Canada asks for kits to upgrade their MK-48 torpedoes

WASHINGTON, Sept. 25 (UPI) -- Canada is seeking advanced technology kits to upgrade MK-48 torpedoes used on its Victoria-class submarines, the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency says.

The 12 MK-48 Mod 7 Advanced Technology Torpedo Kits, together with associated equipment parts, would be provided under the U.S. Foreign Military Sales program and carry a value of $41 million.

The agency, in its required notification to Congress, said the U.S. State Department had signed off on the deal.

The MK-48 torpedo is a heavyweight weapon designed to sink nuclear-powered submarines and high-performance surface ships. The first models came into service in the early 1970s.

The kits requested by Canada would upgrade the torpedoes from their Mod 4 configuration to a Mod 7 configuration, DSCA said. Their sale would have "no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness," it added.

If the sale is approved and finalized, the principal contractor would be Lockheed Martin Sippican, which is located in Marion, Mass.