SAMDIS HFSAS for OZZ -5U UUV
Thales and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) are collaborating to deliver field-proven mine warfare solutions to the Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF).
The two companies have signed a contract covering the supply of the Thales SAMDIS high-frequency synthetic aperture radar (HFSAS) to equip MHI’s OZZ-5U unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV). The HFSAS will operate in conjunction with an existing Japanese low-frequency device to address the constantly evolving demands of mine countermeasures (MCM) operators. HFSAS provides AuDC automatic detection and classification (AuDC) functions, reducing operator workload.
The contract marks the beginning of a long-term programme with the JMSDF and potentially opens the door to export markets. Working together with Thales, MHI is aiming to enter new naval markets, leveraging Thales’ maritime footprint in over 50 navies.
“Equipping the OZZ-5 underwater vehicle with our high-frequency sonar evidences our strong relationship with MHI which started years ago with the development of the OZZ-X prototype. It materializes the continuation of the ongoing Japan/ France bilateral long-term cooperation,” commented Cyrille Dupont, President and CEO of Thales Japan.
“This contract demonstrates Thales’ capability to tailor its offerings to any type of vehicle and navy requirement and will pave the way for future achievements with our MHI partner,” added Alexis Morel, VP underwater activities for Thales.