MK-54 torpedo being launched from an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer. Credit: US Navy.

Northrop Grumman has manufactured and tested the very lightweight torpedo (VLWT) for the US Navy.

In 2016, a Pennsylvania State University Applied Research Laboratory (PSU-ARL) design of the torpedo prototype was distributed to defence industrial manufacturers.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

Under the US Navy’s Compact Rapid Attack Weapon programme, Northrop Grumman funded the research and development of the VLWT.

The prototype was prepared next to the company’s Acoustic Test Facility tank in Annapolis, Maryland.

Northrop Grumman is currently the sole company in full-rate production of the MK54 and MK48 torpedo nose arrays. It has successfully delivered over 600 MK54 arrays and 70 MK48 arrays to the US Navy.

The improved VLWT baseline design will replace the expensive components, making the torpedo more affordable and reliable.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

The replaced sections of the weapon were built and tested using PSU-ARL’s test equipment.

Northrop Grumman undersea systems lead torpedo programme manager David Portner said: “The successful testing of the torpedo nose on the first try is a testament to Northrop Grumman’s design-for-affordability approach, which will significantly reduce cost without sacrificing operational performance.”

The VLWT prototype has been assembled using a Stored Chemical Energy Propulsion System (SCEPS), which was manufactured by Barber-Nichols (BNI) of Denver, Colorado.

Northrop Grumman undersea systems vice-president Alan Lytle said: “The nation needs advanced undersea warfare capabilities now more than ever.

“We are ready to support fielding the VLWT which will increase subsea lethality and enable innovative concepts of operations for multiple warfighting platforms.”

Last month, Northrop Grumman won a contract from the US Navy for Lot Nine Full-Rate Production (FRP) of the AGM-88E advanced anti-radiation guided missile (AARGM).