WASHINGTON, March 23, 2011 – The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress March 17 of a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Canada of 36 MK-48 Mod 7 Advanced Technology (AT) Torpedo Conversion Kits and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $125 million.

The Government of Canada has requested the sale of 36 MK-48 Mod 7 Advanced Technology (AT) Torpedo Conversion Kits, containers, spare and repair parts, weapon system support & 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 logistical support These kits will upgrade their existing MK-48 torpedoes from Mod 4 to Mod 7. The estimated cost is $125 million.

The proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by improving the security of a NATO ally that has been, and continues to be a key democratic partner of the United States in ensuring peace and stability.

Canada intends to use the MK 48 7AT torpedo on their Victoria Class diesel submarines (former UK Upholder class). Canada has significant experience with modern weapon systems, particularly the MK 48 Mod 4/4M and MK 46 5A(S)W Torpedoes. Canada also has capable infrastructure and experience in maintaining and supporting advanced torpedoes. Canada, which already has the MK 48 Mod 7AT Torpedo in its inventory, will have no difficulty absorbing these additional conversion kits.

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

The prime contractors for this sale are not known at this time. This sale will be part of a new contractor competition. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.

Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any additional U.S. Government or contractor representatives to Canada.

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.

DSCA press release