US Clears MK 54 Torpedo Deal Strengthening Norway’s Maritime Defense.

According to the notification published by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) on September 17, 2025, the U.S. Department of State has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to Norway for MK 54 MOD 0 lightweight torpedoes and associated equipment, with an estimated value of $162.1 million.
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The MK 54 MOD 0 is a lightweight anti-submarine warfare torpedo designed by Raytheon in cooperation with the U.S. Navy. It is 2.71 m long, has a diameter of 32.3 cm, and weighs about 276 kg (Picture source: US DoD)

The Norwegian request covers the acquisition of fifty MK 54 MOD 0 torpedoes in “all up round” configuration, meaning ready for operational use. In addition to the weapon itself, the package would also include torpedo components, containers, software, training sessions, support equipment, spare parts, technical manuals and documentation. It would also cover transportation, along with technical, engineering, and logistical assistance provided by U.S. government personnel and contracted representatives.

The MK 54 MOD 0 is a lightweight anti-submarine warfare torpedo designed by Raytheon in cooperation with the U.S. Navy. It is 2.71 m long, has a diameter of 32.3 cm, and weighs about 276 kg. It carries a warhead of approximately 44 kg and is guided by a TG-6000 inertial navigation system combined with an active or passive acoustic homing head, allowing it to detect, classify, and engage targets in littoral as well as deep-water environments. Its propulsion is based on an external combustion engine using Otto II fuel, giving it a speed of around 74 km/h. Recent developments in the MK 54 family include hardware and software upgrades in the Mod 1 and Mod 2 versions, the latter incorporating a new propulsion system developed jointly with Australia. Production of the Mod 0 ended in 2020, leaving the option for Norway to modernize its stock in the future.

Operationally, Norway will have multiple platforms available to employ these torpedoes. The Royal Norwegian Air Force operates P-8A Poseidon aircraft, already delivered, which can deploy MK 54s for long-range surveillance and anti-submarine strikes. Newly acquired MH-60R Seahawk helicopters will complement this capability, providing shipborne anti-submarine warfare coverage. The torpedoes can also be launched from surface vessels, including the Fridtjof Nansen-class frigates and, in the longer term, the new Type 26 frigates ordered by Norway. Combined, these assets reflect the country’s intent to secure its maritime approaches, a strategic area defined by a long coastline, deep waters, and proximity to the Arctic, where Russian submarine activity remains consistent.

From a strategic perspective, Washington emphasizes that the proposed sale supports U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening the defense of a NATO ally regarded as a key partner in Europe. The integration of additional MK 54s is not expected to pose difficulties for Oslo, as the Norwegian Navy already has this type of weapon in its inventory. U.S. officials also underline that the transfer will not alter the regional military balance. Using a weapon system already fielded by other operators, including the United States, Australia, India, Canada, Germany, and the Netherlands, will further enhance interoperability during allied operations in the North Atlantic and within NATO.

On the industrial side, the prime contractor is RTX Corporation, based in Arlington, Virginia. No offset agreement has been announced at this stage, though discussions on potential local industrial involvement could follow, possibly including Norwegian firms in maintenance or systems integration. Implementation of the program will require the temporary deployment of U.S. government and contractor personnel to Norway for technical support and oversight. U.S. authorities specify that the sale will not harm American force readiness.

The notified sale represents a targeted reinforcement of Norway’s anti-submarine warfare capability. By combining MK 54 torpedoes with P-8A aircraft, MH-60R helicopters, and next-generation frigates, Oslo is consolidating its ability to operate in the North Atlantic while maintaining interoperability with NATO partners.