US approves sale of MK 54 torpedoes to India to boost anti-submarine warfare.

According to information published by the US DoD on October 7, 2024, the United States State Department has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale to India, involving MK 54 MOD 0 Lightweight Torpedoes and related support, with an estimated total cost of $175 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) confirmed the notification to Congress regarding this sale.
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Mark 54 lightweight torpedo launched by a US Navy's destroyer. (Picture source: Raytheon)

India has requested a total of 53 MK 54 MOD 0 Lightweight Torpedoes, alongside non-Major Defense Equipment (MDE) items such as Recoverable Exercise Torpedoes (REXTORP), air launch accessories, spare parts, torpedo containers, support tools, and training services. The package also includes technical support for infrastructure, program management, and test equipment sustainment.

By increasing its stockpile of anti-submarine warfare (ASW) weaponry, specifically for use on MH-60R helicopters, the Indian Navy will enhance its ability to counter underwater threats. The Navy already operates the MK 54 MOD 0 torpedoes, indicating that integration of the additional units should proceed smoothly.

Most hardware for the torpedoes will be sourced directly from U.S. Navy inventory, and no offset agreements are tied to this sale. The implementation may involve temporary deployment of U.S. personnel to India for training and technical assistance to ensure a seamless transition.

Comments

The acquisition of MK 54 lightweight torpedoes will significantly enhance the Indian Navy's anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities, particularly for its MH-60R Seahawk helicopters. These torpedoes are designed to engage underwater threats, such as submarines, even in challenging environments like shallow waters or areas with complex acoustic conditions, making them well-suited for operations in the Indian Ocean Region.

The MK 54's advanced sonar processing technology allows it to track, classify, and target submarines while overcoming various countermeasures. For India, this capability is crucial, given the increasing presence of Chinese submarines in the region. The torpedoes will be used to bolster India's ASW arsenal, complementing existing platforms such as the P-8I Poseidon maritime surveillance aircraft and augmenting the ASW capabilities of newly acquired MH-60R helicopters. This acquisition aligns with India's broader strategy to improve maritime security and deterrence capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region.