TKMS ATLAS UK has been awarded the contract for the UK Ministry of Defence’s (MoD) Next Generation Countermeasure (NGCM) programme, intended to equip the Royal Navy’s submarine fleet with updated defences against underwater threats.
The contract, which forms part of the broader Underwater Defensive Aids Suite, was formally announced by the MoD following a procurement process for a capability set to be delivered between 2025 and 2032.
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According to information released by TKMS ATLAS UK, the NGCM programme aims to produce a new submarine-based system designed to tackle evolving torpedo threats in underwater environments, both now and in the future.
The system will be developed using a spiral approach, iteratively improving and upgrading the technology over time to retain its effectiveness in the face of advancing threats.
TKMS ATLAS UK will draw on its longstanding research in torpedo countermeasures and its technical knowledge in hydro-acoustics, sonar, underwater communications, sensor engineering, and systems integration.
In addition, the company will collaborate with Babcock International Group, which will contribute experience in countermeasure launcher technology and platform integration, along with long-term maintenance support for Royal Navy submarines.
While the precise value of the contract has not been disclosed by either party, an earlier government notice published in April 2024 indicated the project could be worth approximately £35m ($47m).
The intended timeline for the NGCM contract runs from October 2025 until October 2032.
TKMS ATLAS UK expects the project to sustain approximately 80 jobs within the UK.
TKMS ATLAS UK managing director Dr Antoni Mazur said: “This contract reflects our longstanding role as the UK’s trusted provider of torpedo countermeasure research and development, and a trusted partner of innovation in the underwater battlespace.
“NGCM will deliver a world-class capability that strengthens the underwater defence of the UK’s submarine fleet, while also creating opportunities for future growth and export.”
Looking forward, the NGCM programme will prioritise delivery, integration, and phased capability improvements to maintain the Royal Navy’s ability to address evolving underwater threats throughout the operational life of its submarine fleet.
