The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has notified Congress of a potential sale of MK 48 Mod 6 Advanced Technology All-Up-Round (AUR) Warshot torpedoes and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support to Turkey.
Under the estimated $170m foreign military sale (FMS) programme, Turkey has requested delivery of up to 48 MK 48 Torpedoes, in addition to containers, fleet exercise sections, exercise fuel tanks, surface recovery cage and tools, exercise hardware, maintenance facility upgrades, support and test equipment.
The proposed package also comprises spare and repair parts; personnel training and training equipment; publications and technical documentation.
Included in the proposed sale are US Government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support services; and other related elements of logistics support.
Mainly aimed at improving Turkey’s capability for self defence, modernisation, regional security, and interoperability with US and other Nato members, the acquired MK 48 Mod 6 Advanced Technology torpedoes will be deployed on the new CERBE Class submarines (214 Type 1200).
Turkey is said to have significant experience in maintaining and supporting advanced torpedoes, mainly MK 46 Mod 5A(S)W and MK 54 Lightweight Torpedoes (LWT), and will be capable of integrating, employing and maintaining the MK 48 Mod 6AT Torpedo.
Raytheon Company Integrated Defense Systems and Lockheed Martin Sippican are the prime contractors for the FMS programme.
Built on MK 48 components, the MK 48 Mod 6AT is a heavyweight torpedo designed to offer optimum effectiveness against all targets, in both littoral and deep-water environments.
Capable of autonomous operation or control through wire, the MK 48 Mod 6AT incorporates MK 48 sonar, guidance and control, electrical power system and quieting technology, to boost weapon effectiveness while reducing cost.
