OVERVIEW: The Mk 48 Mod 6 ADCAP is a heavyweight U.S. Navy submarine-launched torpedo fielded in 1997, further advancing the Advanced Capability (ADCAP) series. It features significant improvements in guidance, control, propulsion, and onboard software.

DETAILS: “Mod 6” is the ADCAP torpedo with two major hardware upgrades: a new Guidance & Control (G&C) unit and an enhanced Torpedo Propulsion Unit (TPU). The G&C upgrade includes an improved acoustic receiver, expanded memory, faster processing, and introduces the Torpedo Downloader System (TDS) that allows software updates while deployed. The TPU modification reduces noise signature, making the torpedo harder to detect. It retains the 21‑in diameter, ~5.79 m length, and ~1 676 kg weight of Mod 5, with performance maintaining speeds up to 55 kn, depths over 1 200 ft, and range exceeding 38 km. IOC was achieved in 1997, with Mod 6 torpedoes replacing all preceding Mod 5 ADCAP units by early 2000s.

TYPE: Heavyweight submarine-launched wire-guided dual-purpose acoustic homing torpedo (ADCAP Mod 6)

FUNCTION: Launched from 21‑in submarine tubes, the Mk 48 Mod 6 ADCAP uses two-way wire guidance (TELCOM) for mid‑course updates and switches to advanced active/passive sonar homing in the terminal phase. Its quieter propulsion and digital guidance enable effective engagement of deep-diving, high-speed submarines and surface vessels, with seamless software updates via TDS.

NOTE:
IOC: 1997
Manufacturer: Honeywell/Gould (guidance), Westinghouse/Raytheon (propulsion), USA
Operators: United States; Australia, Canada, Brazil, Netherlands, Taiwan
Platforms: U.S. Navy submarines (e.g., Los Angeles-, Ohio-class) and allied equivalents
Conflict used in: No confirmed combat deployment

SOURCE: Mark 48 torpedo (Wikipedia); NavWeaps “Post‑World War II Torpedoes of the United States”; GlobalSecurity/FAS “Mk 48 Mod 6 ADCAP” specifications; U.S. Navy DOT&E FY97 ADCAP Upgrades report