Netherlands selects Optics11 to deliver ‘ASW in a box'
Optics11 will develop a containerised version of its OptiArray passive towed array sonar under the Royal Netherlands Navy's Anti-Submarine Warfare In A Box programme. (Optics11)
Dutch small/medium enterprise (SME) Optics11 has been funded by the Netherlands Ministry of Defence (MoD) to develop a containerised version of its OptiArray passive towed array sonar, suitable for rapid deployment on a wide range of vessels of opportunity.
Announcing the order from the MoD's Materiel and IT Command on 29 July, the company said that the procurement of an undisclosed number of operational systems had been made under the umbrella of the Royal Netherlands Navy's (RNLN's) Anti-Submarine Warfare In A Box (ASWINABO) programme. ASWINABO is intended to strengthen RNLN readiness, particulary in protecting critical undersea infrastrucure (CUI).
Optics11 has developed OptiArray as a reelable, thin-line array using highly sensitive optical-fibre sensors to measure acoustic signals. The containerised OptiArray systems being developed as part of the ASWINABO initiative are intended to be portable across different vessels of opportunity, allowing the RNLN to cost-effectively add an ASW surveillance capability to non-specialist surface ships (both manned and unmanned). Autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) are seen as a growing threat to CUI.
“Investment in manufacturing readiness, supply chain resilience and production infrastructure will also help mature technologies supporting future programmes, while strengthening the Netherlands' ability to rapidly field advanced underwater sensing capabilities as operational requirements continue to evolve,” said Optics11.
For more, please see: Optics11 signs agreement with Thales on fibre-optic towed array for RNLN Orka submarines
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