Royal Navy Seeks Long-Range Anti-Submarine Warfare Weapon, Echoes India's SMART System

The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) recently announced its search for a new Long Range Anti-Submarine Warfare (LRAW) weapon for the Royal Navy.

The LRAW is intended to be launched from the Mk41 Vertical Launching Systems (VLS) aboard the Type 26 frigates, utilizing missile or rocket technology to deploy lightweight torpedoes over extended ranges.

This move aligns with the UK's Defence and Security Industrial Strategy (DSIS) and aims to bolster the Royal Navy's anti-submarine warfare capabilities.

Key Requirements for the LRAW​

• Extended Range: Must significantly surpass the range of current and projected threat heavyweight torpedoes.
• Versatility: Needs to be interchangeable, stand-off, quick-reaction, and all-weather capable.
• Compatibility: Must be compatible with UK lightweight torpedoes for deployment from any Mk41 VLS-equipped platform.
• Integration: Must seamlessly integrate with Royal Navy Combat or Sonar Systems and adhere to 'Secure by Design' principles.

The MoD has expressed interest in solutions using existing booster designs, with an estimated global stockpile requirement of 500 missiles. While the request for information (RFI) is not a bidding opportunity, it signals a significant step in modernizing the Royal Navy's anti-submarine warfare arsenal.

Potential Solution: Vertical Launch Anti-Submarine Rocket (ASROC)​

One potential solution that aligns with the Royal Navy's requirements is the Vertical Launch Anti-Submarine Rocket (ASROC) (VLA) missile. Currently deployed on U.S. Navy ships, the VLA offers a proven all-weather, quick-reaction, stand-off anti-submarine weapon system compatible with Mk41 VLS.

India's SMART System: A Parallel Development​

Interestingly, the Royal Navy's pursuit of a LRAW mirrors advancements in India's defense sector. The DRDO has developed the Supersonic Missile Assisted Release of Torpedo (SMART) system.

Similar to the LRAW concept, SMART employs a two-stage solid propulsion system to deliver lightweight torpedoes at extended ranges, enhancing India's anti-submarine warfare capabilities.

Potential for Collaboration​

The similarities between the Royal Navy's LRAW requirements and India's existing SMART system suggest potential opportunities for collaboration. India's expertise in developing such a system could prove valuable to the Royal Navy's procurement process. This convergence in anti-submarine warfare strategies could foster knowledge sharing and co-development efforts, ultimately benefiting both nations' maritime security postures.

As the Royal Navy moves forward with its LRAW initiative, it will be interesting to see how potential collaborations with international partners like India unfold, shaping the future of anti-submarine warfare technology.