Video footage of Tiger Shark 533mm (21 inch) heavy weight torpedo. The Black Shark is a heavyweight torpedo developed by LIG Nex1. LIG Nex1 is in charge of developing the new torpedo with ADD (Agency of Defense Development) and the Republic of Korea Navy (ROK Navy). LIG Nex1 have done and fulfilled all the required tests, and are waiting the contract with DAPA for mass-production. DAPA is South Korea’s defense acquisition program administration.
It is said to have range of 50 km and will replace White Shark (K731 Baek Sang Eo) heavy weight torpedo in service with the Republic of Korea Navy. The new torpedo is specifically designed for the Jangbogo III (KSS-III) class submarines (4000+ tons SSK) of the ROK Navy but will be fielded with KSS-II (Son Won-Il U214 class) first. The “Tiger Shark” name is just an LIG Nex1 product name. One in service with the ROK Navy, the heavyweight torpedo will likely get a new, official, designation.
The Tiger Shark will be using the same battery type (Li Ion) and technology as the one used on the recent Blue Shark light weight torpedo. Blue Shark (K745 Chung Sang Eo) is deployed on surface ships, maritime helicopters and anti-submarine patrol aircraft as a means to strike enemy submarines. It is capable of penetrating 1.5 meter-thick steel. The new torpedo follows the development of White Shark, Blue Shark and Red Shark. This new version of torpedo is developed to strike enemy surface ships and submarines from a distance and is expected to enhance the viability of submarines.
The Tiger Shark heavy weight torpedo is wire-guided and LIG Nex1 focused on “counter decoys” capability while developing the Tiger Shark. Its range and speed will be “greater compared to the White Shark”. The White Shark has a speed of 35+ knots and a range of 350 km. Information about the developmental tests or detailed performance of the new torpedo are still classified.
