Defence Industry Europe’s Post

Spain's S-80 Plus Submarine Emerges as Top Choice to Replace Indian Kilo-Class A potential replacement for the Indian Navy's aging fleet of Kilo-class submarines has emerged. An unnamed Navy official revealed that the Spanish-designed S-80 Plus class submarine is a strong contender to fulfill this need. The Kilo-class submarines, initially acquired by India in the 1980s, have been a backbone of the country's maritime defense capabilities for many years. While extensive maintenance has kept them operational, their time is drawing to a close, and the Navy is actively seeking replacements. The Project-75I tender aims to induct six new stealth submarines as a long-term replacement. The S-80 Plus offers several compelling advantages for the Indian Navy. Its larger submerged displacement compared to competitors like the German U-214 allows it to carry more fuel and undertake extended missions – vital for patrolling India's expansive maritime borders. The Kilo-class submarines also possess a similar submerged displacement. Sources indicate the S-80 Plus may also be more cost-effective than comparable submarines. While exact pricing is confidential, industry speculation suggests it could be a more budget-friendly choice than the U-214. India has an established relationship with German submarine manufacturer TKMS, having acquired T-209 submarines in the past. However, the S-80 Plus represents a new generation of submarines while potentially providing superior capabilities. Interestingly, TKMS lost out on Project-75 to a French-Spanish consortium because their Scorpène-class submarines were much less expensive than German offerings. Additionally, India's current operation of Scorpène-class submarines (a Franco-Spanish design) gives the S-80 Plus an extra edge. Existing familiarity with Navantia, one of the shipyards responsible for the S-80 Plus, may streamline potential procurement and logistical processes. Disclaimer: It is important to note that this report is based on statements from an unnamed source and details of submarine procurements are often shrouded in secrecy.

This trend of autonomous platforms (land, air, sea and undersea) is really catching on....

Japan continues to strengthen its deterrence capabilities with vertical launch missile systems being built in Japan under license from Lockheed Martin and installed from the fiscal year starting April 1 on Japan-designed and built Mogami frigates. All future frigates will include VLS. Japan will also significantly upgrade its Mogami class frigates for new ones ordered from 2024 onward. "The Japanese Defense Ministry said the new-class FFM will be fitted with longer-range missiles, enhanced anti-submarine capabilities, and improved capabilities for various maritime operations. With better anti-aircraft and search capabilities, the new FFM may become closer to an FFG (missile frigate)."

The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) marked a significant milestone with the homecoming ceremony of diesel-electric/AIP attack submarine RSS Invincible at Changi Naval Base. The event, graced by Fleet Commander RADM Kwan Hon Chuong, along with senior RSN officers and submariners from the 7th Flotilla, celebrated the arrival of the lead vessel of the Invincible-class submarines. Launched on 18 February 2019 in Kiel, Germany, RSS Invincible represents the cutting-edge of submarine technology tailored specifically to meet the operational needs of the RSN. The Invincible-class submarines, classified as Type 218SG, are a product of collaboration between the RSN and ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), a renowned German naval conglomerate. These submarines are set to replace Singapore’s aging Challenger-class and Archer-class vessels, providing enhanced underwater capabilities for the future. The Invincible-class submarines, formally classified as the Type 218SG submarines, has a length of 70 metres (229 ft 8 in) and a beam of 6.3 metres (20 ft 8 in), with an overall displacement of about 2,000 t when surfaced and 2,200 t while submerged. It has an estimated speed of about 10 knots (19 km/h; 12 mph) while surfaced and 15 knots (28 km/h; 17 mph) while submerged. The design is believed to be based on the Type 214 export-centric submarine, with design inferences from the Type 212 submarine—both of which were designed by TKMS. The design of the Type 218SG is also believed to have been influenced by the Type 216 submarine concept. They feature several capabilities, including a substantial level of automation, a significant payload capacity, enhanced underwater endurance and superlative ergonomics. #military #defense #defence #militaryleak https://lnkd.in/gNUyEGDk

