Lightweight Torpedo Development

The PE 0604610N: Lightweight Torpedo Development program is a Navy Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) initiative focused on advancing the capabilities of the MK 54 Lightweight Torpedo (LWT) family. The overarching goal is to address evolving anti-submarine warfare (ASW) threats by incrementally upgrading hardware and software, integrating new propulsion and warhead technologies, and improving delivery methods. The program supports rapid fielding of improvements to the fleet by leveraging common architectures and modular upgrades. This approach helps ensure the Navy maintains effective countermeasures against increasingly sophisticated adversary submarines in diverse operational environments.

Project Unit 1412 aimed to enhance the P-8A Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Aircraft's ability to deploy MK 54 torpedoes from high altitude, expanding operational flexibility and reach. The program completed operational testing and was fielded to the fleet, with Initial Operating Capability declared in FY 2023. HAAWC development was cancelled due to a restructuring of the MK 54 MOD 2 program, as MOD 2's design is incompatible with the current HAAWC system. Previous efforts focused on hardware development, systems engineering, and test and evaluation, primarily executed by Boeing and various Navy Warfare Centers.

Project Unit 2234 centers on the MK 54 MOD 1, which delivers improved performance in shallow water and environments with advanced countermeasures. The MOD 1 program is divided into two increments: Increment 1 involves hardware upgrades and APB 5 software, while Increment 2 focuses on APB 6 software enhancements. FY 2026 funds are allocated for continued APB 6 development, engineering testing, and integration with launch platforms such as the P-8A, MH-60R, and surface ships. The program also supports the development of a Fleet Exercise Section instrumentation subsystem and addresses emergent capability gaps. Software and hardware development are led by NUWC Newport and Progeny Systems.

Project Unit 3418 is designed to deliver increased lethality against challenging adversary submarines. The program utilizes an incremental approach: Increment 1 focuses on rapid prototyping of an All-Up-Round (AUR) combining new MOD 2 Forebody sections with legacy Afterbody, while Increment 2 will introduce a new Stored Chemical Energy Propulsion System (SCEPS) for enhanced speed, depth, and endurance. FY 2026 funding supports contract awards for rapid prototyping, operational software development, modeling and simulation, and integration of new hardware. The acquisition strategy leverages University Affiliated Research Centers, Warfare Centers, and competitive Other Transactional Authority agreements to accelerate prototyping and fielding.

Across all projects, the program's objectives include developing and qualifying new hardware (warhead, guidance and control, propulsion), advancing operational software (APB builds), and integrating improved torpedo variants with existing and future launch platforms. Test and evaluation activities are conducted at Navy Warfare Centers and involve developmental and operational testing, modeling, and simulation to validate performance and suitability. The program also funds systems engineering and program management support to ensure technical integration and efficient execution.

Justification for these efforts is rooted in the need to maintain technological superiority in ASW, counter emerging submarine threats, and address obsolescence in legacy systems. The incremental approach is intended to reduce annual costs, deliver partial capabilities quickly, and mature production lines for rapid fielding. Funding adjustments in recent years reflect congressional actions, acquisition strategy changes, and alignment with government efficiency initiatives. Mandatory reconciliation funds in FY 2026 are designated for manufacturing, testing, and evaluation contracts to support supply chain and munitions priorities.