- Thales and MHI signed a contract for the delivery of High Frequency Synthetic Aperture Sonar (HFSAS) SAMDIS to equip MHI’s OZZ-5 Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV).
- Through this contract, Thales contributes to Japan’s national security by introducing combat proven technology to domestic manufacturer.
Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force relies on Thales and MHI to equip itself with the latest generation of high-resolution synthetic aperture sonar that provides a high level of classification. The choice of Thales technologies, which have been extensively proven in service with navies around the world, provides the highest levels of protection available today.
In a changing international context, countries are strengthening the protection of their maritime approaches. At the same time, it is essential to limit human exposure to mines. With 50 years of expertise serving navies around the world, Thales develops technologies that enable the transition from conventional solutions, such as minehunters, to UAV-based solutions (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle).
Through this agreement, HFSAS will be deployed in MHI’s OZZ-5 UUV. With the combination of the Thales HFSAS with Japanese LFSAS (Low Frequency Synthetic Aperture Sonar) technology, the sonars will allow operators to detect suspected mines regardless of the varied or unvaried condition, accommodating today’s increasing demand for MMCM (Maritime Mine Counter Measures). Thales HFSAS provides AuDC (Automatic Detection and Classification) function, which relieves operators’ load to process the collected data.
This contract agreement is the starting point of a long-term program with Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force as end-user and potentially opens the door to export markets. The continuous and successful collaboration between Thales and MHI in Japan has been, once again, strengthened by the order of SAMDIS HFSAS to equip MHI’s OZZ-5 UUV. Working together with Thales, MHI is aiming to enter new markets in Japan’s allies by offering high-end technology to the most powerful navies. Thales’ anti-submarine warfare and maritime safety & security systems are currently in service with more than 50 navies.
Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global high technology leader investing in digital and “deep tech” innovations –connectivity, big data, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and quantum technology – to build a future we can all trust, which is vital to the development of our societies. The company provides solutions, services and products that help its customers –businesses, organisations and states – in the defence, aeronautics, space, transportation and digital identity and security markets to fulfil their critical missions, by placing humans at the heart of the decision-making process.
With 83,000 employees in 68 countries, Thales generated sales of €19 billion in 2019 (on a basis including Gemalto over 12 months).
Present in Japan since 1970, Thales works with over 500 suppliers ranging from large enterprises to SMEs. The Group serves Japanese needs in scientific, security and defense (Japanese government), aerospace, digital identity security solutions (various Japanese organizations, MNOs, banks, governmental or civil markets, etc), spatial, transportation and various industrial applications.
A strong portfolio of solutions and technologies enables Thales to meet customer and partner needs efficiently by supporting them in common projects. Key projects have enabled Thales in Japan to expand the business locally and to build a dynamic and skilled workforce.
With 148 employees in Japan, mainly in Tokyo, Thales’ will is to boost its local presence by partnering with local players, addressing worldwide needs and partnering with key industrial Japanese players.
