The M/V Monarch Countess slips below the surface after an operational demonstration in July in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico near Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. U.S. Air Force Photo
The U.S. Air Force has conducted its latest QUICKSINK exercise, successfully demonstrating a low-cost, air-delivered method for neutralizing surface vessels.
Quicksink is designed to rapidly counter maritime threats across large ocean areas globally. The latest exercise, involving the sinking of the MV Monarch Countess, took place in the Gulf of Mexico near Eglin Air Force Base, Florida.
“The development of this technology helps deliver technological superiority to ensure the United States can defend our interests, maintain freedom of action, and seize the initiative over large maritime areas,” stated Col. Matthew Caspers, Director of the Munitions Directorate at the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL).
The AFRL’s Munitions Directorate and the U.S. Navy are collaborating on a Maritime Weapon Program at Eglin Air Force Base to enhance anti-ship lethality with air-launched weapons.
A similar QUICKSINK exercise took place in 2022 at Elgin’s 120,000 square mile Gulf Test and Training Range. A video of that exercise is below:
In July, a U.S. Air Force B-2 Spirit stealth bomber, in collaboration with the U.S. Navy, demonstrated the QUICKSINK capability during the second RIMPAC SINKEX
AFRL focuses on developing technologies to address current science and technology challenges while investing in research to maintain superiority and achieve future conflict victories.
“The men and women of the Munitions Directorate consistently find ways to solve our nation’s greatest challenges,” Caspers said. “QUICKSINK is an answer to an urgent need to neutralize maritime threats to freedom around the world. This program is unique in that it can provide capabilities to modify existing and future DoD weapons systems, offering new ways for combatant commanders and national leaders to defend against maritime threats.”
Join the gCaptain Club for curated content, insider opinions, and vibrant community discussions.
Join the 109,867 members that receive our newsletter.
Have a news tip? Let us know.
China accused the Philippines on Friday of having "provoked trouble" in the South China Sea with U.S. backing, a week after Beijing and Manila traded accusations over a new confrontation in the disputed waters.
India’s $6 billion plan to build submarines has stalled because of contractor complaints over whether proper procedures were followed during tests at sea, delaying the navy’s efforts to bolster its capabilities as China expands its presence in the Indian Ocean.
China said on Wednesday it takes "necessary measures" to defend the country's sovereignty and will not tolerate "separatist" activities, as Taiwan reported another rise in Chinese warplanes around the island and called on Beijing to halt provocations.
Access exclusive insights, engage in vibrant discussions, and gain perspectives from our CEO.
Sign Up
Maritime and offshore news trusted by our 109,867 members delivered daily straight to your inbox.
Essential news coupled with the finest maritime content sourced from across the globe.
Sign Up
Join The Club
