Lockheed marks 250th delivery of MK 48 torpedo system

Lockheed Martin has announced the delivery of its 250th MK 48 Guidance and Control (G&C) Section, a critical component of the MK 48 Advanced Capability (ADCAP) torpedo, used by the U.S. Navy and several allied submarine fleets.

The milestone, confirmed in a 28 July press release, coincides with the U.S. Navy’s 250th anniversary.

The G&C Section plays a central role in the torpedo’s operation. It enables the system to detect, track and engage fast-moving, evasive or deep-diving targets with precision, even in complex and dynamic undersea environments. According to Lockheed Martin, the section’s advanced processing and flexible response capabilities make it highly effective in time-sensitive and high-pressure engagements.

“The power plant system is at the very heart of the propulsion system that will power the Navy’s MK 54 MOD 2 torpedo,” said Scott Alexander, President of Missile Solutions at Aerojet Rocketdyne, a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin. “We are pleased with the performance of the system during these tests and look forward to completing design verification testing of the entire afterbody later this year.”

Lockheed Martin described the achievement as a demonstration of its ability to revitalise dormant technologies while maintaining high standards. “The production of 250 Guidance and Control Sections is a testament to Lockheed Martin’s unrelenting pursuit of excellence and its commitment to supporting the U.S. Navy’s mission,” the company said in itschat statement.

“This achievement demonstrates Lockheed Martin’s ability to aggressively revitalise a once-dormant technology, while maintaining the highest standards of quality and performance,” it added.

Tom Warner, Vice President of Undersea Warfare at Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems, said the delivery reflected a broader commitment to submarine lethality and readiness. “Reaching the production of the 250th MK 48 Guidance and Control Section marks a major milestone in our mission to deliver new torpedoes to the fleet,” he said. “It’s a fitting achievement that this comes as the U.S. Navy celebrates its 250th birthday this year – a powerful reminder of our enduring commitment to those who serve.”

The MK 48 Heavyweight Torpedo remains a central asset in the U.S. Navy’s undersea warfare inventory. The G&C Section allows it to operate in real-time, adjust to changing conditions, and strike targets with accuracy.

Lockheed Martin manufactures the systems at its facility in Orlando, Florida, described as the U.S. industrial base’s only centre dedicated to this capability.