Project | Explanation |
Background | Project SEA 1429 Phase 1 was approved in December 1997 to investigate the acquisition of an enhanced torpedo capability; including, weapon performance, integration, risk, costs, through-life support, intellectual property and Australian Industry Involvement. In September 1998 the US Government invited the Defence Capability Committee (DCC) to consider pursuing a collaborative development program for the Mk48 Advanced Capability (ADCAP) HWT as the replacement HWT for the RAN. The DCC, although noting the potential benefits, decided against the collaborative program in favour of a competitive tender process. The solicitation process, which included a Project Definition Study commenced in 1999, but was subsequently abandoned when the Government decided in July 2001 to terminate the process in favour of entering into a cooperative agreement with the US Government. A Statement of Principles outlining the strategic alliance between the RAN and USN on submarine related issues was signed in Washington DC in September 2001. At the same time, negotiations began with the US Government on a MOU to develop an Armaments Cooperative Project (ACP) for the joint development of the MK 48 ADCAP HWT. Under the MOU, the Commonwealth and the US Government joined in a partnership for the cooperative development, production, and through-life support of the Mk 48 ADCAP torpedo. A Joint Project Office was then established in Washington, DC. Development of the Mk 48 ADCAP Common Broadband Advanced Sonar System (CBASS) torpedo will result in a broadband sonar capability for enhanced target acquisition. In March 2003, following a Submarine Integration Study, Government approved the scope of the project and delivery of the supplies; including submarine integration with ASC, a Torpedo Analysis Facility (TAF) at the Defence Scientific and Technology Organisation (DSTO); and upgrades to the Torpedo Maintenance Facility (TMF). The TAF has been formally transitioned to DSTO. Upgrades to the TMF and the management responsibility for torpedo sustainment, has been transitioned to Navy Guided Weapons System Program Office. A Portable Tracking Range was completed in December 2006 and responsibility formally transitioned to Maritime Ranges System Program Office. The MOU has been extended for a period of ten years to 2019 following successful negotiation with the US Government. |
Uniqueness | Commonwealth participation in a Joint Program with the US Government to develop, produce and support the Mk 48 Advanced ADCAP/CBASS torpedo, through an ACP, including evolving capability enhancements introduced additional complexity to the project. The additional complexity included requiring effective coordination of requirements management, integration, testing, torpedo deliveries and their installation in each boat according to their respective FCD schedule. The performance of the ACP is overseen by an Executive Steering Committee with senior executives from both partners. |
Major Challenges | Major challenges associated with the Project include the stability of the installation schedule when that schedule is dependent on the submarine FCD program. To date, emergent maintenance problems, not related to HWT, have resulted in significant slippage of the FCD program and, as a result, significant slippage in the SEA 1429 Phase 2 HWT Project installation programs. A second challenge is the management of the certification of the US developed Spiral software baselines for the torpedo within the Naval Technical Regulatory Framework. RAN operational schedules and priorities may also present a challenge to the testing program. |
Other Current Projects/Sub-Projects | N/A |