US tests the newest QUICKSINK maritime weapon variant in the Norwegian Sea
The low-cost, anti-ship, precision-guided 500lb class capability was launched by a USAF B-2 Spirit stealth bomber.
Ultra Electronics has installed the first S2150 Hull Mount Sonar on a RN Type 23 frigate HMS Portland according to a 6 April statement.
The new sonar will replace the legacy Sonar Type 2050 which has been used on several RN vessels since the 1990s. Currently plans will see the sonar fitted to at least eight Type 23 ships.
Mike Williams, Managing Director of Command & Sonar Systems said: ‘Reaching this significant milestone has been key for Ultra. With a number of significant challenges from the Sonar 2050 system it replaces, the project team has designed and developed a system that simplifies user operability.’
Smaller and lighter versions of the S2150 have also been produced for naval ships weighing between 1,000t and 2,000t.
The upgrade will enhance the RN’s ASuW capability on its frigates and OPVs.
The low-cost, anti-ship, precision-guided 500lb class capability was launched by a USAF B-2 Spirit stealth bomber.
With ongoing market research to find potential shipyards for building LCUs, NAVSEA intends to issue a request for proposals for the programme next year.
While the Australian government insists the investment is predominantly aimed at strengthening the country’s defence capabilities, the upgrade also bodes well for the AUKUS pact which Australia’s defence minister said “is going well”.
The USCG exercised a $507 million contract option for the acquisition of 10 extra FRCs. This new order will raise the total number of Sentinel-class vessels procured by the service from 67 to 77.
At DSEI 2025, Red Cat outlines its expansion from UAVs into uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), positioning itself as a multi-domain defence provider spanning land, sea, and air.
The vessels are expected to deliver a major boost to Australia’s undersea warfare capabilities, with production set to start immediately.