The Royal Navy has successfully tested the next-generation Spearfish weapons system from a Vanguard-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine during Sea Acceptance Testing off the coast of Scotland.
The tests were carried out at the British Underwater Test and Evaluation Centre (BUTEC) and marked the first time that the next-generation Spearfish torpedo – known as Spearfish Mod 1 – has been test-fired from a Vanguard-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine. The tests involved the weapon system engaging both surface and submerged targets, enabling the boat’s crew to operate the new weapon, testing the ability to fire from the ballistic missile submarine’s combat system, and ensuring command and control over the weapon.
Developed by BAE Systems, Spearfish Mod 1 features a new warhead, a safer fuel system, a smarter electronic ‘brain’ and a fibre-optic guidance link with its parent submarine to improve its accuracy and lethality.
Both the Royal Navy’s Astute-class and Vanguard-class submarines have now completed the testing.
The Spearfish torpedo is the heavy torpedo used by the submarines of the Royal Navy. It can be guided by wire or by autonomous active or passive sonar, providing both anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and anti-surface warfare (ASuW) capability. The development of Spearfish began in the 1970s, with production commencing in 1988, and deployment in 1992. By 2004, the new weapon had completely replaced the older Tigerfish torpedo.
Commodore Chris Goodsell, the Senior Responsible Owner for the programme and Deputy Director Submarines, said: “These firings continue to be a major step in ensuring the Royal Navy’s Spearfish torpedoes remain ready to face the latest threats, with cutting edge technology at the forefront of the weapon’s success.”
“I would like to thank the teams from across Navy Command, the Submarine Delivery Agency, DE&S and our industry partners who continue to commit time and effort to delivering this vital capability.”
Spearfish Mod 1 is expected to enter into operational service onboard all Royal Navy submarines by 2025.
