Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 54:47-55:09

RUM-139 ASROC and Royal Navy Mk 41 launchers

ASROC would improve long-range ASW, but early British Mk 41 cells may emphasize land-attack weapons.

Anti-Submarine WarfareMark 41 VLSMissilesRoyal NavyRUM-139 ASROC
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Question

Will the Royal Navy adopt RUM-139 ASROC?

Short answer

It would be valuable, but planned Mk 41 cells may initially be used more heavily for land-attack missiles.

Notes

RUM-139 would add a useful standoff anti-submarine capability to the Royal Navy. Planned Mk 41 launchers create the physical opportunity to carry it. Early British loadouts may nevertheless prioritize Tomahawk or similar land-attack weapons. Launcher compatibility is separate from the budgetary and doctrinal choice of which missiles actually occupy the cells.