L3Harris completes power plant testing for new US Navy torpedo propulsion system

L3Harris Technologies has successfully completed testing of the first power plant system for the stored chemical energy propulsion system (SCEPS) that will power the US Navy’s new MK 54 MOD 2 Increment 2 advanced lightweight torpedo.

The company stated that the power plant system testing validated the functionality and performance of this key component. The successful test now positions L3Harris to begin design verification testing of the fully integrated system later this year.

The company is under contract with the navy to deliver proof of design for the SCEPS propulsion system, which includes the power plant and an integrated torpedo afterbody assembly.

Scott Alexander, President of Missile Solutions at company subsidiary Aerojet Rocketdyne stated that the team is pleased with the system's performance and looks forward to completing the full design verification testing later this year.

The SCEPS propulsion system uses a lithium boiler to generate steam that drives a turbine. L3Harris said the new technology will significantly improve US Navy torpedo capabilities.