'Sea Spider' World First Anti-Torpedo Torpedo for Naval Ship Defense

The Sea Spider: A compact, agile Anti-Torpedo Torpedo designed to swiftly intercept and destroy underwater threats, ensuring naval vessels remain safe and secure.

The ocean depths hold a constant threat to naval vessels: torpedoes. These fast, stealthy weapons can cripple or destroy a ship in a single hit. To counter this danger, Atlas Elektronik developed the Sea Spider, a revolutionary Anti-Torpedo Torpedo (ATT) designed to be an effective and affordable shield against underwater attacks.

What is the Sea Spider?

The Sea Spider is the world's first dedicated ATT. Unlike traditional torpedoes with multi-purpose roles, the Sea Spider is built from the ground up for a singular mission: destroying incoming torpedoes. This focus allows it to excel in several key areas:

• Unmatched Maneuverability: Its compact size (1.94 meters long, 210 millimeters diameter) and non-standard design prioritizes agility. This enables the Sea Spider to outmaneuver even the most advanced enemy torpedoes.

• Rapid Response: Utilizing a solid rocket propellant, the Sea Spider boasts exceptional speed, allowing it to quickly close the distance and engage incoming threats.

• Shallow Water Prowess: Unlike some torpedoes hampered by shallow water environments, the Sea Spider maintains optimal performance due to its low self-noise propulsion system.

• Advanced Defense System Integration: The Sea Spider functions seamlessly within a larger torpedo defense system, receiving targeting data and launch commands for a coordinated response.

Technical Specifications

• Length: 1.94 meters

• Diameter: 210 millimeters

• Weight: 107 kilograms

• Propulsion: Solid rocket propellant

• Guidance: Advanced solid-state microprocessor with C&G logic (countermeasures against wake-homing torpedoes and salvos)

• Sonar: High-frequency sonar for effective detection in deep and shallow waters

Key Features

• Hard-Kill Defense: The Sea Spider directly engages and destroys incoming torpedoes, offering a more definitive solution compared to decoy or jamming techniques.

• Versatility: Unaffected by the attacking torpedo's guidance or propulsion system, the Sea Spider can counter a wide range of threats.

• Affordability: Designed with cost-effectiveness in mind, the Sea Spider provides a practical solution for navies seeking to bolster their defenses.

• Safety Measures: The Sea Spider is equipped with self-neutralization features, eliminating risks to friendly vessels in case of malfunction.

Development and Testing

The Sea Spider has undergone rigorous testing to validate its capabilities. In 2019, Atlas Elektronik collaborated with the German Bundeswehr for a successful series of sea trials, demonstrating the system's "sensor to shooter" functionality. Further tests throughout 2023 confirmed its effectiveness against maneuvering targets.

A significant development occurred in 2019 with the partnership between Atlas Elektronik Canada and Magellan Aerospace Corporation. This collaboration focuses on the design and development of the Sea Spider's underwater rocket motor and warhead sections, with an initial phase expected to conclude in 2023. Full deployment is anticipated for the second half of this decade.

The Future of Naval Defense

The Sea Spider represents a significant leap forward in naval defense. Its innovative design and targeted functionality offer a robust countermeasure against the growing threat of torpedo attacks. As the system progresses towards full deployment, navies worldwide will have a powerful tool to safeguard their vessels and ensure safer seas.