The modules will allow sailors to detect, locate and classify undersea mines remotely, keeping personnel and platforms farther from threats. The system combines sonar, mission-management software and remotely operated vehicle technology to support the Navy’s “Find, Fix and Finish” approach to mine countermeasures.
“The ability to counter undersea mine threats remains fundamental to maritime security and naval mission success,” said Rob Geckle, CEO of Thales North America. “By advancing the Navy’s MCM capabilities, this program will help strengthen fleet readiness and support mission success in an increasingly dynamic operating environment.”
The award combines technology from Thales’ international portfolio with the U.S.-based subsidiary’s experience supplying integrated undersea warfare capabilities to the Navy. Thales said the program would support unmanned mine-countermeasures operations and help move more quickly from detecting a threat to taking action.
A multiview towed synthetic aperture sonar will provide high-resolution mine detection and imagery, with the aim of reducing false targets. AI-augmented automatic target recognition software will help operators process, classify, map and manage the data, shortening the search and classification process while improving confidence in the results.
“This program brings together the most advanced mine warfare technologies across the Thales portfolio, with AAC’s deep experience delivering integrated undersea warfare capability to the U.S. Navy,” said Mike Carnovale, president of Advanced Acoustic Concepts. “By integrating sonar, classification software and future remote neutralization capabilities into a single operational solution, we’re helping simplify mine hunting operations and accelerate the path from detection to action for both manned and unmanned surface vessel platforms.”
