Boeing System Enables Poseidons to Launch from Longer Range

The US Navy has declared initial operational capability (IOC) for Boeing’s High Altitude Anti-Submarine Warfare Weapon Capability (HAAWC), the company announced on 22 November. HAAWC consists of a modular Air Launch Accessory, or ALA, kit that attaches to a MK 54 torpedo, transforming it into a precision-guided glide weapon.

The all-weather HAAWC enables the P-8A Poseidon to deploy MK54 torpedoes from near or below its cruising altitude. “The initial operational capability milestone marks the readiness of HAAWC for fleet introduction for the Navy and its international partners,” observed Program Manager Dewayne Donley. The milestone follows the August award of a full-rate production contract and the receipt of low-rate production units. “It’s a major achievement for our team in reaching our goal of establishing a new high ground in anti-submarine warfare,” added Bob Ciesla, VP at Boeing Weapons.