Lockheed Martin and Systematic are negotiating to jointly develop an Electronic Warfare Support System (EWSS) in support of the Royal Danish Navy’s maritime helicopter (MHP).
Lockheed Martin Naval helicopter programmes director Tom Kane said his company was seeking assistance from Danish industry partners to support the Sikorsky-built MH-60R Seahawk multi-mission helicopters programme in Denmark.
"We have been working with Systematic on the details of providing the EWSS project as part of our industrial cooperation package for review and approval by the Danish Business Authority (DBA)," Kane said.
Integrated with the Lockheed-built electronic support measures (ESM) system, the MH-60R helicopter can scan electromagnetic environments to provide situational awareness and threat warning capabilities for troops.
Under the proposed EWSS, the ESM system will be integrated with electronic warfare and also launch associated HOT-BENCH verification facility to demonstrate EW data capability prior to its delivery.
The advanced maritime MH-60R Seahawk serves as a primary anti-submarine warfare anti-surface weapon system from frigates, destroyers, cruisers, and aircraft carriers in littoral zones.
Denmark needs the helicopters to boost its anti-submarine and surface warfare capabilities, as well as provide improved search-and-rescue and anti-ship surveillance operations.
In addition, the country requires Seahawks to carry out international commitments for with the US and other allies.
The Seahawks are also expected to strengthen Denmark’s homeland defence and protect critical infrastructure. Work on the project is likely to start after the contract has been awarded.
Other industry members of the Seahawk team include Sikorsky, General Electric, Raytheon and CAE.
Image: Sikorsky-built MH-60R Seahawk in flight off the coast of San Diego. Photo: courtesy of US Navy/Moat.
