Sonar for submarines

Thales UK’s naval business will be the main provider of sonar technology for submarines designed and built by BAE Systems, according to a new agreement signed between the two companies.

Under terms of the Performance Partnering Arrangement (PPA), Thales will be the preferred contractor for submarine sonar work in support of BAE Systems’ submarine build and combat system design work. Thales will also continue to be a key contributor to the Ministry of Defence’s Design Evolution Team, which aims to design more cost-effective combat systems. The effort is managed by BAE Systems.

BAE Systems believes its work with Thales Underwater Systems over the years has led to much business success and the company anticipates similar results in the future.

‘The per­formance of UK sonar technology, and of Sonar 2076 in particular, is world leading,’ said Jon Sayer, director of combat systems and support for BAE Systems. ‘BAE Systems is very pleased to enter into this agreement to sustain the supply of this capability into the submarines we design and build - today and in the future.’

The sentiment was echoed by Royal Navy Captain Pat O’Neill, the combat system group leader in the sub­mar­ines cluster of the defence equipment and support (DE&S) organisation.

‘This partnering arrangement is very welcome,’ he said. ‘It recognises the ongoing contribution of Thales to the Royal Navy’s submarine sonar programme, which is delivering world-class performance at sea.

‘It provides a framework for the overall UK Submarine Combat System

, including frontline forces, DE&S and industry, to benefit from ongoing relationships.’