The US State Department has approved the potential sale of Mk-54 lightweight torpedoes to Germany for integration into the country’s P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft.
Berlin has requested up to 80 Mk-54s from Raytheon for an estimated $300 million, according to a US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announcement.
The nation also wants recoverable exercise torpedoes, necessary spare parts, and tools for mounting and dismounting related air launch accessories.
Once delivered, the weapons are expected to upgrade the anti-submarine warfare capabilities of the Boeing warplane.
They will also reportedly help the German military counter current and future threats in the maritime environment.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the US by improving the security of a NATO ally that is an important force for political and economic stability in Europe,” the DSCA announcement stated.
About the Mk-54
Raytheon’s Mk-54 torpedo is the US Navy’s primary anti-submarine weapon.
It can be integrated into surface ships, fixed-wing aircraft, and helicopters.
Designed to operate in shallow waters and in the presence of countermeasures, the weapon can track, classify, and attack underwater targets with its 97-pound (44-kilogram), high-explosive warhead.
When launched, it travels toward its target at a maximum speed of 40 knots (74 kilometers/46 miles per hour).
Unlike its older variants, the Mk-54 boasts an advanced guidance and control section and tactical software improvements for improved shallow water counter-countermeasure capability.
Apart from the US Navy, the torpedo is currently in service with the Indian Navy, Royal Thai Navy, Royal Air Force, and Royal Australian Navy.
