Lacroix's new Artissoum submarine signalling devices on display at Euronaval 2024. (Janes/Kate Tringham)
French countermeasures and pyrotechnics group Lacroix Defense showcased its new family of submarine signalling devices, named Artissoum, at the Euronaval 2024 exhibition, running from 4 to 7 November in Paris.
Currently under development, the Artissoum range is intended to replace the company's Bombette family of pyrotechnic signals and will incorporate a number of improvements to the existing submarine signalling device to enhance its safety and performance.
Lacroix's Bombette submarine signalling device was designed more than 30 years ago and is only compatible with Naval Group-designed submarines, which are operated by the French Navy and export customers, including the navies of Brazil, India, and Malaysia.
Pyrotechnic signals are used by submarines when submerged as a means of identification and signalling that is visible to aircraft and other surface vessels. They can also be used to transmit, via a preset code, information on submarine manoeuvring or a distress signal.
The device comes in three types of signals: coloured stars (either red, yellow, or green); coloured smoke (red or green – for day use only); and white smoke with a yellow flame (for day and night use).
Louis Boulle, naval product manager for Lacroix, said development of the new-generation submarine signalling device is being carried out under a contract awarded by the Direction Générale de l'Armement (DGA) in 2023 and incorporates feedback from the French Navy and export customers.
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