US approves torpedo sale for Seoul's P-8s
The US State Department has authorised a possible Foreign Military Sale for 31 MK 54 lightweight torpedoes to the South Korea to equip its navy’s P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft.
Worth some $72 million, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress on 27 August that it had approved the request from the South Korean government.
Also included in the request for the Raytheon-made weapons are torpedo containers, recoverable exercise torpedoes with containers, fleet exercise section and fuel tanks, air launch accessories for fixed wing aircraft, torpedo spare parts, training, publications, support and test equipment.
South Korea is a political and economic power in east Asia and the western Pacific and a key partner of the US in ensuring peace and stability in the region, the US government says, adding that it ‘is vital to US national interests’ to assist the nation in maintaining a strong and ready self-defence capability.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
![The Netherlands cleared to purchase $2.2 billion in Tomahawk missiles]()
The Netherlands cleared to purchase $2.2 billion in Tomahawk missiles
The approved purchase is for Tomahawk Block IV and Block V missiles, control systems, telemetry missiles and communication and broadcast systems.
-
![The Philippines strengthens maritime defences amid rising tensions in South China Sea]()
The Philippines strengthens maritime defences amid rising tensions in South China Sea
The Philippine Navy is fast-tracking its maritime modernisation with new warships, unmanned platforms, and international shipbuilding partnerships to bolster its regional deterrence posture.
-
![Taiwan multiplies mine-layer vessel and UAV inventories to deter PLA]()
Taiwan multiplies mine-layer vessel and UAV inventories to deter PLA
Taiwan is strengthening its deterrence against the PLA through an asymmetric arsenal that includes fast mine-laying vessels and domestically developed UAVs.
-
![L3Harris expands footprint across Europe via Everest NL and new contracts]()
L3Harris expands footprint across Europe via Everest NL and new contracts
L3Harris is targeting European naval modernisation with new uncrewed surface vessels, SATCOM partnerships, and regional investments including defence exercises and facility openings.
-
![BAE Systems to collaborate with Umoe Mandal on Type 26 frigate and Littoral Strike Craft]()
BAE Systems to collaborate with Umoe Mandal on Type 26 frigate and Littoral Strike Craft
The agreement is intended to boost opportunities for both UK and Norwegian naval shipbuilding.
