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BAE Systems and Thales have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) outlining the development of the Main Sonar Design Authority and Integrator framework for SSN-AUKUS at DSEI in London.
This MOU builds on the decades of partnership between BAE Systems and Thales, particularly in the underwater battlespace and the industrial experience and expertise developed as a result.
Paul Armstrong, managing director for underwater systems, Thales in the UK, celebrated the signing of this MOU saying, “The underwater battlespace is one of the most complex and unforgiving environments in defence, where threats are often unseen but always present.”
“By combining the complementary strengths of Thales and BAE Systems, we are bringing together world-class innovation and proven expertise to deliver cutting-edge sovereign capability for the UK to maintain decisive advantage at sea,” Armstrong added.
Thales is responsible for the development of the Type 2076 sonar system deployed on the Royal Navy’s Astute Class attack submarines, which serve as the Royal Navy’s predecessor to the SSN-AUKUS submarines to be deployed by both the United Kingdom and Australia and developed under the trilateral AUKUS partnership.
The Type 2076 sonar is not a single system, rather incorporating a host of complex, integrated subsystems, including Type 2077 Parian obstacle avoidance sonar, the Type 2081 environmental monitor, Type 2094 oceanographic sonar, Type 2079 active-passive bow sonar, Type 2078 fire control bow element, Type 2065 towed array, and Flank array.
Henry Parker, BAE Systems integrated combat systems Program director, said, “BAE Systems is delighted to sign this MOU with Thales and build upon our long-standing, successful and collaborative relationship working to deliver operational advantage to the Royal Navy.”
Building on this, Parker expanded on these comments, saying, “This MOU unlocks the opportunity to further improve how we work together across all of our submarine programs and provides a clear and joint focus in delivering the UK sovereign sonar capability of the future. This collaborative relationship will continue to ensure that we deliver world-leading technologies and capabilities to the Royal Navy.”
BAE Systems and Thales currently employ around 500 people across the United Kingdom’s underwater warfare systems enterprise – a workforce that is expected to expand to more than 660 as the Royal Navy moves forward with its next-generation attack submarine program. The increase highlights the vital role both companies play in supporting the UK’s future submarine capability.
Thales also delivers advanced anti-submarine warfare sonar systems for surface ships, including the Sonar 2087, which is backed by a further 200 highly skilled staff. With new international opportunities on the horizon, this area of the business is seen as a key driver of growth.
The signing of a new memorandum of understanding marks a major milestone for the UK’s submarine sonar enterprise, securing world-class technology, sovereign capability and a long-term operational edge for the Royal Navy’s SSN-AUKUS fleet.
Stephen Kuper
Steve has an extensive career across government, defence industry and advocacy, having previously worked for cabinet ministers at both Federal and State levels.