On April 6-7, Eckhard Uhrbrock, a contributor to Shipspotting, posted updates on the construction progress of  Singapore’s fourth submarine at the shipyard in Kiel, northern Germany, owned by ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS). The submarine’s hull construction appeared to be nearing completion. The  Singaporean government has ordered four diesel submarines from TKMS shipyard in Germany in two batches, with the first two ordered in 2013 followed by the remaining two in 2017. These Type 218SG submarines have a weight of 2,000 tons, a length of 70 meters, and a maximum submerged weight of 2,200 tons. Named RSS Inimitable, the fourth submarine follows the first submarine, RSS Invincible, the second, RSS Impeccable, and the third, RSS Illustrious. The Invincible-class submarines, formally classified as the Type 218SG submarines, is a class of conventionally-powered attack submarines, ordered by the  Republic of Singapore Singapore Navy (RSN) from German-based naval conglomerate ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS). The Type 218SG is an extensively-customised derivative of the export-oriented Type 214 submarine, with specific design characteristics drawn from Type 212 submarines. They feature several capabilities, including a substantial level of automation, a significant payload capacity, enhanced underwater endurance and superlative ergonomics.  Singapore’s Ministry of Defense (MINDEF) ordered a total of four Type 218SG submarines, as a replacement to the RSN’s existing Challenger-class and Archer-class submarines. #military #defense #defence #militaryleak #submarine #singapore https://lnkd.in/gXGRXdZG

The #SeabedWarfare Strategy of Ministère des Armées, released in 2022, did set out an ambitious roadmap in terms of procurement and initial operational effects to deliver. ⚓️ More than wo years later, the Marine Nationale 🇫🇷 is implementing this strategy to ☑️ address the challenges and the potential threats in the #deepsea and ☑️ develop adequate courses of action, down to 6000 meters deep, mainly in the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. 🔱 Naval News ⤵️

What is so special about Submarine Sonar Watch or Submarine Shark Watch? Submarine Sonar Watch, also known as the "Shark Watch", is a highly advanced sonar system developed by the Russian Navy for its submarines. It's considered one of the most advanced and powerful sonar systems in the world. Here are some of its impressive features: 1. Wide-area coverage: The Shark Watch can detect and track multiple targets simultaneously, including ships, submarines, and even aircraft, within a wide range of up to 500 kilometers (310 miles). 2. High-resolution imaging: The system uses advanced sonar technology to provide high-resolution images of the seafloor, allowing Russian submarines to detect and avoid underwater mines, wrecks, or other obstacles. 3. Target recognition: The Shark Watch can automatically identify and classify targets, including their size, speed, and course, making it easier for Russian submarines to detect and engage enemy vessels. 4. Advanced signal processing: The system's advanced signal processing algorithms allow it to reject background noise and interference, improving its accuracy and reducing false alarms. 5. Networked capability: The Shark Watch can be integrated with other Russian naval systems, such as radar and communication networks, to provide a comprehensive picture of the surrounding environment. The Shark Watch is considered a significant improvement over previous Russian submarine sonar systems, offering enhanced detection capabilities, improved target recognition, and increased situational awareness. Its advanced technology makes it a valuable asset for the Russian Navy, particularly in the context of modern naval warfare.

