Thales relies on key suppliers for Canada’s new Joint Support Ships

Thales, in its role as Seaspan Shipyards’ Electronic Systems Integrator for the Canadian National Shipbuilding Strategy’s non-combat vessels, has awarded key contracts for Canada’s new Joint Support Ships. Contracts have been awarded to DRS Technologies Canada Ltd. (DRS TCL), located in Ottawa, Ontario, and OSI Maritime Systems (OSI) located in Burnaby, British Columbia.

Under the National Shipbuilding Strategy, Thales is a Tier One partner and the Electronic Systems Integrator for Seaspan Shipyards for the non-combat vessels. Thales is responsible for the procurement and integration of key systems and equipment for these important ships, including the Royal Canadian Navy’s new Joint Support Ships and the Offshore Fisheries Science Vessels and the Offshore Oceanographic Science Vessel for the Canadian Coast Guard.

Seaspan Shipyards relies on Thales’ decades of experience managing complex supply chains across multiple markets, with the know-how required to successfully integrate the systems onboard these important vessels for the Royal Canadian Navy. 

Under its contract with Thales, OSI will supply and support the installation of an Integrated Bridge and Navigation System (IBNS). OSI’s Integrated Navigation and Tactical System is a fully scalable IMO (International Maritime Organization) and NATO compliant system. 

DRS Technologies Canada Ltd. will provide the Internal Communications Systems, which consists of the Secure Voice and Tactical Intercommunication System, Ship’s Telephone System and Main Broadcast and Alarm System. 

Thales will be integrating the Internal Communications Systems with the other communication, control and monitoring systems on board the vessels to provide a complete, integrated communication solution for the Joint Support Ships to support sailors with the best available information in every decisive moment.

“As a key partner to Seaspan Shipyards, Thales is committed to delivering systems that meet the operational needs of the Royal Canadian Navy for their new Joint Support Ships,” said Dale Potter, Vice President, Defence Mission Systems, Thales Canada. “The engagement of suppliers such as OSI and DRS Technologies Canada Ltd. are prime examples of how the National Shipbuilding Strategy is generating positive economic benefits in communities across the country while delivering these important ships to the Royal Canadian Navy.”

”These contracts are the latest example of the growing Canadian supply chain being developed as Seaspan and partners like Thales work together under the National Shipbuilding Strategy,” said Mark Lamarre, CEO of Seaspan Shipyards. “The work taking place at OSI and DRS Technologies Canada Ltd. is indicative of the world class standard of products and services that Canadian companies are able to competitively deliver as part of the broader shipbuilding industry.”