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Undersea Propulsion

Overview

U.S. Navy photo of MK 54 Mod 0 torpedo.

U.S. Navy photo of MK 54 Mod 0 torpedo.

L3Harris offers a full range of propulsion and power systems for next-generation torpedoes. Our portfolio includes the groundbreaking Stored Chemical Energy Propulsion System (SCEPS) technology, new electric propulsion systems and deep throttling Otto-fueled systems. We have the production infrastructure and agility to meet our customers' needs.

With decades of experience in designing, building, and deploying propulsion and power systems for mission-critical applications, L3Harris has leveraged this expertise to develop complete power systems for the undersea domain. This includes torpedo propulsion and seabed infrastructure, featuring safe energy production and storage using the latest battery and fuel cell technologies.

Incorporating the latest advances in digital engineering, modern manufacturing processes like 3D printing and advanced materials, L3Harris provides next-generation torpedo propulsion solutions at a lower cost.

As the original prime contractor for one of the U.S. Navy’s main torpedo weapon systems, L3Harris now focuses on developing next-generation power and propulsion technologies, including SCEPS and electric propulsion systems, to meet the most demanding missions.

Key Features

SCEPS

L3Harris is at the forefront of advancing SCEPS technology to power the U.S. Navy’s next-generation torpedoes. Home to the only dedicated SCEPS production facility in the industry, L3Harris is uniquely positioned to manufacture this advanced torpedo propulsion system for years to come. SCEPS uses a boiler to generate heat, creating steam to drive a turbine that propels the torpedo to intercept its intended target.

Otto Fuel

The traditional propellant for torpedoes, known as Otto fuel, is a thermal propulsion system that uses a monopropellant chemical mixture in a thermodynamic combustion cycle. L3Harris has optimized Otto fuel capabilities to develop a more efficient Otto fuel combustor, providing torpedoes with deep throttling capabilities to support a variety of mission requirements.

Electric Propulsion

Recent advances in battery technology and electric motor power density are enabling the development of electric propulsion systems that meet many torpedo mission requirements. L3Harris has established an electric torpedo propulsion testbed to assess the applicability and efficiency of high-power density batteries, motors and controllers for various torpedo sizes and missions.

Programs

Compact Rapid Attack Weapon

L3Harris powers the Navy’s Compact Rapid Attack Weapon (CRAW) MK 58 torpedo as part of the Raytheon Missiles & Defense team. The company provides the power plant system and tail assembled into an integrated torpedo afterbody for the next generation CRAW torpedo.

CRAW can be used offensively against enemy submarines and can serve as a defensive weapon to eliminate incoming torpedoes.

MK 54 MOD 2 Advanced Lightweight Torpedo

L3Harris is on contract to deliver SCEPS prototype afterbody assemblies for an advanced propulsion system for the MK 54 MOD 2 Advanced Lightweight Torpedo. The MK 54 lightweight torpedo is the primary anti-submarine warfare weapon used by Navy surface ships, fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters.

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