Navy demos submarine mine-deployment capability

HICKAM, Hawaii, Sept. 22 (UPI) -- The U.S. Navy reports that its Pacific Submarine Force has successfully demonstrated its capability at clandestinely deploying mines.

The mines used in the exercise off the coast of Kauai, Hawaii, were Mk-67 submarine-launched mobile mines, which are launched like a torpedo.

The Mk-67 SLMM consists of a Mk-37 torpedo body with a modified warhead and trigger so the submarine doesn't have to pass over the area to be mined. The Mk-37 has an effective firing range of 23,000 yards.

For the testing conducted by the submarine USS Buffalo, inert SLMM exercise mines were used.

"The Pacific Submarine Force once again demonstrated successfully its continued ability to conduct submarine-launched clandestine mining operations," Capt. Harry Ganteaume, director of tactics and training for Submarine Force Pacific said. "With growing interest in Pacific maritime activities, SLMM-Ex helps to ensure that the U.S. Navy can protect American interests and assist our allies when asked.

"These exercises help to ensure that the Pacific Submarine Force is prepared to meet the emerging challenges in the years ahead."

Submarine Force Pacific provides anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, precision land strike, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance and early warning and special warfare capabilities to U.S. Pacific Command.