HMS Trenchant, the Royal Navy’s (RN’s) most capable and up-to-date Trafalgar-class nuclear-powered hunter-killer submarine (SSN), has been ceremonially welcomed back into the operational fleet this month with upgraded state-of-the-art sonar from Thales.
Sonar 2076 Stage 5 represents a world-class sonar capability for the Royal Navy…”
As part of a major refit programme that started in late 2009, the submarine has been fitted with Thales’s world-class Sonar 2076 Stage 5 system, and additional upgrades such as Tomahawk cruise missile capability. A ceremony at Devonport marked the boat’s return to service.
Previously fitted with 2076 Stage 4, the upgrade to the new Stage 5 system ensures that Sonar 2076 retains its reputation as the world’s most advanced, fully integrated, passive/active search and attack sonar suite.
Fleet submarines (Trafalgar and Astute class) combine qualities of stealth, endurance and flexibility. Operating on a global basis, these high-speed boats are used by the RN for high-intensity missile strikes, anti-submarine and surface unit warfare, surveillance, and inshore and beach reconnaissance.
Thales UK was awarded a contract to upgrade three additional Trafalgar-class and three Astute-class submarines with the Stage 5 system by BAE Systems in February 2010. Once all the work is completed, 2076 Stage 5 will be fully deployed across the RN’s SSN fleet.
The Stage 5 inboard replacement programme is the latest in a series of developments to improve the capability, efficiency and through-life cost of the sonar system. The upgrade also delivers an open architecture that allows a high degree of commonality with the Astute and Vanguard-class replacement (Successor) submarines, and supports the MoD’s vision for the evolution of a common sonar and combat system across the RN submarine flotilla.
Phil Naybour, head of Thales UK’s naval business, says: “We welcome the news that HMS Trenchant has re-entered operational service. Sonar 2076 Stage 5 represents a world-class sonar capability for the Royal Navy and we look forward to working closely with our partners to upgrade the remaining Trafalgar- and Astute-class submarines.”
Thales is a global technology leader for the defence & security and the aerospace & transport markets. In 2010 the company generated revenues of £11.2 billion (EUR 13.1 billion), with 68,000 employees in 50 countries. With its 22,500 engineers and researchers, Thales has a unique capability to design, develop and deploy equipment, systems and services that meet the most complex security requirements. Thales has an exceptional international footprint, with operations around the world working with customers as local partners.
Thales UK employs 8,000 staff based at 35 locations. In 2010 Thales UK’s revenues were around £1.5 billion.
