Navy Torpedoman’s Mate (TM): Definitive Guide (2025)

This guide provides helpful information for those looking to join the Navy as a Torpedoman’s Mate (TM) during the Fiscal Year 2025.

If a weapon launches underwater, a Torpedoman’s Mate is behind it. These Sailors handle the firepower on submarines—torpedoes, missiles, even small arms and ammo.

They maintain, prepare, and launch weapons. They work on firing and launching systems. When it’s time to fire, they make sure everything works. No room for mistakes.

A steady hand. A sharp mind. That’s what it takes to keep a sub safe.

Ready to start your journey?

Job Description

navy-tm-insignia
TM Insignia – Credit: U.S. Navy

Torpedoman’s Mates (TM) are Navy enlisted Sailors who maintain and repair test equipment, launching/firing systems, and stowage facilities associated with underwater ordnance. This includes hydraulic systems, air systems, and seawater systems.

They also conduct pre- and post-launch routines and maintain submarine anchoring systems.

TMs serve on submarines for most of their careers. When not at sea, they rotate to shore duty at land-based commands.

Inside the auxiliary compartments, they work on various weapons systems and equipment. The job can be physically demanding.

This rating provides technical skills training that translates directly into civilian careers after service or for those pursuing a long-term Navy career.

Teamwork is critical. In some situations, they work with minimal supervision.

Specific Responsibilities

TMs work inside and outside submarines, often in engine rooms or shops. These spaces can be hot, noisy, and dirty. The job requires physical labor, including:

  • Extracting, installing, and securing weapon components.
  • Replacing and testing portable cables, relays, lamps, and fuses.
  • Locating and identifying parts inside electronic equipment.
  • Inspecting weapons storage, security, and alarm systems.
  • Maintaining logs and record books for torpedoes and equipment.
  • Identifying torpedo components, tools, and test equipment.
  • Using and maintaining hand tools, specialized tools, and soldering equipment.
  • Performing maintenance on hydraulic and pneumatic systems linked to launch systems.
  • Overseeing inspections and conducting final checks on weapons.
  • Tracing mechanical and electrical circuits using schematics and diagrams.

Skilled hands. Sharp attention to detail. That’s what it takes to keep a submarine’s firepower ready.

Different Roles

Tactical Weapons Manager

Manages submarine weapon operationsAA&E (Arms, Ammunition, and Explosives), missile and torpedo systems, Vertical Launch Systems (VLS) / Virginia Payload Tubes (VPT), countermeasures, and anchor systems.

  • Oversees weapons shipping, handling, and delivery systems.
  • Supervises weapons use and handling procedures.
  • Coordinates communication and divisional operations.
  • Manages maintenance and training programs.

Tactical Weapons Operator

Operates and performs basic maintenance on submarine weapon systems, including:

  • Anchor systems, AA&E, torpedoes, missiles, and mines.
  • VLS/VPT and countermeasure systems.
  • Assists in weapons handling and loading.
  • Supports target processing and attack operations.
  • Provides munitions and security for operational forces.
  • Conducts repairs and maintenance on weapon system equipment.

Tactical Weapons Technician

Handles advanced maintenance and operations for submarine weapon systems.

  • Works with AA&E, torpedoes, missiles, launch systems, and countermeasures.
  • Oversees divisional operations, maintenance, and training.
  • Supports weapons handling, target processing, and attack operations.
  • Maintains and repairs weapon system equipment.
  • Provides munitions and security support for operational forces.

Rank Structure

Pay GradeRateAbbreviationTitle
E-1Seaman RecruitSRSeaman Recruit
E-2Seaman ApprenticeSASeaman Apprentice
E-3SeamanSNSeaman
E-4Torpedoman’s Mate Third ClassTM3Petty Officer Third Class
E-5Torpedoman’s Mate Second ClassTM2Petty Officer Second Class
E-6Torpedoman’s Mate First ClassTM1Petty Officer First Class
E-7Chief Torpedoman’s MateTMCChief Petty Officer
E-8Senior Chief Torpedoman’s MateTMCSSenior Chief Petty Officer
E-9Master Chief Torpedoman’s MateTMCMMaster Chief Petty Officer

Salary and Benefits

Salary for the First 6 Years

Monthly pay for Navy enlisted Sailors (E-1 to E-6) in the first six years is laid out in the January  2025 Active Duty Pay chart:

Pay GradeLess than 2 YearsOver 2 YearsOver 3 YearsOver 4 YearsOver 6 Years
E-1$2,108.10$2,108.10$2,108.10$2,108.10$2,108.10
E-2$2,362.80$2,362.80$2,362.80$2,362.80$2,362.80
E-3$2,484.60$2,640.60$2,800.80$2,800.80$2,800.80
E-4$2,752.20$2,892.90$3,049.80$3,204.30$3,341.40
E-5$3,001.50$3,203.70$3,358.80$3,517.20$3,763.80
E-6$3,276.60$3,606.00$3,765.00$3,919.80$4,080.60

Extra Pays and Allowances

  • Housing Allowance (BAH): For members living off-base. Covers rent, based on rank, location, and if they have dependents.
  • Subsistence Allowance (BAS): Enlisted get $465.77 monthly for food.
  • Hazard Duty Pay: For dangerous jobs. Pays $150-$250 per month, depending on the job.
  • Sea Pay: For those assigned to ships or deployed units. Depends on rank and time at sea, from $50 to $750 a month.
  • Submarine Duty Incentive Pay (SUBPAY): Up to $1,000/month based on qualifications and assignment.
  • Special and Incentive Pays: Bonuses for certain roles, like air traffic control or unique skills. These can be a few hundred to thousands per year.

