The modernisation of the MK 54 will include upgrades to hardware and software to significantly enhance the probability of kill-and-meet, changing threats in the littoral environment. The active or passive acoustic homing system is fitted to the torpedo for guidance capabilities. The TG-6000 IMU guidance system is integrated into the torpedo for accurate three-dimensional measurement of motion and acceleration. The warhead carried by the weapon is high explosive and weighs 43.9kg. The torpedo has a length of 2.71m, a diameter of 32.3cm and weight of 275.7kg. MK 54 torpedoes are equipped with processing algorithms that help them in detecting false targets or countermeasures and then hunt the identified threats. The MK 54 lightweight torpedo includes hardware and software features of the Mk 46, Mk 50 and Mk 48 torpedoes coupled with commercial off-the-shelf technology to provide improved ability to tackle shallow-water countermeasures. Design and features of MK 54 lightweight torpedo The production of the MK 54 Mod 0 version will cease in the fiscal year 2020. With a new propulsion system and warhead, the MK 54 Mod 2 torpedo is expected to be delivered in 2026. The navy intends to commence operational test and evaluation (OT&E) of the torpedo in the financial year 2020, while IOC is expected in 2023. It continued with the development of MK 54 Mod 1 torpedo sonar section hardware and tactical software in 2017 to overcome previously identified issues. The US Navy embarked on upgrading the torpedo and began development of MK 54 Mod 1 torpedo in 2007 followed by in-water developmental testing in November 2015. The torpedo achieved initial operational capability (IOC) in 2004, while the Vertically Launched ASW Rocket (ASROC) (VLA) system attained the IOC in 2010. The five-year contract, valued at more than $500m, included the delivery of 51 MK54 lightweight torpedoes and related support services throughout the lifecycle. The company commenced full-rate production of the torpedo under the Navy’s LHT programme in October 2004. Raytheon won a sole source contract to produce the MK 54 torpedo in April 2003. A successful critical design review (CDR) was performed in November 1999 after developmental testing began in July 1999. The US Navy intended to develop an advanced lightweight hybrid torpedo (LHT) for the replacement of its Mark 46 torpedo. In addition to the US Navy, the torpedo is used by the Indian Navy, Royal Australian Navy, Royal Air Force and Royal Thai Navy.
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