MJTE and SYLENA MK2 to be Integrated
Leonardo and Lacroix have inked a strategic agreement to develop and integrate solutions for the naval countermeasures market, Leonardo announced on 17 November.
The collaboration, which will look towards new technologies as well as new business opportunities, initially provides for the integration of Lacroix’s SYLENA Mk2 decoy launching system (DLS) with Leonardo’s Mobile Jammer Target Emulator (MJTE) anti-torpedo countermeasures.
The latest-generation MJTE can emulate the signature and acoustics of its host platform and emit a powerful jamming signal to create convincing false targets, allowing the targeted vessel to perform an effective evasive manoeuvre. Compared to existing solutions on the market, MJTE packs a number of protective techniques into a low-cost unit, offering effective short-range performance. It forms part of Leonardo’s new anti-torpedo suite, which includes the BLACK SNAKE towed sonar, the new OTO DLS 20 and a software package, which calculates optimum release timing for countermeasures, as well as escape routes for the host vessel.
The new agreement will expand the accessible market for both MJTE and SYLENA MK2. The compact, lightweight form factor of the SYLENA MK2 makes it suitable for small and medium-sized vessels, expanding the potential user base for the MJTE. Meanwhile, the new capabilities brought by MJTE will improve utility of SYLENA MK2.
“This agreement reaffirms Leonardo’s ability to interpret, respond to and often anticipate market needs. There is clear synergy in this partnership with Lacroix, as together we can offer a sophisticated anti-submarine countermeasure solution, even for platforms with limited space. These require compact and lightweight launch systems, which can simultaneously deliver anti-air warfare and anti-submarine capabilities,” commented Andrea Padella, Head of Defence Systems for Leonardo Electronics.
SYLENA MK2 is the first in-service static anti-missile system in the world operating both corner reflectors (SEALEM) and anti-torpedo countermeasures, maximizing vessel protection with a highly reliable system at low operating costs. The fact that it fires only mortars, with no pneumatic constraints, and features a small deck footprint and low recoil force, allows for reduced acquisition and integration costs. The system has already been installed or retrofitted to the vessels of several navies.
“Following the work we have undertaken with Leonardo to integrate SYLENA within their ATHENA-C combat management system as part of ongoing contracts, this collaboration is a natural next step in the development of joint solutions. Leonardo is a major player in the European industrial and technological defence base, and this partnership proves the maturity of our solutions and the unmatched modularity and versatility of our range of systems,” explained Lacroix Défense COO, François Moulinier.
