Chelsea Technologies Group is to develop and supply the oceanographic sensor system for HMS Audacious, the fourth Royal Navy Astute class submarine. The oceanographic sensors are designed to provide improved situational awareness and enhanced knowledge of the ocean environment. The robust, high-precision sensors incorporate novel built in test technologies to extend calibration intervals and decrease maintenance costs.
The system combines the outboard oceanographic sensors with the expendable bathythermograph system and acoustic modelling tools to provide an integrated environmental suite. The system, together with a shore-based facility, will be delivered in 2010. Industry collaborators include Ultra Electronics and Lockheed Martin.
Chelsea's facility in the UK has previously delivered oceanographic systems for the first three Astute class submarines.