Description

The MK 54 lightweight torpedo, previously known as the Lightweight Hybrid Torpedo (LHT), is a surface ship and aircraft-launched anti-submarine weapon.

The MK 54 MOD 0 Lightweight Torpedo integrates existing torpedo hardware and software from the MK 46 and MK 50 torpedo programs with state-of-the-art commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) digital signal-processing technology. It incorporates an advanced guidance and control (G&C) section employing COTS processing technologies and tactical software improvements to significantly increase torpedo performance in challenging scenarios at reduced lifecycle costs. Continuous software improvements are delivered through the Torpedo Advanced Processor Build (TAPB) process. The newest lightweight torpedo variant, the MK 54 MOD 1, provides a hardware upgrade to the sonar array assembly and associated electronics.

 

The MK 54 MOD 0 reached Initial Operational Capability (IOC) in 2004, while the MK 54 MOD 1 reached IOC in 2023. The MK 54 Vertical Launched Anti-Submarine Rocket (ASROC) (VLA) system reached IOC in 2010.

 General Characteristics, MK 54

Primary Function: Lightweight Torpedo

Contractor: Raytheon, Ultra Electronics, Progeny Systems

Propulsion: Liquid propellant

Length: 106.9 inch

Diameter: 12.75 inch

Weight: 607 pounds

Warhead: 100 pounds, high-explosive