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Thales secures new support contract for Sonar 2050 system

Neuilly-sur-Seine, 10 February 2014

Thales has signed a five-year contract with the UK’s Ministry of Defence to provide support for the Sonar 2050 anti-submarine sensor used on the Royal Navy’s Type 23 frigate fleet.

Sonar 2050 is a medium-range bow sonar currently fitted to thirteen Type 23 frigates and is the Royal Navy’s primary hull-mounted anti-submarine warfare sensor. It also provides the ship with passive detection capabilities at lower frequencies.

Under the contract, Thales will provide physical support of Sonar 2050 for operational defect rectifications, a worldwide 24/7 helpdesk support service, dry dock and afloat support, and test equipment and handling.

“We welcome the award of this competitively-placed contract which means Thales has the sole responsibility for the upkeep and support of the complete Sonar 2050 system. We are the key sonar provider to the Royal Navy’s frigate fleet and we are investing heavily in research and development to ensure our sensors are ready to meet the demands of any future requirements.”
Ed Lowe, head of Thales UK’s naval business

Thales was awarded the contract in a competitive process by offering a value for money, low-risk support solution, providing innovative solutions that can reduce support costs and improve the availability of the equipment.  

Eight Type 23s are also fitted with the Thales Sonar 2087 towed array system in the stern, which enables warships to hunt submarines at considerable distances and locate them beyond the range from which they can launch an attack. 

The combination of these two sensors with an embarked Merlin helicopter fitted with Thales FLASH dipping sonar (Sonar 2089) makes the Type 23 what the Royal Navy describes as the “most potent anti-submarine warfare platform of any navy at sea today”.

Key points

  • New five-year contract with the UK’s MOD
  • Thales to provide support and maintenance services for its Sonar 2050
  • Sonar 2050 is an anti-submarine sensor fitted to 13 of the Royal Navy’s Type 23 frigates

 

About Thales and Thales UK
Thales is a global technology leader in the Aerospace, Transportation and Defence & Security markets. In 2012, the company generated revenues of €14.2 billion with 65,000 employees in 56 countries. With its 25,000 engineers and researchers, Thales has a unique capability to design, develop and deploy equipment, systems and services that meet the most complex security requirements. Thales has an exceptional international footprint, with operations around the world working with customers and local partners
Thales UK employs 7,500 staff based at 35 locations. In 2012 Thales UK's revenues were around £1.3 billion. 
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Contact
Sonia Le Guével, Thales Media Relations – Transportation
+33 1 57 77 91 60 sonia.leguevel@thalesgroup.com