Known
as KRS (KMY Replacement System), this will replace the currently installed
analogue KMY communications system, with a fully digital solution, and
will serve the Type 23 platform until replaced by the Type 26 frigate.
KRS is phase 1 of the fleet-wide ‘Project Calliope’, which
will progressively update the majority of terrestrial communications
systems fitted across the Royal Navy surface fleet and also some Royal
Fleet Auxiliary platforms.
Thales is the main supplier of communications systems for the Royal
Navy, and the award of Calliope phase 1 allows further convergence of
communications systems across the platforms, thereby reducing the training
and support burden and enabling effective and competitive long term
support through economies of
scale.
Speaking about the contract award, Carolyn Bellars, the MoD’s
Defence Equipment & Support Maritime Combat Systems Communications
and Situational Awareness Team Leader said: “I am pleased
to be awarding the KRS Contract to Thales - their design offers a compelling
solution providing value for money through life. KRS represents a significant
improvement in technology terms and the Thales solution brings things
right up to date.”
Ship fits are expected to commence in Spring 2017 and the contract includes
five years of support on an availability basis. Forty naval Forces have
chosen Thales to equip their platforms with internal or external communications
systems. |
