The U.S. Navy’s P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft can carry yet another new weapon thanks to the service declaring initial operational capability (IOC) for the High Altitude Anti-Submarine Warfare Weapon Capability (HAAWC).
The HAAWC enables the Boeing P-8A Poseidon to deploy MK 54 torpedoes from near or below its cruising altitude.
The milestone follows the award of a full-rate production contract for the system to Boeing in August, squadron training, and the receipt of low-rate initial production units.
HAAWC consists of a modular Air Launch Accessory, or ALA, kit that attaches to a MK 54 torpedo, transforming it into a precision-guided glide weapon.
Additional fielding of HAAWC units are scheduled through 2024, with the potential for production to continue into 2030 under the current contract.