UK-based defence and security electronics system specialist SEA has secured a contract to supply its torpedo launcher system (TLS) to an undisclosed South American customer.
Under the contract, SEA will supply its TLS for the customer’s multi-ship programme.
The TLS is operational with the UK Royal Navy for over 30 years.
Other major international navies, as well as North America and South-East Asia, also operate the system.
It is designed to allow operators to configure a ship’s firing mechanism to accommodate any Nato standard lightweight torpedo.
The modular and flexible design enables the launcher to be easily upgradable throughout its service life.
It also ensures a reduction of the risk of capability obsolescence based on ammunition supply.
SEA managing director Richard Flitton said: “This contract award represents a major step in our ambition to share the best of the industry’s technology with navies across the globe.
“This development also highlights our presence in South America, which provides a hub to build on and support future naval requirements in the region.
“The flexibility of SEA’s weapon-agnostic Torpedo Launcher System futureproofs new vessels and provides navies with a choice of suppliers for ammunition, which enables greater flexibility and long-term value.
“We look forward to working closely with our partners across all corners of the world to meet the increasing demand for flexible and modular torpedo launcher capabilities.”
The torpedo launcher system can fire the US Mk 44, Mk 46 and Mk 54 torpedoes, UK Sting Ray, Italian A244S, French MU 90 and the Korean Blue Shark.
It can also be ‘configured to use other weapons on an individual basis’.
In September 2017, SEA won contract from South Korean company Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) to deliver its TLS for two frigates, which were being constructed for the Philippine Navy.
