New Zealand selects Rheinmetall MASS for MEKO frigates

Rheinmetall has secured a new customer for its Multi Ammunition Softkill System (MASS), with the New Zealand Ministry of Defence selecting the system for two of its MEKO-class frigates as part of the ANZAC modernization programme. The contract is worth €4.2 million.

Rheinmetall will supply two MASS systems in twin-launcher configuration (MASS_2L), including a long-range capability, to Lockheed Martin Canada for integration. Two naval laser warning systems (NLWS) will also be procured by Rheinmetall from Saab Grintek Defence for delivery. The system will give the MEKO-class frigates advanced capabilities to counter asymmetric threats.

Rheinmetall has added to MASS’ capabilities with the integration of an anti-torpedo capability. This concept offers the possibility of launching up to four anti-torpedo decoys from a single MASS launcher, reducing demands on platform footprint. Existing launchers can also be equipped with the new anti-torpedo upgrade kit without modification.

According to the company, any anti-torpedo system can be integrated into the upgrade kit, such as the anti-torpedo technology from French defence contractor DCNS displayed with the system at Euronaval 2014.

Rheinmetall is also working with Israeli company Elta to improve the ability of seagoing vessels in littoral waters to detect asymmetric threats such as guided missiles. Currently very difficult to detect with current shipboard sensor systems, Rheinmetall and Elta are working to integrate Elta’s NavGuard technology into MASS. This radar-based projectile warning system is capable of detecting even small incoming threats, and the integrated system has already undergone successful live-fire testing in combination with NavGuard.