US Navy plans compact Silent Anvil torpedo as China’s submarine fleet surges
As China expands its submarine fleet, the US Navy is looking to develop a compact air-launched torpedo that could enable more crewed and uncrewed aircraft to attack submarines from farther away. The US Naval Air Systems Command issued a request for information – a step towards development – to industry in late August for the Silent Anvil Air-Launched Torpedo (SAA-LT). While air-launching a…
As China increases its submarine fleet, the US Navy is developing a compact air-launched torpedo called Silent Anvil to enable more aircraft, crewed or unmanned, to attack submarines from farther away. The US Naval Air Systems Command sought industry input in late August for the SAA-LT, which would be significantly smaller than the existing HAAWC system.
The SAA-LT would weigh up to 268lb (122kg) and measure up to 70 inches (178cm) in length and 7.5 inches (19cm) in diameter, making it suitable for broader aircraft compatibility. It could be installed on aircraft carriers, potentially allowing carrier-based platforms to carry the weapon. The SAA-LT might use a new gliding system or a kit added to an existing torpedo.
Once in the water, the torpedo would rely on its acoustic sensor to find and target the submarine. Although the SAA-LT's utility hinges on its affordable production and the aircraft's ability to detect submarines, its development signifies a broader effort to counter China's expanding submarine fleet.
Written by urgent.news from Reuters Business via SCMP's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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