Thales is set to bolster the French Navy’s capabilities in tracking underwater threats by supplying a significant number of SonoFlash sonobuoys.
The contract, whose value was not disclosed, was awarded by the French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA).
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Expected to enhance France’s strategic capabilities in anti-submarine warfare, these sonobuoys are produced in collaboration with the local SMEs such as TELERAD, SelhaGroup and Realmeca.
The modernised Atlantique 2 maritime patrol aircraft and NH90 Caiman tactical transport helicopters of the French Navy are set to be the initial operators of the sonobuoy.
These sonar devices are unique in their dual-functionality, providing both active and passive detection technologies. They incorporate a potent low-frequency sound source for active sonar pings and a highly directional receiver for passive listening.
When used in conjunction with the FLASH dipping sonar system, the SonoFlash sonobuoys extend the detection range for aircraft, enhancing their ability to locate submarines and react swiftly to any changes in the submarine’s movements.
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By GlobalDataThe advanced communication features of the SonoFlash ensure that data captured by the buoys can be shared with all participating naval vessels, aircraft, and land-based acoustic analysis centres that have the necessary equipment to process sonobuoy data.
This technology is also anticipated to be accessible for global markets, with compatibility across a broad range of modern maritime patrol aircraft and helicopters.
Thales Underwater Systems activities vice-president Sébastien Guérémy said: “Through its SonoFlash sonobuoy and the CAPTAS and FLASH sonars, Thales is proud to contribute to the development of the French anti-submarine warfare sector.
“The excellence of Thales’s offerings solutions in this field is recognised worldwide and is being put to the service of the French Navy in a context of renewed tensions at sea.”
The DGA awarded Thales the contract for the development, qualification, and production of the SonoFlash sonobuoys in March 2021, following their initial reveal at the Euronaval show in October 2018.
