Submarine Acoustic Warfare Development

The Submarine Acoustic Warfare Development (SAWS) Program, under the U.S. Navy, focuses on enhancing submarine defense capabilities through acoustic countermeasures and external launch systems. Key projects within this program include the Submarine Defensive Warfare Program, Compact Rapid Attack Weapon (CRAW), and Non-Traditional Acoustic Communications (NTAC). The main goal is to improve the survivability of U.S. submarines by integrating advanced technologies into existing systems, thereby boosting both defensive and offensive capabilities.

Project 1265, known as Sub Defensive Warfare, concentrates on developing the Submarine Torpedo Defense System (SubTDS). This project aims to deliver full internal countermeasure launcher functionality across the submarine fleet with efforts like the Acoustic Device Countermeasure (ADC) MK5. Currently in its Engineering and Manufacturing Development phase, plans are in place to deliver test units and initiate production readiness reviews. Additionally, an External Countermeasure Launcher is being developed to provide improved adaptive capabilities against emerging threats.

The Compact Rapid Attack Weapon (CRAW) Project 1267 aims to introduce a new very-lightweight torpedo capability for enhanced Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and Anti-Torpedo Torpedo missions. By utilizing technology from previous programs, CRAW will undergo two Technology Insertions to develop prototypes for testing and operational deployment. The objective is to field these capabilities broadly across the submarine force while ensuring cost-effectiveness through leveraging existing technologies.

Project 1268, Non-Traditional Acoustic Communications (NTAC), is focused on advancing undersea acoustic communications by integrating software solutions into existing hardware platforms. This project supports software upgrades and system integration efforts to enhance communication reliability and effectiveness. Furthermore, the Submarine Launch Unmanned Aerial System (SLUAS) component extends sensor range capabilities for over-the-horizon operations, further augmenting submarine tactical warfare potential.