Optics11 signs agreement with Thales on fibre-optic towed array for RNLN Orka submarines

OptiArray is a thin-line towed array sonar using fibre-optics to measure acoustic, temperature, and pressure signals. ( Richard Scott/NAVYPIX )

Dutch small or medium enterprise Optics11 has signed an agreement with Thales covering the exploitation of the company's OptiArray technology for the Royal Netherlands Navy's (RNLN's) next generation of conventional submarines.

Under the terms of the strategic partnership, signed at the NEDS 2024 exhibition in Rotterdam on 21 November, Optics11 plans to develop and deliver a compact fibre-optic sensing towed array into the Thales sonar suite that will equip the new boats.

Naval Group was awarded a EUR5.6 billion (USD5.24 billion) contract on 30 September 2024 by the Netherlands Ministry of Defence's Materiel and IT Command for the delivery of four conventionally powered Black Sword Barracuda submarines to meet the RNLN's Walrus-class replacement requirement. The boats – to be named Orka, Zwaardvis,Barracuda, and Tijgerhaai – will be known as the Orka class in RNLN service.

Optics11 has developed OptiArray as a reelable, thin-line array using highly sensitive optical-fibre sensors to measure acoustic signals. A prototype array was trialled from the RNLN Walrus-class submarine HNLMS Dolfjin in late 2023.

In a statement, Optics11 said the integration of OptiArray will “enhance underwater detection and tracking capabilities, providing unparalleled performance in submarine operations”. It added that the project “is expected to create significant value for the Dutch economy, fostering innovation, employment, and the development of critical knowledge and skills”.

For more information, please see Orka (Blacksword Barracuda) class (SSK).