Germany’s defense sector is working on a new technology that could change submarine warfare. Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems and Diehl Defence are collaborating under the Interactive Defence and Attack System for Submarines (IDAS) group. They aim to create missiles that can hit aerial threats from hidden submarines, which is a big shift from older methods.
Main Features of the Missile
Stealthy Launch
This new missile system will fire from normal torpedo tubes on submarines, allowing them to stay underwater. This method significantly reduces the likelihood of detection, enabling submarines to remain concealed against threats such as anti-submarine warfare (ASW) helicopters and drones.
Smart Navigation and Targeting
The missile will use advanced infrared sensors to detect and follow aerial targets. These sensors can work in adverse conditions, including low visibility and active counteractions. Additionally, the missile’s navigation system combines GPS for surface tracking and inertial navigation for underwater use, ensuring it remains accurate in reaching targets.
Small but Strong
Even though the missile is designed to fit a torpedo tube, it is expected to have a strong impact. Its small design does not lessen its power, making it a vital tool for submarines.
Long Range and Fast Speed
Although we lack more detailed information, we expect the missile to be capable of long-range strikes, ensuring the submarine remains safe from potential threats. Its high speed will help it hit airborne targets quickly, raising the chances of a successful strike.
Strategic Importance
This technology represents a major advance in underwater combat. Submarines with missiles to target aerial threats can effectively counter ASW tactics, pushing enemies to rethink their plans, especially where aircraft have typically been more powerful. There is already rising international interest in this technology. Future partnerships and licensing could enhance global defense capabilities.
Testing and Development Stages
The missile is currently in advanced testing to verify its reliability and effectiveness in different conditions. Key testing stages include:
1. Controlled Testing
Initial tests take place in simulated settings that mimic various ocean conditions. They control factors like water depth, salinity, and temperature to assess the missile’s stability, navigation, and target reach.
2. Real-World Trials
The missile will be tested in actual sea conditions, including different weather and waves. These tests will assess its launch stability, adjustments during flight, and overall functioning in changing environments.
3. Live-Fire Tests
Essential for development, live tests will involve hitting actual or simulated aerial targets. These tests will confirm the missile’s power, guidance accuracy, and ability to adapt to moving targets. Conducted in secure military areas, these trials ensure safety and correct data collection.
4. System Integration Testing
This stage assesses how well the missile works with submarine systems. Important factors include communication between the missile’s guidance and the submarine’s combat control centre. Effective integration is crucial for readiness and training for the crew.
Addressing Implementation Challenges
Before the missile can be used, several challenges need to be overcome:
- System Integration: Modifying the missile for both current and new submarines of the future.
- Crew Training: Creating detailed training plans for crews on submarines.
- Strategic Deployment involves developing effective combat plans for real-world scenarios.
When this technology is in use, it should change submarine defense, creating new benchmarks and affecting military tactics around the world.
Wider Effects
Submarines’ ability to hit air threats without coming to the surface changes how underwater battles are fought. Countries with strong anti-submarine warfare (ASW) skills will have to adjust to this new issue and may spend on countermeasures. Simultaneously, this advancement paves the way for further advancements in submarine technology, such as enhanced communication and increased automation.
