Germany’s arms procurement agency has reached an agreement with ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) to supply HMS-12M minehunting sonars for the German Navy’s MJ332 minehunting vessels. This contract marks a significant milestone for both the local shipbuilder and the Naval operations, as the new sonar systems are designed to substantially enhance the vessels’ capabilities in detecting and classifying naval mines, particularly in challenging environmental and seabed conditions.
The integration of these advanced sonar systems will take place during the scheduled maintenance periods of the vessels, a strategic decision aimed at minimizing disruption to fleet operations while ensuring that the Navy maintains its operational readiness. This approach will allow the German Navy to continue its critical missions without compromising on equipment upgrades.
Michael Ozegowski, Executive Vice President of the ATLAS ELEKTRONIK segment at TKMS, highlighted the significance of this contract, stating that the order is the largest for the HMS-12M to date. He emphasized the enhanced detection and classification probabilities that the modern sensor technology will bring to the Navy’s operations. Ozegowski also expressed appreciation for the trust that customers place in their technology and the support provided throughout the service life of the systems.
The HMS-12M sonar is a hull-mounted, tri-frequency system that offers superior resolution and an extended detection range, crucial for effective mine countermeasure operations. This includes activities such as minehunting, obstacle avoidance, and route surveying. Designed to utilize multiple frequencies, the sonar excels in precise detection and classification, proving highly effective at identifying various types of mines, including bottom, moored, and partially buried mines.
Furthermore, the sonar’s stabilized antenna facilitates continuous tracking of detected objects, maintaining reliable performance even in challenging sea states, up to a level of 5. This capability is essential for conducting safe and efficient maritime operations in diverse conditions, reinforcing the German Navy’s mission readiness.
