Depth charge is a type of antisubmarine weapon that is designed to be dropped from a ship or aircraft to attack submerged submarines. It typically consists of a cylindrical metal casing filled with explosives and a fuse mechanism that can be set to detonate at a specific depth. When dropped, the depth charge sinks to the desired depth before detonating, creating a shockwave and pressure wave that can damage or destroy a submarine in the vicinity. Depth charges were widely used during World War II and remained in service with various navies around the world until the late 20th century, when more advanced antisubmarine warfare technology rendered them largely obsolete.