US approves sale of torpedoes, SM-2 missiles to Canada, Republic of Korea

The US State Department has approved sales of MK 54 lightweight torpedoes to the Royal Canadian Navy and SM-2 Block IIIB Standard missiles to the Republic of Korea Navy.

The potential sale of lightweight torpedoes to Canada would be worth an estimated $387 million.

A total 425 MK 54 lightweight torpedo conversion kits, in addition to torpedo containers, recoverable exercise torpedoes (REXTORP) with containers, fleet exercise section (FES) and fuel tanks, and air launch accessories for fixed wing, would be part of the deal.

Canada intends to upgrade its current inventory of MK 46 torpedoes to the MK 54 with the purchase of these kits. The MK 54 torpedo is designed to be easily upgraded from the existing MK 46 torpedo.

According to the state department, the torpedoes are being procured for the Halifax-class frigates, the Royal Canadian Air Force’s CP-140 Aurora Aircraft, and the CH-148 Maritime Helicopters.

South Korea’s potential order of SM-2 Block IIIB Standard would be worth an estimated $313.9 million. In addition to buying up to 94 rounds of the missiles, ROK has expressed interest in twelve MK 97 MOD 0 guidance sections for SM-2 Block IIIB, as well as training and training equipment.

Prime contractor on both the Canadian and Korean contracts would be Raytheon.