"In carrying our invention into effect we use by preference a fish-shaped torpedo divided into air-tight compartments, as usual for containing the explosive charge, the propelling charge, and the engine, in addition to which we, according to our invention, provide the torpedo with other air-tight compartments, in which we place the steering gear. The invention relates to means whereby torpedoes and vessels are rendered self-steering in any previously determined direction, and whereby once started on their course, torpedoes can be controlled from a station and their course altered, so as to cause them to follow a moving object until they strike it."