The US government has authorized the potential sale of MK 54 MOD 0 lightweight torpedoes to Saudi Arabia under a $78.5-million deal.
Saudi has requested 20 ready-to-launch lightweight torpedoes, including spare parts, MK 54 recoverable exercise torpedoes, and handling shapes and containers.
The deal also comes with logistics and program support, involving up to two US government or RTX contractor representatives traveling to the Gulf nation.
Anti-Submarine Weapon
RTX’s MK 54 lightweight torpedoes will enhance the Gulf country’s defense against threats, particularly its anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities, as they can “track, classify, and attack underwater targets.”
Each torpedo measures 106.9 inches long (271 centimeters) and weighs 607 pounds (275 kilograms), carrying a 100-pound (45-kilogram) high-explosive warhead.
It is the primary ASW weapon integrated into the US Navy’s surface ships, fixed-wing aircraft, and choppers.
In previous years, India has ordered the same weapons to be equipped on its MH-60R helicopters while Germany integrated them into its P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft.
