TNAG-0537-FCO40-632-Strength-of-garrison-in-Hong-Kong-1975 — Page 130

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

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CONFIDENTIAL