Thales wins support contract with Lockheed Martin
Under the terms of the contract, which covers the period April 2011 to March 2016, Thales said it will provide an availability-based support package for the acoustic sub-system for the Merlin Mk1 and MK2 helicopters developed by Lockheed Martin and operated by the Royal Navy. The Mk2 aircraft is due to enter service in 2013 and achieve full operational capability during 2014.
The five years of support calls for the replacement of the Thales sonics sub-system by a phased introduction of the Thales acoustic sub-system as part of the Merlin Capability Sustainment Program, which introduces a new common acoustic processor incorporating the latest processing technology.
The Merlin’s acoustic sub-system comprises the Folding Light Acoustic System for Helicopters (FLASH) Active Dipping Sonar, combined with a sonics sub-system for sonobuoy processing. FLASH is the Royal Navy’s principal airborne sensor system for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and also equips the US Navy MH60-R ASW helicopters, French, Norwegian and Swedish NFH90s and is in service with the United Arab Emirates in the Cougar helicopter.
The FLASH sensor is designed for deep and shallow water ASW operations and is proven in worldwide littoral environments. FLASH is the most versatile ASW sensor for use in support of operations conducted by independent warships or task groups. The system is claimed to optimize mechanical performance (weight, volume) and acoustic performance (optimal frequency).
Thales said its naval business facility at Brest will continue to be the main sub-contractor for the FLASH Active Dipping Sonar sub-system.
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