UDT 2025 - Welcoming WASS Back as a Fincantieri Subsidiary

### Celebrating 150 Years of Innovation: WASS Submarine Systems Founded in 1875, WASS (formerly known as Whitehead Alenia Sistemi Subacquei) has established itself as a titan in the field of underwater warfare systems, particularly renowned for its torpedoes. As WASS approaches its 150th anniversary, it enters a new phase of its mission following its acquisition by Fincantieri from Leonardo, which finalized on January 14, 2025. This acquisition positions WASS to embrace fresh challenges within a rapidly evolving defense landscape, bolstered by its dedicated workforce of around 500 employees based at its headquarters in Livorno and a sonar production facility in Pozzuoli, near Naples. ### A Prominent Spotlight at UDT 2025 The first public appearance of the newly minted Fincantieri company occurred at the UDT 2025 exhibition in Oslo. WASS used this platform to showcase a significant milestone—its advanced Black Shark Advanced (BSA) heavy-weight torpedo (HWT), which is set to be integrated into the next generation of U212 CD submarines for the German and Norwegian navies. This submarine program highlights a collaborative procurement effort between the two nations, aiming to enhance their capabilities with state-of-the-art underwater technology. ### The Evolution of the Black Shark Advanced The Black Shark Advanced represents the next evolution in heavy-weight torpedo technology. Drawing from its predecessor, the initial Black Shark model, the BSA has been tailored for both international markets and domestic defense needs. Its advanced features include a 250 kg insensitive munition (IM) warhead, a reinvented battery system that operates with minimized acoustic signatures, and tactical software capable of countering adversary countermeasures. These enhancements enable speeds exceeding 50 knots and ranges of over 50 km, making the BSA a formidable asset for any navy. ### A Global Customer Base As Gabriele Bertini, WASS’s Regional Manager for Italy and Europe, stated, the initial model of the Black Shark was well-received internationally, with sales to Malaysia, Chile, Portugal, and potentially Singapore. The BSA has since caught the attention of further regional players, including Indonesia and possibly Qatar. The transition to BSA torpedoes for modernized fleets underscores their growing importance in underwater defense strategies. ### The Competitive Landscape The competition in the heavyweight torpedo market is heating up. The BSA is one of three contenders in India’s pursuit of a new-generation heavyweight torpedo for its expanding submarine fleet. Furthermore, WASS has established itself in European markets with its lightweight torpedo system, the MU-90 Impact. This high-performance weapon has gained traction due to its versatility and efficacy, serving customers across multiple navies, including those of France, Italy, Australia, and several Gulf states. ### Lower-Cost Solutions: A-244/S Lightweight Torpedo In addition to high-end models, WASS has been proactive in offering an affordable yet capable lightweight torpedo option—the A-244/S. As several European nations seek to replace outdated systems like the Mk 46, interest in the A-244/S continues to rise. Recent developments, including the introduction of the Mark 4 model, promise increased performance, providing a compelling proposition for navies looking for modern, cost-effective solutions. ### Introducing the Black Scorpion Continuing its innovation trajectory, WASS has developed the Black Scorpion, a small yet powerful torpedo designed for shallow water operations. With an operational configuration that enables deployment from various platforms and a unique capability to engage lightweight underwater platforms, the Black Scorpion fulfills essential operational needs without the high costs associated with traditional torpedoes. Its compact size and use of advanced materials make it a game-changer for naval operations in constrained environments. ### A Resurgence in Sonar Technology WASS’s expertise extends beyond torpedoes, with a storied history in sonar technology. Their commitment to enhancing anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities is exemplified by the Active Towed Array System (ATAS). Recently undergoing qualification for the Italian Navy’s PPA/MPCS vessels, the ATAS system is adaptable for various missions and demonstrates WASS’s ability to meet contemporary operational demands. ### Strategic Development for the Future The Italian Navy’s commitment to fleet renewal paves the way for WASS’s growth in sonar and torpedo detection technologies. Notably, the Black Snake torpedo detection system’s integration into several new platforms signifies a strategic investment in modern, capable solutions tailored to contemporary threats. The company’s collaboration with Fincantieri on the U212 NFS submarines’ sonar suite indicates a clear intent to unify strengths in the field of underwater warfare equipment. ### Countermeasures on the Rise As the threats from advanced torpedoes evolve, so too does WASS’s portfolio of countermeasure systems. Their latest mobile jammer and target emulator (MJTE) decoy system, designed to protect submarines during engagements, combines multiple functionalities, enhancing the defensive capabilities of various surface and underwater platforms. With customizable options for training and operational use, the MJTE represents a leap forward in naval defense technology. ### Conclusion As WASS embarks on its next chapter, it embraces a blend of historical legacy and innovative future-focused strategies. Their transformative journey—from pioneering lightweight and heavyweight torpedo systems to advanced sonar technologies—positions them as an essential player in the global defense landscape. As they continue to adapt to new challenges and opportunities, WASS remains firm in its commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions for underwater warfare, reinforcing its long-standing reputation as a leader in the field.

Photos courtesy WASS and L. Peruzzi

[1] Originally WASS was the acronym for Whitehead Alenia Sistemi Subacquei