Ultra Maritime to provide torpedo defense systems for Australia’s Hunter-class frigates

Defense solutions provider Ultra Maritime has been selected to provide next-generation torpedo defense capabilities for the Royal Australian Navy’s (RAN) Hunter-class frigate program.

The Hunter class will deploy Ultra Maritime’s surface ship torpedo defense (SSTD). Incorporating a sonar and two methods of decoy, the SSTD system uses acoustic signatures to provide advice on the most effective tactics—such as zig-zags or hard turns—to defeat a detected torpedo.

The contract, which was awarded by BAE Systems Maritime Australia, will provide the RAN with a full “sense to effect” capability to keep ships and crews safe from torpedo threats.

Ultra Maritime previously announced that its hull mounted sonar (HMS) has also been selected for the Hunter class. Both systems are included in the baseline Global Combat Ship anti-submarine warfare (ASW) design, meaning the RAN will share commonality with the UK, Canada, Norway, plus other countries that will use this hull form.

“The Hunter class frigates are a critical capability for protecting Australian shores and safeguarding the accessibility of ship lanes and undersea cables that our nation depends on,” Andy Coxall, Delivery Director – Acquisition, BAE Systems Maritime Australia, said.

“Ultra Maritime is proud to provide the Royal Australian Navy with a full sense to effect capability that keeps ships and crews safe from the torpedo threats. This award adds to an expanding set of manned and unmanned vessels benefiting from Ultra Maritime’s pioneering anti-submarine warfare technologies,” Jonathan Sadleir, Vice President and General Manager of Ultra Maritime’s Australia business, stated.

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