First Spearfish torpedo tested on Barrow-built submarine

The submarine conducted three days of Sea Acceptance Testing with the new weapons system off the coast of Scotland. 

It is the first time the next-generation Spearfish has been tested on a Vanguard-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine and means the boats are now able to meet the latest threats when at sea, according to the Royal Navy.

The trials involved the Spearfish engaging surface and submerged targets, enabling the boat’s crew to operate the weapon, testing the ability to fire from the ballistic missile submarine’s combat system and ensuring command and control over the weapon.

It means both the Royal Navy’s Astute-class and Vanguard-class submarines have completed the testing.

The trials tested how well the new weapons system integrated into the active submarine (Image: Royal Navy)

The service has been using Spearfish for nearly 30 years, which is capable of destroying frigates, destroyers, large warships and hostile submarines.

This modernised and improved variant – known as Spearfish Mod 1 – features a new warhead, a safer fuel system, a smarter electronic ‘brain’ and a fibre-optic guidance link with its parent submarine to improve its accuracy and lethality, according to the navy.

The trials assessed how well the new torpedo integrated with the combat system of an operational submarine.

Commodore Chris Goodsell, who managed the programme, said: “These firings continue to be a major step in ensuring the Royal Navy’s Spearfish torpedoes remain ready to face the latest threats, with cutting edge technology at the forefront of the weapon’s success.

“I would like to thank the teams from across Navy Command, the Submarine Delivery Agency, DE&S and our industry partners who continue to commit time and effort to delivering this vital capability.”

Work continues in transitioning existing Spearfish into the improved Mod 1 version for entry into operational service onboard all Royal Navy submarines by 2025.