US and European special operators test Icelandic AI-based solution for marine platforms
Hefring Marine IMAS was designed to optimise vessels’ operation.
The Royal Netherlands Navy’s first updated Goalkeeper close-in weapon system has successfully completed its sea acceptance trials, Thales announced on 20 March.
Trials were performed on HNLMS Johan de Witt, the second landing platform dock vessel of the Royal Netherlands Navy.
The testing with air targets included detection, tracking and elimination of Qinetiq Banshee propeller and jet UAS with traditional and modern inbound attack flight paths. The same procedure was carried out with Qinetiq Sprite II USV surface targets.
Thales received the Goalkeeper upkeep modification contract in 2012. The upkeep modifications consist of new algorithms and electro-optic tracking capabilities that will enable Goalkeeper to deal with evolving threats, including modern, evasive manoeuvring air threats with a complex trajectory.
Hefring Marine IMAS was designed to optimise vessels’ operation.
The small, unmanned surface vehicle will operate this year in multiple operations and military exercises worldwide.
The contract was awarded to HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division and General Dynamics Electric Boat (GDEB). As well as for the building of the boats, contract money will also go towards improving productivity at the shipyards, workforce support and other investment.
The approved purchase is for Tomahawk Block IV and Block V missiles, control systems, telemetry missiles and communication and broadcast systems.
The Philippine Navy is fast-tracking its maritime modernisation with new warships, unmanned platforms, and international shipbuilding partnerships to bolster its regional deterrence posture.
Taiwan is strengthening its deterrence against the PLA through an asymmetric arsenal that includes fast mine-laying vessels and domestically developed UAVs.