STOCKHOLM, Sweden, March 19, 2002 (PRIMEZONE) -- Dutch and Belgian navies choose Remotely-Operated Vehicle (ROV) from Saab Bofors Dynamics for mine-hunting. The order, which is valued at approximately MSEK 200, includes further development of the existing Double Eagle MkII system for increased performance. The order also includes the integration of an advanced MCM sonar from Thales Underwater Systems.
"We are very happy about this order," said Mikael Grodzinsky, president of Saab Bofors Underwater Systems in Motala. "These are the sixth and seventh countries that have chosen our Double Eagle system. It shows that we have a competitive product on the market, and one with major potential for additional orders."
Saab Bofors Dynamics Underwater Systems business unit in Motala has received an order for the Double Eagle MkIII ROV system from the French company Thales Underwater Systems. The ROV system is part of an "Integrated Mine Countermeasure System" (IMCMS) for delivery to the Dutch and Belgian navies. IMCMS is a joint French/German project involving two companies, Thales Underwater Systems (main subcontractor) and STN Atlas Elektronik GmbH (prime contractor). The systems, which are also known as "Self-Propelled Variable Depth Sonar" (SPVDS), will be used on board Dutch MCM vessels of the Alkmaar Class and Belgian vessels of the Flower Class. The systems are to be commissioned into operational service on an ongoing basis from 2004 to 2008.
The SPVDS system is used to detect and classify sea mines. The vehicle is powered and controlled via a cable, and can be deployed several hundred meters ahead of the mine-hunting vessel, thus optimizing the safety of the vessel and its crew.
Saab Bofors Underwater Systems has had good cooperation with Thales Underwater Systems in the past. A similar contract for the Double Eagle MkII ROV system was signed for the French navy in 2000.
Saab is one of the world's leading high-technology companies, with its main operations focusing on defence, aviation and space. The group covers a broad spectrum of competence and capabilities in systems integration.
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