DCNS
anticipates future applications with its new SMX 26 submarine concept-ship
At
this year’s Euronaval show, DCNS unveiled its new concept-ship,
SMX 26, a small submarine designed for operation in very shallow waters,
in littoral zones not usually accessible for conventional submarine
operations.
SMX 26 can remain on the sea bed for long periods, continuously monitoring
its environment, before attacking its target with the appropriate assets.
Marie
Nicod, SMX-26 Naval Architect, gave us details on DCNS' new submarine
concept ship
during Euronaval 2012
Its shape
ensures precise, safe progress in very shallow waters, enabling operation
in water less than 15 m deep. Its two shaft-lines and its four steerable
and retractable azimuth thrusters give the SMX 26 extreme manoeuvrability
and the ability to remain in a stabilized position near the bottom or
just under the surface in swell.
SMX-26 deploying
combat divers
The
SMX 26’s capacity for long discreet surveillance is also noteworthy.
It is capable of ‘landing’ very quickly on all types of
sea bed thanks to a extendable wheeled ‘undercarriage’ system,
and lurking on the bottom, deploying hoses to the surface for air and
power. Its embedded and deployed sensors maintain a complete watch above
and below the surface.
SMX-26 on
the seabed
The SMX
26 can take rapid and effective action, including the deployment of
six special forces divers at depth or at the surface for catching targets
‘in the act’. It also has two mast-mounted weapon systems:
a 20 mm cannon for policing capability and missile launch container
for anti-aircraft self- defence. Its main offensive armament comprises
two heavyweight torpedoes and eight lightweight torpedoes with heavy
warheads.
