ERAPSCO JV wins $70.3m sonobuoy subcontracts from US Navy

The US Navy has awarded two subcontracts worth a combined $70.3m to the ERAPSCO joint venture (JV) for the production of sonobuoys.

ERAPSCO is a JV between Ultra Electronics and Sparton’s Engineered Components and Products (ECP) division.

Sonobuoys are tactical sonar systems that are deployed to transmit submarine activity in anti-submarine warfare scenarios.

The latest award represents a Government Fiscal Year 2018 (GFY18) ERAPSCO indefinite delivery / indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract release for the delivery of sonobuoys under the JV’s current five-year deal.

Ultra Electronics executive chairman Douglas Caster said: “I am pleased that we have secured this important contract that will continue to provide critical sensor capabilities to the US Navy.

“This contract is a reflection of the increased focus on anti-submarine warfare and the US Navy’s commitment to providing key technology for this important mission.”

The agreement will see the JV provide production subcontracts valued at $32m and $38.3m to Ultra Electronics USSI and Sparton De Leon Springs respectively.

Sparton interim president and chief executive officer Joe Hartnett said: “We are proud to contribute to the defence of our great nation and allies throughout the world.

“We are committed to delivering high-quality products to support that mission.”

The production of the sonobuoys is expected to be completed by March 2020 and will be carried out at Ultra Electronics USSI’s facility in Columbia City, Indiana, as well as Sparton’s site in De Leon Springs, Florida.

The ERAPSCO JV previously secured $28.4m worth of subcontracts for the supply of sonobuoys for the US Navy in March.