The Next Generation Countermeasure programme forms part of the Royal Navy’s wider Underwater Defensive Aids Suite. It will provide protection for both current and future submarine classes against evolving underwater threats.
TKMS ATLAS UK will use a spiral development model that allows the system to be upgraded in stages after its initial delivery. The approach is intended to keep the equipment relevant throughout the service lives of the submarines carrying it.
The company will draw on its experience in hydro-acoustics, sonar, underwater communications, sensor engineering and systems integration. It will also apply research conducted through its established torpedo countermeasure business in the UK.
“We are extremely proud to have been selected to deliver the Next Generation Countermeasure capability for the Royal Navy,” said Dr Antoni Mazur, managing director of TKMS ATLAS UK. “This contract reflects our longstanding role as the UK’s trusted provider of torpedo countermeasure research and development, and a trusted partner of innovation in the underwater battlespace.”
“NGCM will deliver a world-class capability that strengthens the underwater defence of the UK’s submarine fleet, while also creating opportunities for future growth and export,” Mazur said. The programme will now focus on delivery, integration and progressive capability improvements.
Babcock International will support TKMS ATLAS UK with countermeasure launcher technology and submarine integration expertise. The company also provides through-life support for the UK submarine fleet.
The partners said their design would support platform availability while allowing future upgrades to be incorporated. The companies have conducted more than three years of joint research and development ahead of the contract award.
“Having a world-class underwater countermeasure solution that will help to protect our national interests is a real driver for us all,” said Phil Craig, managing director of marine programmes at Babcock. “Babcock is pleased to be partnering with TKMS ATLAS UK, bringing together our complementary skills and expertise to deliver the most capable NGCM solution for the Royal Navy.”
“I wish to congratulate TKMS ATLAS UK on winning the Next Generation Countermeasure (NGCM) contract and look forward to working closely with them as we deliver this essential capability for the UK submarine fleet,” said Chris Bamforth, head of submarine combat systems at the Ministry of Defence. The award expands domestic work on underwater defence and countermeasure technology.
TKMS ATLAS UK said the programme would strengthen sovereign UK defence capability and contribute to security in the North Atlantic. Its adaptable design is intended to allow the Royal Navy to respond to new underwater threats over the operational life of its submarine fleet.
