Tomahawk Land Attack Missile (TLAM) variants have been
successfully launched by the UK's new generation nuclear powered
attack submarine Astute, representing an important step towards the
final milestone in the first-of-class proving trails for the
submarine's weapons handling and launch system (WHLS) designed and
delivered by Babcock.
When complete, the latest trials will confirm successful
operation of the weapon launch system over a range of speeds and
depths, and coherent performance of the complete combat system,
enabling BAE Systems and Babcock to demonstrate that the design
meets the specified performance requirement.
The Astute class WHLS is quieter and more flexible than previous
Royal Navy (RN) submarines, and is capable of carrying more
torpedoes and tube-launched missiles than any previous class of RN
submarine, optimising firing profiles for the range of weapon types
that the system can carry.
The weapons handling system comprises equipment to embark,
store, reposition and load weapons into the launch tubes. The
weapons stowage compartment features a configuration developed to
provide the highest packing density of weapons, and a unique method
of shock mounting to provide adaptable protection according to the
number of weapons stored on each stowage tier. This improves
crew safety and maximises potential for the system to continue to
function following a shock event.
The launch system is the first on a RN submarine to use
Babcock's advanced air turbine pump (ATP) and programmable firing
valve (PFV) technology to provide a positive firing mechanism and
control the firing air profile to match precisely the launch
requirements according to factors such as weapon type, speed, and
depth.
Commenting on the successful trials, Babcock project director
Gavin Borland said: "We are delighted to learn of the successful
launches of TLAM missiles by HMSAstute, which provides further
demonstration that the Astute class weapons handling and launch
system meets the fundamental performance requirements of this
highly potent and technologically advanced submarine."
Babcock is currently supplying the WHLS for Astute class boats 5
(Anson) and 6.