Northrop Grumman has announced it has won a $233m contract to build and supply upgraded Mk54 lightweight torpedoes to the U.S. Navy.
The new Mk54 MOD 2 Advanced Lightweight Torpedo is a new, enhanced-lethality variant of the existing anti-submarine warfare (ASW) weapon. It was developed in a joint cooperation programme led by the U.S. in conjunction with the Australian Defence Force.
The Mk54 was conceived as a replacement for the U.S. Navy’s Mark 46 torpedo and was designed for launch from a range of platforms including surface ships, fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters.
The new MOD 2 variant will feature “a custom-designed warhead to increase lethality”, as per an NG press statement.
It went on: “This upgraded torpedo will enhance the existing inventory of Mk54 MOD 0 and MOD 1 variants with Northrop Grumman’s advanced warhead and processing capabilities, resulting in increased performance and lethality.
“Capable of tracking, classifying, and attacking underwater targets, Mk54 MOD 2 will operate in all ocean environments.”
The $233 million contract just signed with the U.S. Navy takes in proof of manufacturing and qualification, as well as delivery of multiple torpedoes for testing.
NG’s armament systems VP Dave Fine commented: “Northrop Grumman is leveraging over 80 years of innovative torpedo technology, combined with our capacity and speed in delivery… This new weapon will provide U.S. and allied sailors with a next-generation response to counter the most advanced undersea threats.”
As well as the U.S. and Australia, Mk54 torpedoes are used by the armed forces of multiple NATO allies and friendly nations, including the U.K., Brazil, Canada, Germany, India, Mexico, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Norway, and Taiwan.
- You can read more details on the NG website