Thales has strengthened its collaboration with the Italian Navy by inaugurating a new service centre at the Taranto Naval Base, aimed at maintaining sonar systems and other equipment on naval vessels.
This facility is designed to expedite maintenance processes, significantly reducing intervention times for Thales systems by 50%.
According to the company, highly trained local experts and technicians will be stationed at the centre, enabling swift resolution of technical issues and facilitating hands-on training for Navy personnel. This initiative aims to transfer specialised skills directly within operational environments.
The partnership between Thales and the Italian Navy has been further reinforced through two key multiyear maintenance contracts. The first contract focuses on maintaining the Integrated Sonar Suite and electronic warfare solutions on FREMM-class frigates.
Through this agreement, Thales is expected to provide comprehensive support under the broader Through Life Sustainment Management programme. Additionally, in collaboration with Leonardo, Thales has secured an 18-month operational support contract for sonar systems on Gaeta-class minehunters.
The establishment of the Taranto service centre aligns with Thales’ strategy of localising technical expertise to meet the specific needs of Italy’s defence sector.
By placing skilled personnel directly at major naval arsenals, Thales ensures that critical technical resources are available where they are most needed.
Thales Italia CEO and country director Donato Amoroso said: “We are extremely proud to work alongside the Italian Navy, helping to deliver faster and more efficient support services. We thank the Italian Navy for granting access to the seafront facility at Taranto Arsenal, where our Italian technical team operates.
“This hub enables us to carry out all levels of maintenance, from straightforward component replacements to the most complex tasks. With this initiative, we underscore our strong commitment and the value of Italian know-how in service of Italian Defence.”
Earlier this week, Thales introduced its Sonar 76Nano system in the UK. This advanced acoustic detection technology is intended to enhance maritime security for the UK, Nato, and allied nations.
Developed in nearly ten months, Sonar 76Nano employs AI for detection and features modular deployment options suitable for integration across various naval platforms. The system is capable of submarine detection, seabed mapping, threat data collection, and secure underwater communication.
