The AAW system may be complemented by Tacticos, Thales' proven Combat Management System. At present the Netherlands and the German navies use the Thales AAW system on board of the Air Defence and Command frigates of the Netherlands Navy and the F124 frigates of the German Navy. Both navies have unambiguously demonstrated the phenomenal capabilities of the Thales AAW system in several live firing demonstrations. This AAW system is the result of a successful trade-off between a low-risk evolution and a daring but well-considered infusion of the latest technologies. Making full use of the inherent qualities of the SM2 and ESSM missiles, it captures the best of European and US capabilities and experience in AAW development.
The system is based on the NATO Anti Air Warfare (NAAWS) concept combined with the latest thoughts and evolutions in Area Air Defence. The AAW system features the following unrivalled performance/capabilities:
- fully automatic control by operator set doctrine(s)
- maximum detection through sensor data fusion
- outstanding high fire power at short to medium range and for stealthy targets
- supports long range intercepts up to max. missile range
- up to 16 simultaneous engagements with different salvo sizes
- inherent growth potential for Theatre Ballistic Missile Defence (TBMD)
- large ready to fire launch capability (e.g. 40 Standard Missiles (SM-2) or 160 Evolved Sea Sparrow Missiles (ESSM) or any combination in a 40 cell Mk4l launcher)
With a minor equipment modification, the AAWS has potential MTBMD capabilities. That's why Thales Nederland is also involved in international cooperation on Maritime Theatre Ballistic Missile Defence (MTBMD).
The Royal Netherlands Navy has purchased the Sirius long range surveillance and tracking sensor to complement the AAW system. The first Sirius is expected to be installed in 2008.
The Danish Navy will be the third user of the Thales AAW system with its new class of Patrol Ships that are presently being built. The first ship is scheduled to be handed over to the Danish Navy in 2011.