US searches for variable depth sonar options on Constellation-class frigate
Rendering of the USN FFG 62 guided missile frigate design. (Photo: USN)
The future Constellation-class frigate requires a variable-depth sonar to locate submarines, UUVs and other subsurface threats.
Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) on 7 February released an RfI on potential sources for a mature, fielded variable-depth sonar (VDS) system that could equip the in-development Constellation-class frigate (FFG 62) for the USN.
The RfI from NAVSEA reads: ‘The Constellation-class guided-missile frigate (FFG 62) is a highly capable and survivable multi-mission ship designed for operations in blue water and littoral environments.
‘The FFG 62 class requires a VDS System that can operate in challenging environments with the capability to detect, locate, and identify a broad range of submarines, unmanned underwater vehicles, and other underwater objects.’
The potential alternative VDS solution must meet an In-Yard Need Date of November 2023 for ship installation.
The VDS must reach Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 9, having proven its reliable performance in an operational environment.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Austal launches future USS Augusta]()
Austal launches future USS Augusta
Sea trials of the latest Independence-variant LCS are scheduled for late 2022, even as the USN proposes to confine the vessels to mine countermeasure missions.
-
![Royal Navy decommissions two more Trafalgar-class submarines]()
Royal Navy decommissions two more Trafalgar-class submarines
The UK RN officially decommissioned the Trafalgar-class submarines HMS Trenchant and HMS Talent at Devonport Naval Base on 20 May, leaving HMS Triumph as the …
-
![Damen delivers the first of three MMIPVs to the South African Navy]()
Damen delivers the first of three MMIPVs to the South African Navy
Damen Shipyards Cape Town (DSCT) received a contract for the three patrol vessels in 2018.
-
![Denmark aims to field SM-2 across Iver Huitfeldt-class from 2025 onwards]()
Denmark aims to field SM-2 across Iver Huitfeldt-class from 2025 onwards
In early May, Denmark conducted a test-firing of the SM-2 Block IIIA missile from the Iver Huitfeldt-class frigate Niels Juel.
