizer. Their primary role was to serve as high-speed targets for anti-submarine warfare training. A significant aspect of their operational history was the testing of HTP as an air-independent propulsion system, which proved to be impractical due to numerous hazards. The HTP was stored in external bags prone to explosions, and the engine room was often a site of dangerous flames and fumes, leading to the nicknames 'Exploder' and 'Excruciator' among crews. Despite their technical achievements, the numerous safety issues and technological problems with HTP led to the abandonment of the project once the U.S. Navy developed nuclear propulsion for submarines. HMS Explorer was eventually scrapped, marking the end of this experimental phase and highlighting the challenges faced in pioneering submarine propulsion technologies.

This description has been generated using GPT-4.1-NANO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.