Thyssenkrupp’s IDAS System: German Navy's Answer to Modern Submarine Threats.

According to information published by ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems on January 23, 2025, The Bundeswehr has commissioned thyssenkrupp Marine Systems, in collaboration with Diehl Defence, to develop the Interactive Defence and Attack System for Submarines (IDAS). This innovative missile system is set to transform submarine defense by providing an active self-defense capability against airborne threats while the vessel remains submerged.
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Revolutionizing submarine defense: the IDAS system enables submerged vessels to counter airborne threats with precision-guided missiles. (Picture source: Diehl Defence)

Developed under the auspices of the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology, and In-Service Support (BAAINBw), the IDAS system represents a significant leap in submarine survivability. Unlike traditional evasion tactics that rely on diving deeper or utilizing environmental conditions, IDAS allows submarines to counter threats actively, even in shallow or coastal waters where maneuvering space is restricted. The ability to engage Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) helicopters armed with dipping sonar and lightweight torpedoes offers a critical advantage in modern maritime operations.

The IDAS system is designed to maintain the submarine's stealth and operational security. Submarines can launch the missile from beneath the surface without exposing sensors or surfacing, ensuring minimal detection risk. Once launched, the missile ascends toward the surface, maneuvers toward its target, and accelerates to cruising speed. A real-time optical fiber link transmits imagery from the missile’s onboard imaging infrared (IIR) seeker to the operator, enabling precise control and target adjustments during flight. This "human-in-the-loop" control system ensures flexibility, allowing the operator to change targets or abort the mission as required.

Beyond its primary role in countering airborne threats, IDAS offers versatility in engaging surface targets or supporting special operations forces (SOF). Its potential inclusion of GPS or other satellite navigation systems could even enable precision strikes on land-based targets. Such multi-role capabilities highlight the system's adaptability to diverse operational scenarios.

The IDAS missile utilizes advanced technologies to achieve its objectives. Its solid-fuel propulsion system ensures efficient underwater trajectories and swift surface acceleration. The missile’s compact design, with wings and fins that deploy after ejection, allows it to be stored and launched from standard heavyweight torpedo tubes, simplifying integration into existing fleets. The accompanying ejection container, equipped with a self-contained thrust piston, facilitates smooth deployment with minimal impact on the submarine’s maneuverability.

The system has undergone rigorous testing to validate its performance and integration. Successful launches from German Navy Class 212A submarines demonstrated its capabilities in engaging airborne threats while maintaining operational stealth. Additional trials with the Royal Norwegian Navy further confirmed its reliability under various operational conditions. These milestones underline the IDAS system’s readiness for full-scale deployment and its potential to reshape submarine defense strategies.