MK-48 Mod 7 Guidance and Control System Contract Extension

The U.S. Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) has awarded Lockheed Martin a substantial contract extension valued at $245 million for the MK-48 Guidance and Control (G&C) Mod 7 program. This significant contract encompasses purchases not only for the U.S. Navy but also for the Royal Australian Navy and the Foreign Military Sales program, reflecting a collaborative effort to bolster undersea warfare capabilities among allied nations. Lockheed Martin is scheduled to complete all work associated with this contract by September 2027, ensuring timely delivery of these critical systems.

The MK-48 Guidance and Control program plays an indispensable role in enhancing the U.S. Navy’s submarine fleet, as it provides sophisticated guidance systems for the MK-48 torpedo, which is a heavyweight torpedo instrumental in submarine warfare. The advancements made under this program are vital for increasing the inventory of MK-48 Mod 7 torpedoes, ensuring that both the Navy and its allies are well-equipped for modern maritime challenges. This contract extension allows Lockheed Martin to maintain a consistent supply of these essential systems, which are crucial for advanced naval operations and for maintaining a strategic edge over potential adversaries.

Earlier this year, Lockheed Martin reached an important milestone by delivering the 100th guidance and control section for the MK-48 torpedo, marking a high point in the program’s production and affirming the company’s commitment to supporting national defence needs.

Tom Warner, Lockheed Martin’s Vice President of Undersea Warfare for RMS, stated, “This contract extension for the MK-48 Guidance and Control program illustrates Lockheed Martin’s ability to effectively revitalise a once stagnant technology, allowing us to produce an increased volume of guidance and control sections at a significantly faster rate. Our dedicated team is wholeheartedly committed to ensuring the ongoing production of these critical systems, thereby equipping the U.S. Navy and our allied nations with the advanced technology they need to maintain their strategic advantage in a rapidly changing global landscape.”

The MK-48 Guidance and Control program is just one of numerous initiatives undertaken by Lockheed Martin to support the Navy’s overarching mission to achieve and maintain maritime superiority. With a steadfast focus on innovation, quality, and reliability, Lockheed Martin is dedicated to delivering state-of-the-art technology systems, products, and services that empower the Navy to remain ahead of emerging threats and challenges in the modern maritime environment.