L3Harris tests new power plant system for US Navy’s lightweight torpedo

Tech company L3Harris Technologies has completed testing of the first power plant system for the stored chemical energy propulsion system (SCEPS) that will power the US Navy’s MK 54 MOD 2 Increment 2 advanced lightweight torpedo. 

As disclosed, the power plant system testing validated the functionality and performance of this key component and positions L3Harris to begin SCEPS design verification testing of the fully integrated system later this year.

L3Harris is on contract with the US Navy to deliver proof of design for SCEPS propulsion for the MK 54 MOD 2 torpedo, which includes the power plant system and an integrated tail and torpedo afterbody assembly.

Its Center of Excellence for Undersea Propulsion Manufacturing, based in Orlando, Florida, includes the only SCEPS manufacturing capability within the US industrial base.

SCEPS uses a lithium boiler to generate heat, which is used to create steam that drives a turbine to propel the torpedo to intercept its intended target. The innovative propulsion system will significantly improve US Navy torpedo capabilities, according to L3Harris.

“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, Missile Solutions, Aerojet Rocketdyne, L3Harris.

“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.”

In parallel with ongoing US Navy contracts, the company has been independently funding the fabrication and testing of prototype SCEPS components to further the innovative technology.

In January this year, General Dynamics Mission Systems (GDMS) was awarded a contract from the US Navy to supply advanced electronics for the MK 54 torpedoes.