Detailed Design Review for SEA 1442 Phase 3 Completed on Schedule

Working closely with the Defence Materiel Organisation, Thales has completed on schedule the Detailed Design Review for both Mission and Support Systems for project SEA 1442 Phase 3 Maritime Communications Modernisation.>> The project involves the introduction of an Internet Protocol (IP) based Maritime Tactical Wide Area Network (MTWAN) into the Royal Australian Navy, in support of the Australian Defence Forces Network Centric Warfare concept. The MTWAN will provide the foundation for future maritime communication systems integration and implementation.>> Thaless innovative solution involves an integrated Internet Protocol (IP) based digital environment, interfacing with the RANs existing analogue system. This approach provides future-proofing through the use of Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) components and reduces through life support costs.>> The MTWAN is scheduled to be installed on all eight ANZAC frigates, Australias four guided missile frigates (FFGs), as well as HMAS MANOORA, HMAS KANIMBLA and HMAS SUCCESS, with the first installation at the Fleet Network Centre scheduled in December 2008.>> Thales has broad experience not only with the RANs communications systems, but also with IP technologies on international naval platforms including Frances Scorpene submarine program, the Franco Italian Multi-Mission Frigate (FREMM) program, and the future UK CVF aircraft carrier.>> IP technology is the new standard for MTWANs among major navies, with an increasing implementation in voice systems. With SEA 1442 Phase 3, the RAN has achieved another major target against Milestone 1 Networked Maritime Task Group 2010 from the ADF NCW roadmap.