Thales wins ROKN AW159 dipping sonar contract
Thales is to supply the Compact Flash Sonics dipping sonar for the Republic of Korea Navy's new AW159 maritime operations helicopter under a new contract with AgustaWestland announced on 22 October.
The Compact Flash sonar is a low-frequency, long-range, lightweight sonar system designed to bring intermediate-class helicopters an advanced anti-submarine warfare capability.
The system works by simultaneously processing data in real time from the dipping sonar and from active and passive sonobuoys. It features an optimised, lightweight architecture as well as a fully electric reeling machine.
Benoit Plantier, managing director, Thales Underwater Systems, said: ‘We are delighted that AgustaWestland has placed its trust in Thales to equip its new helicopter, and proud to have the Republic of Korea Navy as the latest customer to adopt our Flash family of dipping sonars.’
Thales Flash Sonics systems are in service with the naval forces of France (NH90 NFH), the UK (Merlin), Norway (NH90), the United States (MH60-R), Sweden (NH90), Australia (MH60R) and the UAE (Super Puma).
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