The US Air Force introduced the Quicksink system, a new breakthrough in combat technology. In the image they shared, it was seen to cut a ship in half in seconds. Quicksink, as the name suggests, has the ability to “quickly sink” targeted ships, but the technology behind this system is even more interesting. It turns low-cost, ordinary “simple” bombs into highly accurate and deadly anti-ship missiles. But how is this possible?
The US transforms simple bombs into smart munitions with the Quicksink system
Quicksink is based on the JDAM (Joint Direct Attack Munition) system. JDAM turns standard bombs into smart munitions with a kit that adds air wings and a GPS guidance system to the bomb, turning it into a highly accurate weapon.
However, Quicksink takes this technology one step further. The laser sensor added to the Quicksink kit enables the bomb to lock onto both stationary and moving surface ships. This creates a more flexible and effective weapon that can replace conventional torpedoes.
One of the biggest advantages of Quicksink is its cost. Normally, a torpedo shot costs the US a high price of about 1.2 million dollars. Quicksink offers this lethal effect for only 300 thousand dollars. What’s more, the system can be carried by a stealth aircraft or bomber, making it effective over a much greater range.
As the video shows, during the RIMPAC exercise in July, a B-1 bomber used Quicksink to instantly cut a ship, the MV Monarch Countess, in half and sink it. The US demonstrated the power and effectiveness of Quicksink.
Another important advantage of Quicksink is its modular and open architecture based on existing technology. This allows it to be quickly adapted to different operational needs. However, Quicksink’s range is limited to 74 km, which can make the attack aircraft vulnerable to enemy air defenses.