Destined to Replace Type 2050

HMS PORTLAND has become the first ship to be fitted with Ultra’s next-generation Hull-Mounted Sonar Type 2150 as part of a wider refit to the Royal Navy’s (RN) frigates.

The sonar, designed by Ultra Electronics Command & Sonar Systems, will replace the legacy Sonar Type 2050, which has been in RN service since the 1990s. The new sonar incorporates a state-of-the-art user interface to improve operator effectiveness and usability. Digital control of the outboard array minimises interference, reducing ship cabling, maximising reliability and extending array maintenance intervals to at least five years. The sonar will be fitted to eight RN Type 23 frigates. Ultra has also been contracted to supply this sonar to the first three RN Type 26 frigates currently under construction.

As part of its SEA SEARCHER sonar range, Ultra has also developed two smaller and lighter weight variants of the Type 2150, for naval vessels up to 1,000 and 2,000t respectively. With state-of-the art in-board processing and innovative user displays, this family of sonar systems provides a potent ASW capability for patrol vessels, frigates and other vessels worldwide.

Managing Director Mike Williams commented “Reaching this significant milestone has been key for Ultra. With a number of significant changes from the Sonar 2050 system it replaces, the project team has designed and developed a system that simplifies user operability and significantly reduces life cycle costs and in-board footprint.”