🛡️ Reinforcing Naval Defense: A Leap Beyond Kinetics. How I see it: The potential of Gallium Nitride is vast. Gallium Nitride technology elevates our defense capabilities. In this dynamic naval landscape, the US Navy is advancing its non-kinetic capabilities by integrating Gallium Nitride-based active electronically scanned arrays. In the dynamic landscape of naval defense, SEWIP Block 3 emerges as a revolutionary force, propelled by advanced Gallium Nitride technology. Leading the charge is the USS Pinckney, showcasing the cutting-edge AN/SLQ-32(V)7—an unequivocal testament to the pinnacle of defense upgrades. In the realm of airborne defense, Lockheed Martin's AN/ALQ-248 AOEW seizes the spotlight as a game-changer for MH-60S/R helicopters. Operating independently or harmoniously synchronized with SEWIP, it stands as a formidable force multiplier, heralding a new era in electronic warfare capabilities. Transitioning from air to sea, the USS Chung-Hoon and USS James E. Williams eagerly gear up for the transformative SEWIP Block 3, poised to amplify their electronic warfare prowess. The anticipation builds as the FQT-1B testing success propels us forward, with Lockheed Martin gearing up for AOEW LRIP deliveries in 2024. Excitement mounts as we approach 2026, a pivotal year for the US Navy's initial operational test and evaluation of these groundbreaking technologies. Northrop Grumman takes the lead in pioneering SEWIP Block 3, while Lockheed Martin, in tandem, soars with the AN/ALQ-248 AOEW system. This self-contained pod promises a new era of coordinated defense against the ever-looming threat of anti-ship missiles. Yet, industry commitment to naval defense goes beyond the known horizons. The LEED project assures extended EW capabilities. This endeavor aligns seamlessly with ONR's Long Endurance Airborne Platform project, fortifying our naval defenses and promising a secure future on the horizon. In 2026, the US Navy plans initial operational test and evaluation, marking a pivotal moment in naval defense evolution. As industry partners, we must join DoD and the Navy in shaping the future of naval defense. Let's collaborate to enhance our capabilities and ensure the security of our seas. Together, we can achieve greater milestones and safeguard maritime interests for generations to come. #DefenseTechnology #GalliumNitride #SEWIP #NavalInnovation #ElectronicWarfare #Honeywell #RockyResearch #DirectedEnergy #Navy #DOD

Daily Intelligence Insights - Feb 23, 2024 An insight on Saudi Assistant Defense Minister for Executive Affairs Khaled Al-Bayari’s proposals to improve the defenses of Saudi warships. These proposals are based on his meetings with U.S. and European advisors concerned with the security of the Red Sea on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference (MSC) on 16/2/2024. From Doha, the Qatari Ministry of Defense is in talks with the Pentagon to enhance the Qatari Emiri Navy (QEN) capabilities through the acquisition of advanced systems. In this regard, U.S. defense companies are in contact with officials at the Ministry to negotiate deals. Explore all our Notes & In-Depth Reports 🔗 → https://lnkd.in/eBHxsX-r The Qatari Ministry of Defense (MoD) is in talks with the Pentagon to enhance the Qatari Emiri Navy (QEN) capabilities through the acquisition of advanced systems, including counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) equipment. In this regard, U.S. defense companies are in contact with officials at the MoD to negotiate deals. The following note provides a comprehensive overview of the following aspects: - The systems the MoD is looking to procure - The purpose behind the procurement - The budget allocated for a deal - The U.S. defense companies involved in the talks - A notable offer from one of the companies 🔒 → https://lnkd.in/dupgi_rQ Saudi Assistant Defense Minister for Executive Affairs Khaled Al-Bayari met with several senior military and security U.S. and European advisors concerned with the security of the Red Sea. These meetings took place on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference (MSC) on 16/2/2024, where leaders expressed heightened concerns regarding the escalating threats posed by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) on warships. The following note provides a comprehensive overview of the following aspects: - Al-Bayari’s proposals to the Saudi MoD on improving the defenses of Saudi warships based on his meetings in Munich - The types of naval defense systems the MoD plans to procure - The solutions that Riyadh considers to counter suicide UUVs 🔒 → https://lnkd.in/dMThywKR

Drawing upon nearly three decades of experience in submarine operations, the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) has meticulously defined its requirements for the next generation of underwater vessels. The Type 218SG submarines are a direct reflection of this rigorous process, boasting a design optimized for Singapore's unique maritime environment. The Type 218SG design offers significant advantages beyond initial acquisition costs. The modular design allows for future upgrades and modifications, ensuring the submarines remain adaptable to evolving operational demands. Additionally, the emphasis on automation contributes to a more streamlined workforce, optimizing manpower requirements. Overall, the Type 218SG submarines represent a strategic acquisition for the RSN, reflecting their deep understanding of regional maritime challenges and a commitment to technological innovation. https://lnkd.in/gkDeszeg