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Modernized Navigation Systems on French Submarines

By on Thursday, November 12th, 2009

French naval shipyards DCNS, acting on behalf of the fleet support department in the French navy, has placed an order with Sagem (Safran group), on behalf of the French navy, for a new series of Sigma 40XP inertial navigation that will be used to modernize France’s SNA class nuclear attack submarines.

The French navy’s decision was largely based on the performance of the Sigma 40XP, demonstrated during operational trials at sea, and during long operational patrols by the Saphir nuclear attack submarine, which is fitted with one of these navigation systems.

Two inertial navigation units will be integrated in each submarine’s combat system. The Sigma 40XP calls on Sagem’s state-of-the-art technologies, including very-high-performance laser gyros and advanced digital filtering techniques. The Sigma 40XP is designed for use even in extreme operating environments.

The Sigma 40XP capitalizes on Sagem’s extensive experience in high-precision navigation solutions. Sagem’s navigation systems are used on more than 300 ships deployed by 31 navies worldwide, including surface vessels and submarines with nuclear, air-independent and conventional propulsion.

Sagem also supplies the optronic, electronic warfare and radar mast system on the French navy’s nuclear attack submarines, intended for use in surface actions.

Sagem is a high-tech company in the SAFRAN Group. It is a world or European leader in solutions and services in optronics, avionics, electronics and critical software for the civilian and military markets. Sagem is the European No. 1 and worldwide No.3 in INSs for aeronautic, naval and land applications. It is also the worldwide No.1 in helicopter flight controls and the European No.1 in optronic and tactical UAV systems. Present across the globe via the SAFRAN Group’s international network, Sagem and its subsidiaries employ 6000 people in Europe, South East Asia and North America.

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