CONFIDENTIAL
2ND DRAFT
A project definition study investigating the possible use of the Rolls Royce Spey engine in ships has begun 7.
Submarines
28. Design and development work continues on future nuclear
submarines and their propulsion units.
Torpedoes
29.
An advanced light-weight torpedo is being developed to be
launched from helicopters, aircraft and surface ships as a counter
to the high-performance submarines expected in the 1980s. Work on
improvements to the Mark 24 submarine-launched torpedo, Tigerfish,
is also proceeding.
Non-Magnetic Machinery
30. The programme of development of non-magnetic machinery for the
new class of mine countermeasures vessel is going well, and the
prototype main propulsion and ships' services diesel engines are
now undergoing trials.
Waste Disposal
31.
Improved methods are being sought for the disposal of all
types of waste from HM ships, in a further effort to improve
environmental and operational conditions.
Hovercraft and Other Unconventional Craft
32.
Possible Fleet roles for the hovercraft continue to be studied.
ORDNANCE AND OTHER ARMY EQUIPMENT
Artillery
33.
Development of two major artillery systems, the 155mm towed
FH 70 howitzer and the self-propelled SP 70 gun, continues in
co-operation with the Federal Republic of Germany and with Italy.
When these weapons are introduced, 155mm will be the standard calibre
for close and general support guns. The SP 70 will replace the
- 95 -
CONFIDENTIAL