Naval Group says Blacksword Barracuda submarine can carry up to 30 heavy weapons

Naval Group says its conventionally powered Blacksword Barracuda attack submarine can carry up to 30 heavyweight weapons and has six torpedo tubes. The design draws on France’s nuclear-powered Barracuda submarines and supports anti-submarine warfare, attacks on surface ships, land strikes and intelligence collection. Lithium-ion batteries developed with Saft are intended to extend submerged endurance, while a configurable compartment can support special forces, carry underwater drones or accommodate additional intelligence equipment. The Netherlands selected the design as the basis of its four Orka-class submarines, which will be equipped with F21 heavyweight torpedoes.