Torpedo trials a success

The first Australian launch of a Mk46 torpedo using the MU90 System proved a great success as part of Project Djimindi.

Weapons maintainers from HMAS Parramatta led by POETW Scott Boak (left) with the MU90 System.

Successful trials were recently held on board HMAS Parramatta
(CMDR Mike Noonan) to test the capability of a new lightweight anti-submarine warfare torpedo for the Navy and RAAF.

Project Djimindi, an Alliance project comprising participants from the CoA, Thales Underwater Systems and Eurotorp is testing the MU90 System.

The MU90 System is capable of launching both the MU90 and the current MK46 lightweight torpedoes.

The first MU90 System was installed on board the Navy’s newest ship HMAS Parramatta as part of her build program.

During Parramatta’s post delivery shakedown, the final stage of production testing (sea acceptance testing) was conducted. The aim of the trial was to evaluate the MU90 lightweight torpedo system’s MK46 capability.

Despite unfavourable weather conditions, which required the rescheduling of programmed firings, production testing was successfully conducted at sea in the Eastern Australia Exercise Area.

Two Mk 46 torpedoes were successfully launched, proving conclusively that the new lightweight system is safe and effective.

The trial would not have been possible without the great assistance and support from ship’s company, in particular LCDR Marty Charles (WEEO), LEUT Travis Jones (TASO) and POETW Scott Boak.

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