Ed Lowe News

Thales has signed a five-year contract with the U.K.’s Ministry of Defence to provide support for the Sonar 2050 antisubmarine sensor used on the Royal Navy’s Type 23 frigate fleet. Sonar 2050 is a medium-range bow sonar currently fitted to 13 Type 23 frigates and is the Royal Navy’s primary hull-mounted antisubmarine 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, drydock and afloat support, and test equipment and handling. Thales was awarded the contract in a competitive process by offering a value for money…

Following an extensive Thales UK-led refurbishment and reactivation program, the Lithuanian Navy has formally accepted and commissioned two former Royal Navy minehunters into its fleet. In a ceremony at the Klaipeda naval base, LNS Skalvis and LNS Kuršis were commissioned into the fleet. Formerly the Royal Navy Hunt-class ships Dulverton and Cottesmore, the two warships are now fitted with a world-class minehunting capability from Thales, including new sonar, command and control, propulsion, degaussing, mine disposal and machinery control and surveillance systems. Thales was awarded the contract by the Disposals Services Authority (DSA) of the UK’s Ministry of Defence (MOD) to refit the two former British minehunters for delivery to the Lithuanians.

Following an extensive refit, HMS Portland has become the final Royal Navy Type 23 frigate to be fitted with Thales U.K.’s Sonar 2087, a towed array sonar system that enables warships to hunt submarines at considerable distances and locate them beyond the range from which they can launch an attack. Portland has now returned to service, with a rededication ceremony on March 21. The 12-month multi-million pound refit in Rosyth Royal Dockyard of Portland’s sensors, weapons and systems…