The modernization
is focused on the reorganizing the operations room, enhancing the combat
direction system, installing new sonar and an upgraded Sepa Mk 3 fire-control
system, improving the hydrophones and signal processing capacity, integrating
new electronic and communications systems, replacing the SST-4 torpedoes
with the AEG SUT 264 mod 3 systems, and a major overhaul of the propulsion
systems.
The upgrade is estimated to cost $312 million by the time it is complete
in 2022. However, only four of the six subs will be fully upgraded.
The two oldest vessels in the fleet, the Islay and Arica, are to be
retired by 2023. |