06 January 2021

Work continues on Chilean Type 23 frigate upgrade programme

by Richard Scott

Lockheed Martin Canada is continuing work on the Armada de Chile’s Type 23 upgrade programme, having earlier this year completed remote installation of CMS 330 combat management system software on Almirante Cochrane , the first of the three ex-UK Royal Navy frigates to be modernised.

The TRS-4D radar antenna being installed on Almirante Lynch. (Lockheed Martin Canada)

Under a contract awarded in February 2017, Lockheed Martin Canada is taking responsibility as prime contractor and combat systems integrator for the Chilean Type 23 upgrade programme. The modernisation is centred on the introduction of the company’s proprietary CMS 330 combat management system, the Hensoldt TRS-4D G-band active electronically scanned array surveillance and target acquisition radar (rotating variant), and the MBDA Sea Ceptor local-area anti-air missile system.

Other new equipment includes an IBM multi-link processor, a Hensoldt MSSR 2000I IFF interrogator/ LTR400DNG IFF transponder, and an OSI Maritime Systems navigation system. Lockheed Martin Canada has also contracted with Chilean subcontractor DTS for the update of the ESM-RD-170 electronic support measures system.

The upgrades are being implemented by Lockheed Martin Canada in conjunction with local contractors ASMAR Shipyards, which is implementing the upgrade in its Talcahuano yard, and DESA, which has developed the MAITEN-4.5/CH fire control system. In mid-2020, an additional contract was signed with local combat systems house SISDEF.

Almirante Cochrane

Lockheed Martin Canada is continuing work on the Armada de Chile’s Type 23 upgrade programme, having...

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