Royal Navy begins initiative to maintain its anti-submarine edge

The RN is unlikely to see an increase in its major anti-submarine platforms in the near future. Recognising the danger posed by the continually evolving underwater threat, it has launched ASW Spearhead, an initiative to maximise the effectiveness of the assets its already has. There will be some new hardware, in the form of new sonars but much of the focus is on improving software, building sensor networks and giving the operators new decision-making tools.

The attack submarine remains the greatest single danger to naval operations, not only to the seaborne trade the UK economy depends upon but the nuclear deterrent, the carrier strike group and amphibious forces. The RN has experienced personnel recognised as world leaders in ASW and has some very high-quality submarine-hunting platforms. Unfortunately, numbers are wholly inadequate and disproportionately small in comparison with the underwater threat posed to the UK. Finances and industrial capacity restraints mean the UK ASW ORBAT will essentially consist of; 7 Trafalgar/Astute submarines, 8 Type 23/26 frigates, 30 Merlin Mk2 helicopters (of which at least 6 are needed for Crowsnest ASaC duties) and 9 Poseidon MRA Mk1 Maritime Patrol Aircraft. Any measures that can increase the potency and reach of these scarce assets must be welcomed.

ASW Spearhead is part of a broader effort by the RN to take advantage of rapidly evolving new computing and communications technologies which are relatively low cost but can deliver substantial gains. This also presents a great opportunity for academia and new high technology suppliers to engage with the navy to deliver niche capabilities. ASW Spearhead consists of 6 main projects which are outlined below.

https://www.savetheroyalnavy.org/royal-navy-begins-initiative-to-maintain-its-anti-submarine-edge/