HMS Audacious firing upgraded MOD-1 Spearfish Torpedo

The world’s most advanced torpedo has been declared ready for front-line action with the Royal Navy and undergone extensive deep water trials with HMS Audacious in the Bahamas.
During the trials, five torpedo shots were carried out by HMS Audacious, the 4th Royal Navy Astute class nuclear-powered submarine, with excellent results. After acquiring initial capabilities, it is important to test the weapon in a complex environment, in order to obtain more data about its performance. One of its main goals is to observe whether the torpedo will perform well at its maximum operating depth and when challenged through precautions.

The souped-up Spearfish, known as the Mod-1, features a new warhead, new safer fuel system, a smarter electronic ‘brain’ and a fibre-optic guidance link with its parent submarine to improve its accuracy and lethality.

These trials took place after Initial Operating Capability was achieved, meaning work can now begin turning existing Spearfish into the improved Mod-1 version for entry into operational service with all Royal Navy submarines by 2025.

Spearfish has been the Silent Service’s weapon of choice for taking out foes on and below the waves for nearly 30 years, capable of crippling frigates, destroyers and large warships, as well as hostile submarines.

Footage @MoD Crown Copyright, BAE Systems

Видео HMS Audacious firing upgraded MOD-1 Spearfish Torpedo канала Defense Military Report