The German Federal Office of Defence Technology and Procurement (BWB) has awarded a contract to Atlas Elektronik to deliver diver detection sonar (DDS) systems for installation on the German Navy’s Type F125-class frigates.
Under the contract, Atlas will supply four Cerberus Mod2 portable DDS systems for use on four Type F125-class frigates, as well as an additional system for training purposes.
Developed to meet relevant national and international military standards (BV and MIL), the Cerberus Mod2 system has been designed to detect and classify underwater threats, including divers, swimmers, autonomous underwater vehicles (AUV) or swimmer delivery vehicles (SDV), while protecting military vessels.
The DDS, once deployed onboard the host ship, generates and displays visual and acoustic alerts to warn against targets approaching in the water on a sea chart.
The low weight and compact construction of the Cerberus Mod2 system allows it to be deployed easily and can be operated completely independent from other ship systems.
Atlas Elektronik UK surface ships division head James Young said that the contract would allow the firm to provide an important security system for the German Navy.
Capable of operating remotely from the ship’s bridge, as well as from a processing and display unit below deck, the system can be used for both portable and shipborne applications, while its components can be carried by one person.
The DDS also supports the detection of threats on wide expanses by positioning several sonars at suitable locations in harbours, while protecting large numbers of vessels.
The German Navy is scheduled to receive the first system before the end of this year.