Source: Figures are from the Defense Finance and Accounting Service.

Benefits

  • Healthcare: Active-duty personnel are eligible for free complete medical and dental treatment. Tricare programs are inexpensive for families to use.
  • Housing Accomodation: Depending on location, rank, and family size, free on-base accommodation or a tax-free housing allowance (BAH) for off-base living are available.
  • Food: Monthly Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS) for food costs is known as the “food allowance.”
  • Blended Retirement System (BRS): Conventional pensions are no longer available to active-duty personnel. Rather:
    • Thrift Savings Plan (TSP): Up to 5% in government matching and automatic contributions.
    • Retirement Pay: After 20 years of service, you’re eligible for monthly payments according on the BRS formula, which combines TSP savings with a calculated pension.
  • Education:
    • Availability of tuition assistance programs that pay for all or part of college tuition.
    • Support for higher education under the post-9/11 GI Bill.
    • Navy College Program to support education while on service.
  • Life Insurance: Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) provides coverage up to $500,000.
  • Vacation: ten or more federal holidays plus thirty days of paid vacation each year.
  • Extra Benefits:
    • Exchanges and commissaries provide tax-free purchasing.
    • Discounted travel via military resorts, access to fitness centers, and leisure amenities.
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Training and Career Opportunities

Initial Training

After Boot Camp at Recruit Training Command Great Lakes, future Torpedoman’s Mates (TMs) report to:

  • Basic Enlisted Submarine School9 weeks in Groton, CT. Learn submarine systems.
  • Torpedoman’s Mate “A” School10 weeks of hands-on training in mechanical theory, submarine piping systems, and basic maintenance/operations.

Training Breakdown

SchoolLocationLengthFocusMethod
Basic Enlisted Submarine SchoolGroton, CT9 weeksSubmarine systems fundamentalsGroup instruction, hands-on training
Torpedoman’s Mate “A” SchoolGroton, CT10 weeksMechanical theory, submarine piping systems, hand tools, gears, valves, pumps, and maintenance proceduresClassroom, hands-on labs

Once training is complete, TMs are assigned to submarines stationed in the U.S. or overseas.


Service & Advancement

After “A” School, TMs serve on submarines or at repair facilities on shore. Over a 20-year career, they spend:

  • 70% of their time in fleet units (on submarines).
  • 30% at shore stations (including training roles, recruiting, or repair duties).
  • Promotion opportunities are available but competitive—based on performance.

TMs are part of an elite, highly trained community. Their specialized skills are valuable both in the military and beyond.

Pay & Benefits

  • Submarine pay: $75 to $600/month (after Basic Enlisted Submarine School).
  • Highly transferable skills for civilian and military careers.

Post-Service Opportunities

The technical skills and experience gained in this role transfer directly to civilian careers. Mechanical maintenance, engineering, and submarine systems expertise are in demand.

TMs learn through on-the-job training and formal Navy schooling. Advanced training is available later in their careers. They gain expertise in advanced submarine technology. Their training opens doors during and after service.

Qualifications to Join

Basic Requirements

To qualify as a Torpedoman’s Mate (TM), you need:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • U.S. citizenship and eligibility for security clearance.
  • Above-average math skills.
  • Good manual dexterity and physical stamina.
  • Strong speaking and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to work with tools, mechanical systems, and machines.
  • Attention to detail for record-keeping and repetitive tasks.
  • Willingness to volunteer for submarine duty.

ASVAB score requirement:

  • VE + AR + MK + EI = 207 or
  • OR AR + GS + MC + EI = 207

The enlistment qualification requirements above are current as of Fiscal Year 2025, per the Navy Personnel Command. This information is not readily available to the public.

So, contact your local Navy Enlisted Recruiter for the most current requirements to join the Navy as an enlisted Sailor.

More Information

If you wish to learn more about becoming a Torpedoman’s Mate (TM), contact your local Navy Enlisted Recruiter. They will provide you with more detailed information you’re unlikely to find online.

You may also be interested in the following related Navy Enlisted jobs:

Ted Kingston
I’m a Navy veteran who used to serve as a Navy recruiter. This website is the most reliable source of information for all Enlisted Navy Sailor aspirants. In coordination with a network of current and former Navy recruiters, my goal is to make reliable information easily available to you so you can make informed career decisions.

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