Who invented the depth charge?

The depth charge was developed by the British Royal Navy during World War I, with significant contributions from various naval designers. Its early design was influenced by the work of Admiral Sir Reginald Aylmer Ranfurly Plunkett-Ernle-Erle-Drax and others who sought to counter the threat posed by submarines. The first effective depth charge was introduced in 1916, marking a pivotal advancement in anti-submarine warfare.