HENSOLDT and Rafael Team Up for Advanced Naval Electronic Countermeasures
HENSOLDT, a leading European defence corporation, has partnered with Israeli company Rafael Advanced Defense Systems to enhance electronic countermeasures for Germany’s naval vessels. Announced on 27 November, this collaboration focuses on integrating the Digital Shark ECM and C-GEM decoy systems, designed to neutralize radar-guided threats.
In a significant technological stride, HENSOLDT is also developing “Kalaetron Attack,” a fully digital jamming system for naval use. Tested in various environments, this system has proven effective against air defense radars, bolstering the German Armed Forces’ self-protection and signal intelligence systems.
Roland Caster, head of HENSOLDT’s airborne electronic warfare, highlighted the necessity of this technology in countering threats to naval vessels. The “Kalaetron Attack” utilizes a digital broadband sensor, artificial intelligence, and an electronically controllable jammer for rapid and accurate threat response.
Earlier, HENSOLDT had secured a €10 million contract to supply secondary radars and test equipment to Israel Aerospace Industries’ subsidiary ELTA Systems. These radars adhere to the latest Mode 5 NATO standard and are set for integration into both civil and military air defense systems. HENSOLDT is also tasked with upgrading the IFF systems of the German, French, and UK armed forces to this standard.
Babcock Wins Over £100 Million in Contracts for UK’s Future Nuclear Submarines
Babcock has secured two substantial contracts, together valued at over £100 million, to contribute to the UK’s upcoming nuclear deterrent, the Dreadnought Class submarines. The Ministry of Defence has awarded the first contract, worth £66 million, for Babcock to lend its expertise in servicing submarines. This 4.5-year contract involves Babcock providing technical support, engineering guidance, and maintenance know-how to the Ministry of Defence. It’s a significant boost for the economy, expected to maintain 150 jobs in Bristol and other key locations like Devonport, Clyde, Barrow in Furness, Leicester, and Warrington.
Additionally, Babcock has secured another contract from BAE Systems, valued at £55 million. This contract involves the development of Weapon Handling and Launch System (WHLS) and Submerged Signal Ejector equipment for the second to fourth boats of the Dreadnought Class. This endeavor will further support around 100 jobs across the UK, fostering collaboration between Babcock, BAE Systems, and the MOD to ensure timely delivery of the Dreadnought Class.
The Dreadnought Class project aims to design, develop, and manufacture four new ballistic missile submarines, poised to be the largest ever operated by the Royal Navy. James Cartlidge, Minister for Defence Procurement, highlighted the crucial role of the British industry in national and allied defense, emphasizing his commitment to backing UK firms that enhance national security and economic prosperity.
David Lockwood, CEO of Babcock, expressed the significance of their contribution, especially in the early stages of the program, to enhance the UK’s defense capabilities. The new Dreadnought Class submarines, exceeding 150 meters in length and housing a crew of 130, will feature innovative lighting to mimic natural day and night cycles. They will also be the first Royal Navy submarines with separate quarters for female crew members and will include modern gym facilities, such as exercise bikes, rowers, weights, benches, a running machine, and a cross trainer.
Cubic Defence UK Awarded £489K MOD Contract for Light Gun Simulation
Cubic Defence UK (CDUK), a subsidiary of the global Cubic Corporation, has been awarded a two-year contract worth £489K by the UK Ministry of Defence’s Soldier, Training & Special Projects (STSP) – Training & Simulation Systems Portfolio (TSSP). The contract entails providing an interim 105mm Light Gun Simulation System using CDUK’s “Blueshell” solution.
This interim solution is critical for bridging a capability gap in the UK Armed Forces’ training programs at the Royal School of Artillery (RSA), ensuring continuity in training until the new Interim Indirect Direct Fires Simulation (IIDFS) 105 Light Gun solution is operational in 2025.
CDUK’s “Blueshell” is the only viable option to address this gap in a timely manner and has already met all safety requirements for immediate deployment. The awarding of this contract, bypassing standard publication procedures, is considered lawful due to the urgent technical necessity and CDUK’s unique ability to deliver the required solution swiftly.
Cubic Defence UK is renowned for its comprehensive range of defence and training solutions, including Live, Virtual, and Constructive (LVC) training, combat training systems, cyber technologies, and tracking solutions for various applications. Their proven track record and commitment to innovation make them a trusted provider in the defence sector.
That’s it folks! Have a nice weekend, look forward to updating you next week.