Curtiss-Wright and GeoSpectrum to develop new sonar system for smaller surface ships

Curtiss-Wright’s defence solutions division business unit Indal has partnered with GeoSpectrum Technologies to develop a new compact and lightweight sonar system for smaller surface ship and unmanned surface vehicle (USV) markets.

The new towed reelable active passive sonar (TRAPS) system will offer enhanced antisubmarine warfare (ASW) to the undersea warfare segment.

Claimed to be the first towed active / passive sonar system, the TRAPS will allow smaller navies to carry out ASW operations of frigates, corvettes, coastal patrol vessels and ships.

A vertical active source will be combined with passive towed array to be handled in-line on a lightweight winch system.

Curtiss-Wright’s Defense Solutions division general manager and senior vice-president Lynn Bamford said: "Curtiss-Wright is excited to be working with GeoSpectrum Technologies to develop this innovative new high-performance ASW system.

"The unprecedented weight and size reduction provided by the TRAPS system demonstrates Curtiss-Wright’s leadership in providing innovative shipboard handling solutions."

The TRAPS system can be used in a wide range of critical applications, including submarine detection for smaller surface combatants, in a containerised package that can be deployed on both existing vessels and new builds.

It can also be used as a permanently installed ASW system for new ship construction, as well as being retrofitted on existing ships.

Last October, Curtiss-Wright’s defence solutions division launched a new single operator shipboard helicopter handling system (HHS), designed specifically to address the size and weight limits of smaller ships.

The new Indal manual aircraft straighten and traverse (MAST) system is track-based and controlled using a chest pack-mounted portable control unit worn by the operator while working alongside the aircraft.

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Image: Curtiss-Wright has collaborated with GeoSpectrum to develop new lightweight sonar system. Photo: courtesy of Curtiss-Wright.