MK-48 Torpedo ADCAP Mods

The MK-48 Torpedo ADCAP Mods program is a line item within the Navy's Weapons Procurement budget, focused on the modernization and sustainment of the MK-48 Advanced Capability (ADCAP) heavyweight torpedo. The program aims to ensure that the Navy's submarine-launched torpedo inventory remains effective against evolving undersea and surface threats by incorporating advanced guidance, control, and propulsion technologies. This is achieved through hardware and software upgrades, technology insertions, and obsolescence mitigation efforts, managed by the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) in partnership with industry contractors.

CBASS (Common Broadband Advanced Sonar System) Kits are a major component of the MK-48 ADCAP Mods program. The CBASS kit includes the Guidance & Control Box (GCB), Broadband Sonar Analog Receiver (BSAR), and preamplifier, which collectively enable the torpedo to utilize broadband signal processing for improved detection and counter-countermeasure performance. Procurement of these kits upgrades existing torpedoes to the MOD 7 configuration, enhancing their ability to operate in environments with advanced countermeasures. Funding also supports installation of these kits at government maintenance activities, converting MK-48 MOD 6 torpedoes to the MOD 7 standard.

MK-48 MOD 8 Guidance & Control Section Upgrades are another objective under this line item. The MOD 8 upgrade introduces a new sonar assembly with higher density arrays, an updated GCB, tuning box, Ethernet device switch, and a new Warhead Electronics System (WES) for improved fuzing. The Improved Post Launch Communications System (IPLCS) replaces the traditional copper guidance wire with fiber optics, supporting enhanced communication and control. These upgrades are designed to improve torpedo performance in shallow and very shallow water, against low Doppler targets, and in anti-surface warfare (ASuW) scenarios, meeting requirements outlined in the MK-48 Improvements Capability Development Document (CDD).

MK-48 MOD 9 Afterbody Tail Cone (ABTC) Section Upgrade is planned as a future technology insertion, building upon the capabilities of MOD 7 and MOD 8. The MOD 9 upgrade focuses on propulsion enhancements for extended range and incorporates advanced sensing and processing technologies. These improvements are intended to address both surface and subsurface targets more effectively. MOD 9 hardware upgrades are transitioning from research and development efforts, with production expected to begin in future fiscal years.

Support and Ancillary Equipment funding is allocated to procure and maintain the necessary support and test equipment at Naval Undersea Warfare Centers (NUWC) and contractor facilities. This ensures the proper assembly, testing, and integration of upgraded torpedo components. The request includes an increase for the procurement of unique test equipment required for MOD 8 kits and to support increased production capacity, which is critical for maintaining a continuous production line for the MK-48 torpedo.

Production Engineering, Quality Assurance, and Acceptance Testing are essential support activities funded under this line item. These tasks, performed by NUWC Keyport and Newport, include reviewing engineering change proposals, managing configuration and risk, resolving technical issues, and ensuring contractor compliance with performance requirements. Quality assurance activities review contractor data and objective quality evidence, while acceptance testing validates the performance of contractor-produced hardware before fleet introduction.

The program also addresses Obsolescence and Technology Refresh through dedicated funding for the procurement of electronic parts that are no longer available from original manufacturers. This approach prevents costly redesigns and ensures the continued availability of critical components. Additional funding supports technology refreshes for sonar arrays and signal processor cards, as well as anti-submarine warfare (ASW) enhancements to maintain the MK-48's operational relevance in the face of emerging threats and evolving mission requirements.