Dutch to Buy $150M Torpedo Upgrade Kits

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress today of a possible Foreign Military Sale to The Netherlands of 40 MK- 48 Mod 7 Advanced Technology (AT) Torpedo Conversion Kits and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $150 million.

The Government of The Netherlands has requested a possible sale of 40 MK- 48 Mod 7 Advanced Technology (AT) Torpedo Conversion Kits, 40 containers, support and test equipment, spare and repair parts, weapon system support and integration, publications and technical documentation, personnel training and training equipment, U.S. Government and contractor engineering and technical, and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistics support. The estimated cost is $150 million.

This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve security of a NATO ally which has been, and continues to be, an important force for political stability and economic progress in Northern Europe.

The sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The Netherlands desire to upgrade its current stock of MK 48 Mod 4 torpedoes to the MK 48 Mod 7 AT model. The Netherlands intend to use the MK 48 Mod 7AT Torpedo on its Walrus Class submarines. The Netherlands has significant experience in maintaining and supporting advanced torpedoes, such as the MK 48 Mod 4/4M and MK 46 5A(S)W models, and the current infrastructure will require minimal updates. The Netherlands will have no difficulty absorbing the MK 48 Mod 7 AT into its inventory.

Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any additional U.S. Government or contractor representatives to The Netherlands. Contractor Engineering and Technical Services (CETS) may be required on an interim basis for installations.

The prime contractor will be Raytheon Company Integrated Defense Systems in Keyport, Washington. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this sale.

There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale. This notice of a potential sale is required by law and does not mean the sale has been concluded.