US Navy Contracts Boeing to Build Airborne Anti-Submarine Systems
Boeing has received a $12-million production contract for the High Altitude Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Weapon Capability (HAAWC) Air Launch Accessory (ALA).
This is in addition to the $25.6-million HAAWC ALA contract the company was awarded in August last year.
The latest US Navy contract is expected to run through December 31, 2025.
High Altitude Anti-Submarine Warfare
Boeing’s P-8A Poseidon anti-submarine aircraft can use the all-weather HAAWC to deploy MK 54 torpedoes from a height of 30,000 feet (9,144 meters).
Raytheon’s MK 54 torpedo was formerly deployed by the fixed-wing anti-submarine aircraft from a height of no more than 100 feet (30 meters).
The HAAWC features the modular ALA kit that attaches to a MK 54, turning it into a precision-guided glide weapon, reaching the water in about 10 minutes.
The system will allow the P-8A to avoid swooping down to deploy the torpedo, saving time and fuel.
Achieving initial operational capability in November last year, the HAAWC’s induction is expected in 2024.
