The U.S. Congress was officially notified of the potential sale of Mk-54 Lightweight Torpedoes to the Indian Navy. The Mk-54 is the most advanced lightweight torpedo in the U.S. Navy inventory and is intended to be deployed with the Boeing P-8I maritime patrol aircraft, eight of which are currently being built for India. The P-8I, equipped with Mk-54 torpedoes, will provide long-range anti-submarine warfare capabilities for the Indian Navy.
According to the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency, the Government of India has requested a possible sale of of All-Up-Round Lightweight Torpedoes, 3 recoverable exercise torpedoes, 1 training shape, containers, spare and repair parts, support and test equipment, publications and technical documentation, personnel training and training equipment, transportation, U.S. Government and contractor representatives’ technical assistance, engineering and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistics support. The estimated cost is $86 million.
The Mk-54 torpedo is currently in service with the Royal Australian Navy. Taiwan is also reportedly considering a purchase.
